FortiClient VPN-Only Mode: Lightweight Secure Access for Remote Employees

As remote and hybrid work becomes increasingly prevalent, IT teams face the challenge of providing secure, yet lightweight, remote access for employees, contractors, and third-party vendors. Fortinet addresses this need with the FortiClient VPN-only application—a free, lightweight client designed to enable secure VPN connectivity without requiring the full security suite.

Table of Contents:

• Part 1: Understanding FortiClient VPN-Only Mode
• Part 2: Typical Use Cases for VPN-Only
• Part 3: Installation and Configuration
• Part 4: Best Practices for Lightweight VPN Access
• Part 5: Deployment Considerations
• Part 6: Router-switch Advantage
• Part 7: Conclusion
• FAQ

Part 1: Understanding FortiClient VPN-Only Mode

This section explains the different FortiClient editions and the specific purpose of the VPN-only client.

FortiClient comes in two main editions:

• FortiClient VPN-only: a standalone, free client providing SSL and IPsec VPN access, ideal for personal devices, contractors, or small deployments.
• Full FortiClient Fabric Agent (ZTNA/EPP/APT licensed editions): a comprehensive security suite with Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), antivirus, web filtering, vulnerability scanning, and centralized management via FortiClient EMS.

Key Features of VPN-Only Mode

The VPN-only client provides basic secure access without advanced security features:

• Protocol Support: SSL VPN and IPsec VPN ("Tunnel Mode")
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Supports FortiToken and client certificates
• Endpoint Management: No registration to FortiClient EMS required
• Lightweight Installation: Minimal system footprint across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android

In summary, VPN-only mode enables lightweight remote connectivity while omitting advanced security modules.

Part 2: Typical Use Cases for VPN-Only Mode

The VPN-only client is optimal when simplicity, cost-efficiency, and minimal intrusion are priorities.

Remote Employees Using Personal Devices (BYOD)

Employees who occasionally need access to internal resources can securely connect without installing full security agents.

Vendors and Third-Party Contractors

Authorized vendors requiring temporary access to segmented resources can minimize security footprint while ensuring traffic is protected through FortiGate firewalls.

Educational Institutions and Labs

Universities and research labs can allow students and staff to securely access hosted resources off-campus.

Part 3: Installation and Configuration

The FortiClient VPN-only client is straightforward to install and configure across supported platforms.

Step 1: Download

Access the official Fortinet download page:

https://www.fortinet.com/support/product-downloads#vpn

Select the installer under the “FortiClient VPN” section. Do not select ZTNA or EPP/APT editions unless full endpoint security is required.

Step 2: Install

• Run the installer and accept the license agreement
• Windows: Choose "VPN Only"
• macOS: Drag FortiClient to Applications
• Mobile (iOS/Android): Install via App Store or Google Play

Step 3: Configure VPN

1. Open FortiClient → Click Configure VPN
2. Select SSL VPN or IPsec VPN
3. Enter the Remote Gateway (FortiGate IP or hostname)
4. Optional: Customize the port if required
5. Set authentication (prompt on login or client certificate)
6. Connect and complete 2FA (if configured)

In summary, installation is straightforward across platforms, and VPN-only mode supports SSL and IPsec connections, with IKEv2 required for recent versions.

Part 4: Best Practices for Lightweight VPN Access

Even without full endpoint control, you can enhance security by following these best practices:

• Split Tunneling: Route only traffic destined for corporate networks through VPN to optimize performance.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enforce 2FA using FortiToken or client certificates.
• Certificate-Based Authentication: Combine with IPsec IKEv2 for secure logins without full client deployment.

In summary, these practices strengthen security without adding management complexity.

Part 5: Deployment Considerations

While the VPN-only client is easy to use, medium and large organizations may face challenges:

• Manual Deployment: Lack of MSI installer or EMS integration requires manual configuration.
• Limited Automation: Tools like GPO cannot centrally deploy VPN-only clients.
• Monitoring and Updates: Free client lacks technical support; administrators must monitor Fortinet advisories.

In summary, enterprises needing centralized management or Zero Trust should consider full FortiClient EMS solutions.

Part 6: Router-switch Advantage

Whether your organization chooses the lightweight FortiClient VPN-only client or the enterprise-grade EMS-managed solution, timely procurement and technical guidance are critical.

• Global Inventory: Fortinet hardware ready for deployment
• Multi-Brand Procurement: Integrate Fortinet with other network components
• Rapid Quotation and Technical Guidance: Expert support for planning lightweight or enterprise-scale deployments

In summary, Router-switch simplifies procurement and planning for both small and large VPN deployments.

Part 7: Conclusion

The FortiClient VPN-only mode provides free, lightweight, and secure remote access for personal devices, contractors, and educational environments. SSL and IPsec VPN are supported while keeping administrative overhead minimal. Enterprises requiring centralized management, automated deployment, and endpoint compliance should use the full FortiClient EMS-managed solution.

Next steps: Evaluate your FortiGate infrastructure and VPN requirements, and leverage Router-switch for expert guidance and multi-brand procurement.

FAQ

What is the difference between FortiClient VPN-only and the full FortiClient?

VPN-only is a free client providing SSL/IPsec VPN access without advanced security features. Full FortiClient (ZTNA/EPP/APT) is licensed, integrates with EMS, and includes ZTNA, antivirus, web filtering, and endpoint compliance.

Which scenarios are best for VPN-only mode?

Personal devices (BYOD), contractors, vendors, and educational institutions needing limited, secure access.

Does VPN-only support SSL VPN and IPsec VPN?

Yes, both protocols are supported. IKEv1 is deprecated; use IKEv2 for IPsec VPN in recent versions.

Can VPN-only clients be centrally managed?

No. EMS integration requires the full licensed FortiClient agent.

How to secure VPN-only connections?

Implement split tunneling, enforce 2FA with FortiToken, and consider certificate-based authentication.

Is FortiClient VPN-only suitable for enterprise deployments?

It works for small-scale access or temporary users, but enterprises needing compliance, automated deployment, and Zero Trust should use full FortiClient EMS solutions.