FortiClient VPN “Connect” instantly switches to “Disconnect” (no actual connection) on Windows 11

[niketh]

Hi,
I need help troubleshooting a FortiClient VPN issue on my Windows 11 laptop.

Problem Summary

1. When I click Connect in FortiClient VPN (v7.4.3.1790), the Connect button immediately changes to Disconnect, but the VPN never actually connects.
2. No “Connecting…” animation, no delay, no status messages.
3. Even if I enter a wrong password, the behavior is the same — Connect → Disconnect button appears immediately, but no error is shown.
4. The same VPN credentials work on my colleague’s laptop, so the issue is specific to my system.