How to Install and Configure Palo Alto GlobalProtect VPN

Palo Alto Networks’ GlobalProtect provides secure remote access to your corporate network with strong encryption and device compliance checks. The steps below cover installation on Windows, macOS, and mobile devices, plus initial connection setup and common troubleshooting tips.

1. Downloading the GlobalProtect Installer
Choose the installer matching your platform:
Windows: GlobalProtect.msi
macOS: GlobalProtect.pkg
Linux: GlobalProtect.tar.gz (or distro-specific package)
iOS / Android: links to App Store / Google Play

2. Installing on Windows
Run the downloaded GlobalProtect.msi.
In the installer wizard:
Click Next, accept the License Agreement.
Leave the default installation path or choose a custom one.
Click Install.
When complete, click Finish.
You’ll find GlobalProtect in the Start menu.

3. Installing on macOS
Double-click the downloaded GlobalProtect.pkg.
In the installer window:
Click Continue, review and Agree to the license.
Choose the installation volume.
Enter your macOS admin password when prompted.
After installation, click Close.
Launch via Applications → GlobalProtect.

4. Installing on Linux
Extract the tarball:
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tar xzf GlobalProtect_linux_*.tar.gz cd GlobalProtect
Run the installer with sudo:
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sudo ./install.sh
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete installation.
Start the client with:
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globalprotect launch-ui
Or connect via CLI:
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globalprotect connect --portal vpn.company.com

5. Installing on Mobile (iOS & Android)
Open App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
Search for “Palo Alto GlobalProtect”.
Tap Install (Android) or Get (iOS).
Once installed, open the app.

6. Initial Connection Setup
Launch the GlobalProtect client (desktop or mobile).
In the Portal field, enter your portal address (e.g., vpn.company.com) and click Connect.
Authenticate using your corporate credentials (username/password, MFA, or certificate).
On success, the client will display “Connected” and show a green shield icon.

7. Common Troubleshooting
Cannot reach portal
Verify the portal DNS resolves and port 443 is open.
Check network/firewall settings.
Authentication fails
Confirm username/password or certificate validity.
Ensure any required MFA (one-time code) is entered correctly.
No network access after connect
Check split-tunnel settings in the client.
Flush DNS cache (ipconfig /flushdns on Windows, sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder on macOS).
Client crashes or won’t launch
Update to the latest GlobalProtect version.
Reboot the device and reinstall the client.

8. Best Practices
Keep GlobalProtect up to date to receive security patches.
Use MFA when supported for stronger security.
Disconnect when VPN is no longer needed to conserve bandwidth.
Review logs (globalprotect show --status on CLI) for troubleshooting.