FortiClient is a new free antivirus / internet security bundle that includes a ton of modules. They are a free antivirus and antispyware engine, a firewall, antispam functionality, a VPN client, and a content filter. This software is intended for the experienced to advanced computer user.

Installation:

    FortiClient was by far one of the worst installations experiences I have had with an antivirus program. The installation takes probably about 20 minutes because the program has to optimize itself. I found this very interesting because the antivirus was only 10 megabytes to download. The software also prompts if you want to install the free edition or the paid edition. This option can be changed at anytime. It seems like the full version's only difference is the inclusion of a Spam Filter.

Software Notes and Features:

    FortiClient includes a free real time scanning engine. This is in contrast to other free antivirus that have virus detection only. The FortiClient software seems to be intended to be used on a network with a FortiGate server. However, this is not necessary to have and runs great in standalone operation. FortiClient also supports free content filtering in which a user can set up a password and block access to potentially harmful sites.  The predefined filters are very comprehensive.  The software also has a separate installer for Windows 64 bit. This is in contrast to other antivirus and firewall software that only include 32 bit installers.

Usage Testing:

    Once FortiClient antivirus starts, the program immediately starts prompting the user about program firewall access.  A user will need to analyze the program accessing the internet and then allow or disallow the connection. The option can also be remembered for usage next time . This is the old school method of controlling firewalls in that it doesn’t come with pre configured rules like Avast Internet Security for Internet Explorer and Firefox.  In addition, the menus are kind of archaic like old windows 98 menus.

    FortiClient not only includes an antivirus but also an antispyware engine. In addition, the software updates every 49 minutes to check for the latest viruses. I don’t know how to convey this but this software is one of the best deals in the free antivirus industry. For example, free AVG will only check for virus signature updates once every day and doesn’t include dedicated antispyware functionality.

Antivirus Scanning:

    The FortiClient scanning process reminds me of MacAfee’s scanning engine. The process is very slow even on a dual core computer. The scan seemed to take about two hours for a 160 gigabyte operating system drive. This is not a necessarily a disadvantage as FortiClient has received the VB100 and Westcoast labs virus detection awards indicating excellent virus detection; but be prepared to wait for a full scan. FortiClient also includes a quick scan feature which will save some time. FortiClient detected an adware on my computer that Malwarebytes or Prevx weren’t able to find. The software said access denied but appeared to delete the program.

Extra Features:

    FortiClient also includes a free VPN client to connect to work VPN’s. The software also includes a WAN optimizer which will optimize all computer traffic to the internet. This should improve a user’s whole browsing experience.

Conclusion and Download:

    FortiClient has the most features of any free antivirus or internet security program. The software is excellent for the advanced user but potentially frustrating for the novice user. Regardless, this program is a must download to secure any type of Windows computer.

Download FortiClient Here