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How to Download the FortiClient Offline Installer: A Complete Technical Guide

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In the world of enterprise security, the FortiClient endpoint agent is a cornerstone for VPN connectivity and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA). However, many users and IT administrators find themselves frustrated by the "online installer"—a small "stub" file that requires an active internet connection to download the full software during installation.

For systems with restricted internet access, air-gapped environments, or large-scale deployments, an offline installer (standalone setup) is essential. This guide outlines the official and technical methods to acquire the full FortiClient offline installer for Windows and macOS.

1. The Official Method: Using the Fortinet Support Portal

The most reliable and secure way to obtain a full offline installer is through the official Fortinet Support Portal. This method is primarily available to customers with a registered Fortinet product or an active support contract.

Steps to Download:

  1. Log In: Visit the Fortinet Support Portal and sign in with your credentials.
  2. Navigate to Firmware: Go to the top menu and select Support > Firmware Download.
  3. Select Product: From the product list, select FortiClient.
  4. Browse Versions: Click on the Download tab. You will see a folder structure categorized by operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux) and version numbers (e.g., v7.00, v7.4).
  5. Choose the Full Installer:
  6. For Windows, look for files ending in .exe or .zip that are significantly larger (typically 50MB–100MB+) compared to the 3MB online stub.
  7. If you only need VPN capabilities, look for the VPN-only installers specifically labeled in the directory.
  1. Download via HTTPS: Click the HTTPS link next to the file to begin the download.

2. The "Temp File" Extraction Hack (For Free VPN Users)

If you do not have a support account and are using the free VPN-only version, Fortinet typically only provides an online installer. However, you can "trick" the installer into giving you the offline file.

How to Extract the Offline Setup:

  1. Run the Online Installer: Start the FortiClientVPNOnlineInstaller.exe file.
  2. Wait for the Download: Let the installer download the full package. Stop once it reaches the "License Agreement" or "Ready to Install" screen. Do not click "Install" yet.
  3. Locate the Cached File:
  4. On Windows: Press Win + R, type %AppData%\Local\Temp\, and look for a folder or file named FortiClientVPN.exe or a similar variation.
  5. Alternative Path: Check C:\ProgramData\Applications\Cache.
  1. Copy the File: Copy this file to your desktop or a USB drive. This is your standalone offline installer.
  2. Cancel the Original Setup: You can now close the online installer.

3. Administrator Tips: Extracting the MSI for Deployment

System administrators often require the .msi file for deployment via Group Policy (GPO), Intune, or SCCM.

  • MSI Location: When the online installer is running, the MSI is often unpacked to C:\ProgramData\Applications\Cache.
  • Version Note: As of FortiClient 7.0.x and later, Fortinet has tightened access to standalone MSIs, often requiring them to be generated through the FortiClient EMS (Endpoint Management Server) console for managed environments.

4. Safety Warning: Avoid Third-Party Mirrors

Never download security software from unofficial third-party websites. Using an unverified .exe for a VPN could expose your network to "Man-in-the-Middle" attacks or malware. Always use the extraction method from the official installer if the support portal is inaccessible.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the FortiClient download so small?

The file you likely downloaded from the public Fortinet website is a "stub installer." It is designed to download the latest components in real-time. To get the full version, you must use the extraction method or the Support Portal mentioned above.

Can I get an offline installer for older versions (like 6.4 or 7.0)?

Yes, but these are now restricted. Fortinet recently moved older versions (v7.0.x and below) behind the support login. You will need a registered account to access the firmware archive for legacy versions.

Does the offline installer include the VPN-only version?

Yes. On the Support Portal, there are separate installers for the "Full Security Suite" and the "VPN-only" client. Ensure you select the one that matches your license.

Why does my download fail in the Support Portal?

Browser pop-up blockers often interfere with Fortinet's download triggers. If the download doesn't start, ensure you have allowed pop-ups for support.fortinet.com.

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