FortiClient

Secure VPN and web filtering with enterprise controls

FortiClient focuses on safe remote access, pairing encrypted VPN connectivity with policy-driven web protection and tight integration across the Fortinet ecosystem. It builds IPSec or SSL tunnels to FortiGate, keeping traffic inside an encrypted channel that organizations can monitor and manage centrally.

Both VPN modes are well covered. IPsec profiles can be created locally or provisioned by administrators through FortiClient EMS, with support for IKE main and aggressive modes, X.509 certificates and pre-shared keys. You can enable persistent sessions and auto-connect, or turn off auto-start if you prefer on-demand access. SSL VPN is available in tunnel mode, also with client and server certificate support, and the same options for continuous connection and automatic reconnect.

Beyond secure tunneling, a built-in web security component lets admins allow or block categories based on FortiGuard ratings, and track browsing policy violations. When registered with EMS, the app becomes part of a managed environment. Administrators can push VPN configurations, distribute web filtering profiles, deploy CA certificates, and even prevent users from disconnecting from EMS. Integration with FortiGate, FortiManager, and FortiAnalyzer provides unified control and centralized logging. EMS further streamlines deployment, registration, and ongoing oversight across endpoints.

There are trade-offs. While you get comprehensive security and versatile features, full functionality hinges on EMS registration. The app offers a three-day grace period of free VPN use to facilitate that step, but long-term use is clearly geared toward managed environments. That makes FortiClient a strong pick for organizations standardizing on Fortinet tools, and a less compelling option for casual users seeking a standalone free VPN.

Compatibility spans Android 6.0 through Android 14, which covers most current devices. Overall, FortiClient delivers robust encrypted access plus enforceable web policies, with the greatest value unlocked when paired with centralized management.