A: The FortiGate VM will stop processing traffic. You can renew the license and upload a new .lic file to restore functionality. Configuration is preserved, but the device will not forward packets.
Click and extract the contents to your management workstation. 4. Deploying the VM and Uploading the License
Once the asset is located, the act of "downloading" the license is often a matter of registration and retrieval. If the VM was purchased through a channel partner, the license entitlement must be transferred to the end-user’s account. Upon acceptance, the portal generates a license file (usually in .lic or .txt format). This file is the digital key that unlocks the security features—Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), Antivirus, Web Filtering, and SSL VPN capabilities—that define the FortiGate value proposition. Without this specific file, the VM reverts to a "null" license state post-evaluation, essentially becoming an expensive, stateful packet inspector with no deep inspection capabilities. Fortigate Vm License Download
Before you can apply a license, you must download the FortiGate VM virtual appliance files. The official method requires a Fortinet Support account.
Enter the required user and deployment details. For certain subscription models (S-series), you may need to choose between Register (for a new serial number) or Renew (to extend an existing one). A: The FortiGate VM will stop processing traffic
To activate a commercial or official evaluation FortiGate VM, you must obtain a .lic (license) file from the Fortinet Customer Service & Support portal. Follow these step-by-step instructions: Step 1: Purchase the License or Request an Evaluation
file you downloaded in Step 1. The VM will automatically reboot to apply the license. For Free Evaluation Licenses (FortiOS 7.2.1+): Click and extract the contents to your management
Go to > Status > Virtual Machine widget to confirm the license status is "Valid". Key Considerations
Enter your 25-character into the field and click Next .
Check your Asset Management > Product List to ensure the serial number shows up under your specific account login. If it is missing, try re-registering the code or contact Fortinet Customer Support with your PDF contract order details. Issue 3: FortiGate VM Enters "Evaluation Mode" Unexpectedly
If your subscription license expires and passes the grace period, the FortiGate-VM stops processing traffic and may restrict GUI access. However, your configuration remains intact. Obtain a renewal license and upload it via CLI using the execute restore manual-license command to restore access.