Forticlient: Fcremove.exe
: Attempted command-line uninstalls fail with an MSI 1603 fatal error code. Step-by-Step Guide to Downloading the Utility
A new version won't install because it detects "remnants" of an older version.
(Note: The availability of flags depends on the specific version of the tool).
folder and select the specific version you are troubleshooting. Download the FortiClientTools_*.zip FCRemove.exe within the /SupportUtils/ folder of that zip file. Usage Procedure Boot into Safe Mode forticlient fcremove.exe
fcremove.exe is an official, dedicated command-line utility developed by Fortinet. Its sole purpose is to forcibly and cleanly uninstall FortiClient from Windows operating systems when standard methods fail.
Which you are trying to remove (e.g., v6.4, v7.0, v7.2)?
While rare, removing low-level network drivers can occasionally result in boot loops or lost connectivity. Ensure your work is saved. Step-by-Step Guide to Using fcremove.exe : Attempted command-line uninstalls fail with an MSI
Incorrectly editing the registry can damage your OS. Create a restore point first. Troubleshooting FCRemove.exe Issues
: The computer had to be rebooted into Safe Mode so FortiClient’s defenses were lowered.
The FCUnregister.exe tool, also found in the SupportUtils folder, is designed for this purpose. It deregisters the client while leaving the software installed on the system. folder and select the specific version you are
In some managed environments, the "Uninstall" button in Settings is greyed out. How to Obtain FCRemove.exe
Because fcremove.exe bypasses standard security permissions to strip away endpoint protection, Fortinet does not make it publicly available on their standard download pages. This prevents end-users from easily tampering with corporate security policies. 1. Download via the Fortinet Support Portal
Terminates all active FortiClient processes and background services.