Additional Information

Security suite, designed for PCs, laptops, tablets and mobile devices

Latest Version FortiClient 7.4
Requirements

Windows 7 64/Windows 8 64/Windows 10 64/Windows 11

Updated November 29, 2024
Author Fortinet
Category Firewalls and Security
License Freeware
Language English
Download 22

Overview

FortiClient is a free, enterprise-class endpoint security solution developed by Fortinet. It combines advanced malware protection, secure VPN connectivity, web filtering, and compliance enforcement into a single lightweight client—making it suitable for both individual users and large organizations.

Built on Fortinet’s award-winning security technologies, FortiClient is widely used in corporate, government, and high-security environments that require reliable and centrally managed endpoint protection.

What Is FortiClient?

FortiClient is an endpoint protection and secure access client that safeguards devices against malware, unauthorized access, and unsafe web content. It also provides secure remote connectivity through SSL VPN and IPsec VPN, allowing users to safely access private networks from anywhere.

Unlike basic antivirus tools, FortiClient is designed as part of a broader security ecosystem, integrating seamlessly with other Fortinet products.

Advanced Antivirus and Malware Protection

At the core of FortiClient is Fortinet’s in-house Antivirus engine, powered by threat intelligence from FortiGuard Labs. This technology has earned multiple VB100 awards, reflecting its effectiveness in real-world threat detection.

FortiClient protects systems through:

  • Signature-based detection for known threats

  • Proactive detection for zero-day malware

  • Rootkit and exploit prevention

  • Continuous definition updates

This layered approach helps defend against both common and emerging cyber threats.

Secure VPN for Remote Access

FortiClient includes robust VPN capabilities that make remote work safer and easier:

  • SSL VPN for secure, user-friendly remote access

  • IPsec VPN for high-performance encrypted connections

  • Auto VPN activation when connecting to trusted networks

  • Support for two-factor authentication (2FA)

With a single VPN configuration, users can quickly establish secure connections without complex setup.

Web Filtering and Parental Controls

FortiClient offers web filtering and parental control features that help block:

  • Malicious websites

  • Phishing pages

  • Explicit or inappropriate content

These controls are especially useful in educational, family, and enterprise environments where safe browsing is essential.

Enterprise Integration and Centralized Management

FortiClient is designed to scale across large organizations and integrates tightly with other Fortinet solutions:

  • FortiGate – for policy enforcement and VPN access

  • FortiManager – for centralized configuration and deployment

  • FortiAnalyzer – for logging, reporting, and threat analysis

This integration enables centralized visibility, compliance enforcement, and security automation across thousands of endpoints.

Security Fabric Telemetry and Compliance

FortiClient participates in Fortinet’s Security Fabric, sharing real-time telemetry with network security devices. This allows organizations to:

  • Detect compromised endpoints

  • Enforce security compliance

  • Automatically isolate risky devices

  • Perform vulnerability scans

Such capabilities go far beyond traditional antivirus software.

Key Features at a Glance

  • Antivirus and anti-exploit protection

  • SSL VPN and IPsec VPN

  • Web filtering and application firewall

  • Vulnerability scanning

  • Two-factor authentication support

  • WAN optimization

  • Compliance enforcement

  • Endpoint telemetry and reporting

  • Custom branding (enterprise editions)

Who Should Use FortiClient?

FortiClient is ideal for:

  • Enterprises with Fortinet infrastructure

  • Remote and hybrid workforces

  • IT teams needing centralized endpoint control

  • Organizations requiring compliance enforcement

  • Advanced home users seeking secure VPN and malware protection

Even the free version provides strong protection and secure connectivity for everyday use.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Free version available

  • Strong antivirus with zero-day protection

  • Secure VPN included

  • Enterprise-grade features

  • Tight integration with Fortinet ecosystem

Cons

  • Best experience requires Fortinet hardware

  • Interface may feel complex for casual users

  • Some advanced features are enterprise-focused

Previous versions More »

7.4 November 29, 2024 4.2 MB 7.2 November 29, 2023 4 MB 7.0 November 27, 2023 4 MB 6.0 November 26, 2023 4 MB

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