Play Now

Fortigate Vm License Trial Install -

To install a FortiGate VM with a trial license, you first download the VM deployment package for your hypervisor from the Fortinet Support site

. After deploying the VM and configuring initial network access, you activate the permanent evaluation license by logging into the FortiGate GUI with your FortiCloud/FortiCare account credentials. Installation Steps Download the Image : Log in to the Fortinet Support site , navigate to Support > VM Images

, and download the deployment package for your hypervisor (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V, KVM). Deploy the VM

Extract the downloaded zip file and import the OVF or VHD file into your hypervisor. Power on the VM. Initial CLI Configuration Log in via the console using the default username (no password). Set a new password when prompted. Configure the IP address on to allow management access:

config system interface edit port1 set mode static set ip set allowaccess http https ssh end Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard

Ensure the VM has internet access and a DNS server configured to reach FortiGuard servers. Activate Trial License Access the web GUI via fortigate vm license trial install

The FortiGate virtual machine (VM) evaluation license transitioned to a permanent trial mode starting with FortiOS 7.2.1. Unlike the previous 15-day time-limited version, this trial is perpetual but restricted in terms of resources and features, primarily intended for lab testing and educational use. Evaluation License Limitations

The trial version imposes several hardware and software restrictions: Resources: Maximum of 1 CPU and 2 GB of RAM.

Networking: Limited to 3 interfaces, 3 firewall policies, and 3 static routes.

Encryption: Support for low encryption only, except for management access (GUI and FortiManager communications).

Virtual Domains (VDOMs): Maximum of 2 VDOMs (one must be administrative). To install a FortiGate VM with a trial

Services: No technical support, FortiCare, or FortiGuard services (such as signature updates) are included. Installation & Activation Process

The installation requires a free FortiCloud (FortiCare) account and an internet-connected VM. 1. Download and Deployment

Permanent trial mode for FortiGate-VM | Administration Guide

Supported Virtualization Platforms

Note: The trial process uses a Bring Your Own License (BYOL) model. Do not use marketplace hourly billing for trials.

Step 2: Deploy the FortiGate VM

Introduction

Fortinet’s FortiGate Virtual Machine (VM) is a cornerstone of modern network security, offering Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) capabilities in virtualized environments (VMware, Hyper-V, KVM, AWS, Azure, etc.). For network engineers, security architects, and IT professionals evaluating the platform, the 15-day trial license provides a full-feature, time-limited opportunity to test performance, policies, and integration without upfront cost. VMware ESXi (OVA deployment) Microsoft Hyper-V (VHDX) KVM

This article provides a step-by-step technical guide to obtaining, installing, validating, and extending a FortiGate VM trial license, including common pitfalls and best practices.

Step 6: (Optional) Extend or Convert to Paid License

Issue 2: License rejected with "Time mismatch"

Option 2: Using the CLI

Via console or SSH (once IP is configured):

config system license
    upload license <file-path>
end

Or using SCP: Copy the .lic file to admin@<fortigate-ip>:license.

What is a FortiGate VM Trial License?

A FortiGate VM trial license is a temporary, fully-featured license that allows you to run a FortiGate virtual appliance for a limited period (typically 15 to 30 days). Unlike a "free" or "demo" mode, the trial unlocks enterprise features including: