You can verify the license status from the CLI with this command:
With network access verified, you can now trigger the permanent trial activation. This can be executed through either the Graphical User Interface (GUI) or the CLI. Option A: Activation via the Web GUI (Recommended)
A: Yes, but upgrade only to the same major version (e.g., 7.2.x to 7.2.y). Upgrading to a new major version (7.2 to 7.4) may invalidate the trial license.
execute vm-license-options account-id your-account-email@example.com
: No access to live FortiGuard updates (IPS, Web Filtering, Antivirus definitions). VDOMs : Limited to 1 Virtual Domain. Requirements for Activation fortigate vm license trial install
I can provide targeted CLI commands to fix the connectivity or licensing block. Share public link
How to Install and Activate a FortiGate VM Trial License: A Step-by-Step Guide
Open a web browser and navigate to https:// .
Check your DNS settings via the FortiGate CLI ( show system dns ). Ensure the firewall can resolve fortinet.com domains and that no upstream firewall is blocking port 443 (HTTPS) traffic. You can verify the license status from the
Ensure the VM has internet access to communicate with the FortiGuard servers for validation.
Whether you are a network engineer studying for NSE 4 certification, a security architect testing SD-WAN migrations, or a DevOps professional integrating firewalls into CI/CD pipelines, this trial gives you risk-free hands-on experience.
Registration is free at the Fortinet Support Portal.
The permanent trial is designed for lab and testing environments only and has the following constraints: : Limited to 1 vCPU and 2 GB RAM. Connectivity : Maximum of 3 usable interfaces and 3 firewall policies. Upgrading to a new major version (7
Ensure your VM hardware allocation does not exceed 1 vCPU or 2 GB RAM. If the system detects a second core or extra memory, it invalidates the evaluation criteria.
Last updated: 2025 – Supports FortiOS 7.4 and 7.6
Before you begin the FortiGate VM license trial install, ensure you have:
The FortiGate VM trial license is a powerful, zero-cost way to validate Fortinet’s security capabilities in a virtual environment. By carefully following the serial number generation process, ensuring stable NTP and outbound connectivity, and protecting the VM’s UUID, you can maximize the full 15-day evaluation period. Use snapshots, document your tests, and plan for a smooth transition to a paid license or a clean teardown. For production, always procure a valid, perpetual, or subscription-based license from an authorized Fortinet partner.