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To upgrade to a "full" version of FortiClient that includes additional features (like AntiVirus, Web Filtering, and Application Firewall) and technical support, you must transition from the standalone free VPN client licensed edition managed by FortiClient Endpoint Management Server (EMS) While the basic VPN client is free, there is no 100% free "full" version that includes technical support; phone and ticket support from are strictly reserved for paid license holders Upgrade Path Guide 1. Determine Your Licensing Needs The "full features" you see advertised in the free client are unlocked via specific licensing tiers: ZTNA Edition: Includes Zero Trust Network Access, VPN, and Vulnerability Scanning. EPP/APT Edition: Adds AI-based AntiVirus (NGAV), Sandbox integration, Ransomware protection, and Application Firewall. Router-Switch.com 2. Obtain a License (The Only Way to Get Support) To receive official 24x7 technical support (TAC), you must purchase a subscription through a Fortinet Sales Representative or authorized partner. Trial Option: You can enable a free trial license by installing FortiClient EMS . This trial typically allows you to manage up to 3 endpoints indefinitely with full ZTNA/AV features but does not include official technical support (support is limited to community forums). Fortinet Document Library 3. Installation & Activation Steps Once you have a license or have set up an EMS trial: VPN Client Full Featured vs. VPN Only - Fortinet Community 26 Nov 2019 — 1. There is the full featured FortiClient: keeps bugging the users for the Telemetry registration. If registered to an EMS server, Fortinet Product Downloads | Support
Unlocking the Power of FortiClient: How to Upgrade to the Full Free Version for Advanced Features and Technical Support In the modern landscape of remote work, BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), and sophisticated cyber threats, having a robust security solution on your endpoint is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. FortiClient, developed by cybersecurity giant Fortinet, is widely recognized as one of the most powerful endpoint protection platforms available. However, many users are only familiar with the basic "FortiClient VPN only" version. What most users don’t realize is that they are sitting on a goldmine of security features. By initiating a FortiClient upgrade to the full free version , you can unlock enterprise-grade security tools, advanced telemetry, and—most importantly—access to technical support. This article will walk you through everything you need to know: the differences between the versions, why you need the upgrade, how to perform it step-by-step, and what features you gain once you complete the transition. Understanding the FortiClient Ecosystem: VPN Only vs. Full Free Version Before diving into the upgrade process, it is crucial to understand what you are currently running. Fortinet distributes FortiClient in three primary editions:
FortiClient VPN Only (Free): This is the lightweight version. It allows SSL and IPsec VPN connectivity to a FortiGate firewall. It has no real-time antivirus, no web filtering, and no support. FortiClient Full Free Version (Endpoint Protection): This is the subject of our upgrade. It includes anti-malware, anti-virus, web filtering, vulnerability scanning, and application firewall capabilities. FortiClient EMS (Enterprise Managed): This is the paid, centrally managed version for businesses.
The confusion often arises because Fortinet does not pre-install the "Full Free Version." By default, even if you download the installer from the website, you might land in "VPN Only" mode. You must actively perform the FortiClient upgrade via the interface to activate the free endpoint protection features. Why Upgrade? The Critical Features You Are Missing If you are currently using FortiClient just to connect to your office network, you are missing 90% of the software's value. Here is what you gain when you upgrade to the full free version: 1. Real-Time Antivirus & Anti-Malware The VPN-only version offers zero protection against malicious files. The full version includes Fortinet’s acclaimed AI-based antivirus engine. It scans files in real-time as they are downloaded, copied, or executed. You also gain scheduled scanning for deep sweeps of your hard drive. 2. Web Filtering & Safe Search One of the biggest threats to home users is malicious websites (phishing or drive-by downloads). The full version blocks access to known malicious URLs. Furthermore, it enforces "Safe Search" on Google, Bing, and YouTube, filtering out adult content—essential for families with children. 3. Vulnerability Scan This is a hidden gem. The full free version scans your operating system and installed software (like Adobe Reader, Java, or Chrome) for known CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures). It will tell you exactly which updates you need to install to patch security holes. 4. Application Firewall Unlike a traditional network firewall, this monitors application behavior. It can block unwanted applications (like P2P torrent software) from accessing the network or prevent a compromised legitimate app from "phoning home" to a command-and-control server. 5. Technical Support Access Perhaps the most compelling reason to perform the FortiClient upgrade to the full free version is the access to technical support. The VPN-only version offers no support ticket system. The full free version allows you to generate a "Support Bundle" and submit tickets to Fortinet’s support portal for troubleshooting installation errors, connectivity bugs, or configuration issues. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perform the FortiClient Upgrade Ready to unlock these features? Follow this guide carefully. Note: You do not need to uninstall the VPN client; you just need to "activate" the full suite. Prerequisites To upgrade to a "full" version of FortiClient
An active internet connection. Administrator rights on your Windows or Mac computer. The existing FortiClient VPN software installed (Version 6.0 or higher recommended; 7.0+ preferred).
Step 1: Locate the "Upgrade" Button Open FortiClient. Look at the left-hand navigation menu. In the VPN-only version, many icons (like "AntiVirus," "Web Filter," and "Vulnerability Scan") will be greyed out or have a lock icon. At the very bottom left of the dashboard, you should see a banner or a button labeled "Upgrade to Full Protection" or "Get Full Features." Step 2: Initiate the Upgrade Click the Upgrade button. A prompt will appear explaining that you are moving from the "VPN Only" license to the "Free Endpoint Protection" license.
Note: Fortinet does not ask for a credit card. This is a true free upgrade. You may be asked to agree to an End User License Agreement (EULA) for the additional security modules. Router-Switch
Step 3: Allow the Feature Download The application will now download the necessary signature databases. This is typically a 50MB to 150MB download. The process involves:
Downloading the AntiVirus engine definitions. Downloading the Web Filtering URL database. Activating the Vulnerability Scan engine.
Step 4: Restart the Service (or Reboot) Once the download completes, FortiClient will likely ask you to restart the application or reboot your PC. Do this immediately. Upon reboot, the FortiClient tray icon may look slightly different (often turning from red to orange or blue, depending on your version). Step 5: Verify the Upgrade (Post-Upgrade Check) After rebooting, open FortiClient again. Navigate to the Dashboard or About section. This trial typically allows you to manage up
Look for the license type. It should now read "Free Endpoint Protection" or "Full Version." Check the left sidebar. Every icon (Antivirus, Web Filter, Vulnerability, Application Firewall) should now be colored and clickable.
How to Register for Technical Support Once you complete the FortiClient upgrade to the full free version , you may still need to register to actually receive technical support. Important distinction: The "Full Free Version" gives you access to Fortinet’s Community Support and Limited Email Support . For mission-critical phone support, you would need an EMS license, but the full free version allows you to submit a ticket via the Fortinet Support Portal. To Register: