FortiClient (VPN Only) runs on startup but is not on startup menu (Win11)

VPN
1

Hi everyone,

I’ll start by admitting that this is a bit awkward but I’m stumped.

I’m a Junior IT performing helpdesk and low-mid level IT tasks - essentially, I’m an outsourced IT guy for a small organization.

I use FortiClient VPN only to connect to our work network, as many do, but I noticed that on startup, FortiClient starts automatically.

Since I’m the type to turn off everything not essential to normal work, I went to turn it off on my startup menu in WIN11 - only it’s not there. Went into the program’s options - no such option. Googled it - can’t find anything related to my client edition that’s not a bunch of PS scripting wizardry.

I don’t mind getting into the nitty gritty of Registry values, but frankly it’s not that big of a deal and I can’t be bothered.

Anyone know where the hecc that blasted option is?

TL;DR - can’t disable FortiClient VPN from running on startup, either from program or Win11 settings.

I’m probably overlooking something, but I’d appreciate a pointer or two.

2

run > shell:startup see if a shortcut of FCT exist if yes then delete

3

Are you checking the auto-start menu in task manager, or the Start-Up folder inside the start menu?

4

Try to check Task Scheduler.

5

Did you ever get this figured out? Im very curious to also disable it

6

Can you let us know if you figured this out? I have the same issue and can’t figure out how it auto-starts with the PC everytime…

7

To disable: System Configuration → Services → FortiClient VPN Service Scheduler → Uncheck → Apply. For me it worked.

8

Had the same issue. Annoying they don’t have an option in their configuration. Thanks to the suggestions below, I was able to think of a solution.

Right click on your Windows start button > click “Run” > type “services.msc” > click “OK” > find “FortiClient VPN Service Scheduler” > double-click to go to properties > select “Manual” under “Startup type” > select “OK”.

9

Bon j’ai lu tous les commentaires, car je dois l’utiliser pour le boulot, mais je constate qu’on peut pas l’enlever !!! Au fait je pense que c’est fait exprès, car FORTICLIENT analyse le PC souvent quand il est activé, du coup cela protège mieux l’entreprise ( en général qui travaillent beaucoup avec le publique :slight_smile: ) Conclusion : Faut pas oublier de le désactiver à chaque démarrage !

10

Are you connected to an EMS server? There may be config preventing this.

11

Will check it out - Thanks!

12

I think I found it! Thanks for the great advice!

Also looked over SysInternals and frankly can’t believe I haven’t gotten it earlier. Also got it on my personal PC.

Priceless stuff there.

13

Ain’t it, but good idea, thanks!

14

Both, as well as the Settings app.

Nada, unfortunately.

15

Thanks! I actually forgor about it, but unfortunately it wasn’t there.

Managed to clean up some OneDrive tasks that somehow made their home there, for some unknown, eldritch, Microsoftian reasons.

16

Nope.

Fortinet VPN is now part of the family and is raising my kids.

17

You can disable the service (tsk mgr > services), but it breaks the installation :expressionless:

18

Had the same problem, and found a solution: Right click on your Windows start button > click “Run” > type “services.msc” > click “OK” > find “FortiClient VPN Service Scheduler” > double-click to go to properties > select “Manual” under “Startup type” > select “OK”.

19

This works, but when i open the app back, it doesn’t even connect with the server. And i cannot start the VPN service from that list anymore

20

that worked , thank you so much!!