Network error. Can not connect to vpn server- SSL VPN error on MacOS Tahoe 26.0.1

[BilboBaggins]

Hi,

We are seeing a cross section of users getting the message, "Network error. Can not connect to vpn server." while trying to connect to VPN using FortiClient SSL VPN "free" version 7.2.12 and 7.4.3.

The "fix" has been to downgrade them to an earlier version of the FortiClient (ex. 7.0.12). 

For some users it works fine connecting on the newer versions, for some it does not. 

Anyone else seeing this?

[funkylicious]

hi,

oficially, Tahoe is supported in 7.4.5 - https://docs.fortinet.com/document/forticlient/7.4.5/macos-release-notes/471180 

have the special notes steps followed for permission ? https://docs.fortinet.com/document/forticlient/7.4.3/macos-release-notes/223986 

[BilboBaggins]

Thanks for the note. I did not know about 7.4.5, so I upgraded to that, but still got the same error. (Side Note: 7.4.5 says it wants me to buy a license by January 2026 though. My Employer has me using the free version only.)

I did check all of those special notes and permissions, everything was set the way it said it should be, but still got the same error. 

:(

[funkylicious]

starting with 7.4.4 there is no free vpn-only FortiClient, so up until 7.4.3 all are free to use.

as for your issue, try enabling debug in FortiClient - https://community.fortinet.com/t5/FortiClient/Technical-Tip-How-to-enable-debug-log-in-FortiClient/t... ( /Users/<>/Library/Application Support/Fortinet/FortiClient/Logs ) and see if there's anything in there that might say what the issue is or even starting a debug on the FortiGate while connecting with a trouble client.