FortiClient

FortiClient is a set of software tools from Fortinet that serve to ensure the security of the computer and its network connections. Depending on the edition, the complex includes a VPN client, zero trust network access (ZTNA), a vulnerability scanner, antivirus, anti-ransomware protection, web filtering and an application firewall. We will tell you about each of these components separately.

Anti-virus and anti-exploit components, available in the licensed endpoint protection editions, protect your computer against viruses, spyware, Trojans, ransomware and other malware with AI-based detection and cloud sandbox analysis. The vulnerability scanner checks the operating system and installed applications for known vulnerabilities. The VPN client allows you to connect to corporate applications through SSL VPN or IPsec tunnels to a FortiGate firewall, with multi-factor authentication support. In licensed editions, web filtering and the application firewall control which sites and applications can be used.

There are no claims to the program interface. The graphic shell is clear, and each FortiClient component, such as Compliance, Remote Access or Vulnerability Scan, has a separate section in the main window, where you can find its settings and status. In companies, FortiClient is usually managed centrally through FortiClient EMS or FortiClient Cloud, which push security policies and collect telemetry. Here the reader will most likely have a question: can FortiClient replace an anti-virus program? The free edition cannot, because it does not include real-time malware protection. Home users can download the free FortiClient VPN edition, which provides remote access VPN, while the full endpoint protection features require a paid licence. The program is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android.

FortiClient gives free, secure VPN access to FortiGate-protected networks, while licensed editions add malware protection and web filtering.