How to configure FortiClient VPN Setup for iOS/iPadOS through MDM 

Description

This guide provides step-by-step instructions to configure FortiClient VPN on iOS/iPadOS devices using Mobile Device Manager Plus (MDM). It covers both the app distribution process and the VPN profile setup, ensuring secure and seamless VPN connectivity for managed devices.

Requirements

  • FortiClient VPN app available in the App Repository of MDM.
  • iOS/iPadOS devices enrolled and managed through MDM.
  • Proper VPN configuration details (Server name/IP, username, password, and port).

Steps to Configure FortiClient VPN in MDM Console:

Add FortiClient VPN App to MDM

  • Navigate to MDM Admin Console > Device Management > Manage > App Repository.
  • Search for 'FortiClient VPN'. Select the app and click Save.
    App Details: Bundle Identifier: com.fortinet.forticlient.vpn

Distribute FortiClient VPN App to Devices

  • Navigate to MDM Admin console> Device Management > Groups & Devices > Devices.
  • Select the target device. Click on Action > Distribute Apps.
  • Choose the FortiClient VPN app. Click Distribute to deploy the app to the selected device.

Create and Configure VPN Profile

  • Navigate to MDM > Device Management > Profiles > Create Profile > iOS/iPadOS Profiles > VPN.
  • Configure the VPN settings as follows:
    Connection Settings:
    • Connection Type: Custom SSL
    • Connection Name: VPN
    • App Name: FortiClient VPN
    • Plug-in Identifier: com.fortinet.forticlient.vpn
    • Server Name/IP Address: Enter the host name or IP address of the VPN server along with the port number.
    • Account: Use the correct VPN configuration username. Use %username% to automatically map the user name to the device.
    • User Authentication: Password
    • Password: Enter the correct password for user authentication.
    • Save, Publish, and Associate the profile with the target devices.

Configure the VPN on the iOS Device

After pushing the VPN profile, follow these steps on the device:

  • On the iOS device, open the Settings app.
  • Go to General > VPN & Device Management. Select VPN > Device VPN.
  • Choose the VPN configuration that was pushed via MDM.
  • Tap the 'i' button next to the VPN name to view the configuration.

Configure FortiClient VPN App on the Device

  • Open the FortiClient VPN app on the iOS device.
  • Select the connection and choose MDM VPN Gateway.
  • Choose the configured connection from the Settings app.
  • Go back and toggle the connection to ON.
  • If two-factor authentication (2FA) is enabled, you will be prompted for an OTP.
  • Enter the OTP and click OK to establish the VPN connection.

Notes:

  • Ensure the FortiClient VPN app is updated and working correctly on the device.
  • If using two-factor authentication, verify the OTP is correctly entered during the connection process.
  • Ensure the VPN profile on MDM is correctly associated with the target devices to avoid configuration errors.
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