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Prerequisites

Before you start, make sure you :

1. Have an up-to-date FortiClient installed on your Windows 11 PC.
2. Your VPN credentials (username and password supplied by your company).
3. Know the VPN server address (provided by your administrator).
4. Have the VPN configuration file available if your company provides an import file (optional).

Manual configuration of IPSec VPN

Step 1: Open FortiClient

1. Click on the Start menu.
2. Search for FortiClient and open the application.

Step 2: Access the VPN section

1. In FortiClient, click on the 3 horizontal lines.
2. Click on Add a new connection.

Step 3: Fill in VPN information

?? If some advanced fields are not provided by the company, leave the default values.

Step 4: Save configuration

1. Click on Save.
2. The VPN connection now appears in the list of available connections.

Step 5: Connect to the VPN

1. Select your VPN connection.
2. Click on Connect.
3. Enter your password if requested. Your company may have a two-factor authentication system that you’ll need to go through.
4. A notification will confirm that the VPN is active.

Configuration by importing a VPN file

Step 1: Get the configuration file

• The file is usually supplied by the IT team with an extension such as .fctvpn or .xml.

Step 2: Import the file

1. In FortiClient, go to Settings.
2. Click on Restore (in System).
3. Select the supplied file.
4. Check that the connection appears in the list.

Step 3: Login

1. Select the imported connection.
2. Click on Connect.
3. Enter your password if necessary.
4. The VPN connection is now active.

Tips and best practices

• Always use the latest version of FortiClient.
• Never share your VPN password.
• Disconnect from the VPN when you no longer need it.
• If the VPN does not work :
  • Check your Internet connection.
  • Check your login details.
  • Contact IT support with the exact error message.