When using Connect Before Logon (CBL) with smart card authentication and ActivClient software, users previously encountered significant friction due to repeated PIN prompts. This issue occurred on devices where ActivClient software was installed alongside the GlobalProtect app, forcing end users to enter their smart card PIN multiple times and hindering the seamless pre-login process. This disruption compromised the reliable and streamlined access intended by the CBL connection method.

To provide a superior user experience, GlobalProtect® now streamlines smart card authentication for this specific configuration. This enhancement ensures that the GlobalProtect app effectively manages the complex interaction between the Windows identity provider and ActivClient software. Consequently, the end user is prompted to enter their PIN only once. This single required prompt correctly originates from the ActivClient software, ensuring a quick, consistent, and uninterrupted connection using the Connect Before Logon method.