Apple takes pride in offering devices designed to protect users’ security. That’s how they advertise their products, including MacBooks. But MacBooks are as vulnerable to digital threats and online tracking as any other device.
Therefore, Mac users must also equip their devices with a robust VPN to protect their online privacy. Through this guide, you’ll find out how to pick such VPNs that support macOS, a list of the best Mac VPNs, and all about installing one on your device.
Top 5 VPN providers for Mac – Quick list
Desperate to install a reputable VPN on your Macbook right now? We won’t test your patience in going through the details. Here are the top picks for you to choose from.
- NordVPN: A robust VPN with tremendous security, lightning-fast speed, and noteworthy features including split tunneling, doubleVPN, kill switch, and more.
- Private Internet Access: A VPN with a wide server network, numerous fancy features for privacy, user-friendly apps and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- ExpressVPN: An old player in the VPN industry known for robust privacy, fast speed, and tested no-logs policy.
- Surfshark: The most affordable privacy solution for Mac users supporting unlimited simultaneous device connections with valuable security features.
- IPVanish: A modest VPN supporting numerous device connections simultaneously, impressive Mac support, and multiple server locations.
Why you should use a VPN on Mac
Your private life has to be kept private. Unfortunately, that’s not the case today, when almost everyone is spying on someone else. Fortunately, VPNs can help you keep your online activities private.
When compared with PCs, macOS could be considered reasonably secure. However, that doesn’t mean you sit and relax without concerns as a Mac owner. There are several reasons why you should employ a VPN.
First, you have to improve your online privacy. The security and privacy of your Mac extend only to the data stored in the MacBook. It means that when passed over the internet, you’re not guaranteed security or privacy for your data.
If a hacker can access that information, it can be used against you in various ways that you may not like.
Also, VPNs are important for accessing geo-locked content. A good example is accessing the content on Netflix. Some videos or TV shows are banned in certain countries, and to access such content, you only need the best and most working VPN.
Another significant reason for Mac owners to use a VPN is that now, with the rising popularity of Apple’s products, there are high risks due to “zero-day” vulnerability. VPNs help add an essential layer of protection against such zero-day vulnerabilities.
How to pick the best VPN for Mac
As noted earlier, several VPNs are currently in the market, all claiming to be the best.
Therefore, choosing the best VPN won’t be a walk in the park. However, to ensure that you pick the best VPN for your Mac, here is what you should consider.
Privacy/security protocols
The first thing to look out for in any VPN is whether its security protocols are strong or not. While most will claim to have high-end security protocols, they can’t justify those claims upon testing.
Therefore, always look for a VPN provider offering military-grade encryption and secure VPN protocols alongside boasting a no-logs policy.
Device compatibility
Remember that not every VPN supports multiple platforms. However, having one that works with multiple devices and platforms is an added advantage, as it will allow you to protect yourself while using any of your devices.
Speed
Perhaps you may need a VPN to access the geo-restricted content and stream your best shows. But imagine using a VPN that doesn’t have high-speed servers. It could be an awful experience.
Therefore, ensure that you get a VPN provider offering excellent bandwidth on its servers. Besides speed, the best streaming VPNs ensure minimal lags or buffering issues when watching videos.
Top 10 VPNs to use with Mac in 2024
Now that you know why you need a VPN for your Mac and how you should choose the best Mac VPN, it is time to pick one for you.
Based on thorough research and tests, here are the best VPNs for Mac to consider.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is today’s no.1 VPN for many good reasons, including robust military-grade data security, premium privacy, and dedicated support for privacy-oriented Mac users.
More than 6,800+ VPN servers worldwide in 110+ countries
P2P optimized servers
Boasts double encryption
Implements solid no-logs policy
Boasts split tunneling
Connects 10 devices at once per account
Has web protection
Double VPN feature
30-day refund policy
Pros
- No-logs policy
- Over 5000 servers with over 370 of them near China
- Lightning-fast speeds
- Obfuscated servers
- Split tunneling
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Compatible with multiple devices
- Unblocks several websites in China
- Affordable
Cons
- Some devices require manual setup
The provider has Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android apps. It also unblocks Netflix in browsers as well as the Netflix app.
It’s secure and straightforward, with over 6,800 servers in 113 countries. With NordVPN, you can also enjoy up to 10 device connections simultaneously.
It has double VPN technology, which ensures top-notch security. Besides, the company doesn’t keep logs of your activity. It also includes advanced features such as a kill switch, and tech support is available 24/7 on chat.
2. Private Internet Access
This premium service provider features a specially-designed VPN client for Mac systems. Plus, it also offers a 24-hour free trial, letting Mac users test the app’s effectiveness at no cost.
More than 34,000 VPN servers present in over 90 countries
Solid AES-256-bit encryption
Strong Wi-Fi protection
P2P sharing on all servers
Implements no-logs policy
Kill switch is customizable
Connects unlimited devices at once
30-day generous pay-back guarantee
Pros
- Unblocks US Netflix
- Fast, constant speeds
- Excellent privacy features
- Supports torrents
- 24/7 live chat customer service.
Cons
- Based in the United States which is the member of 5 eyes
PIA is a big name in the VPN world with Mac, iOS, PC, Linux, and Android apps.
It has more than 34,000 servers in over 90 countries. On top of helping you become anonymous online, it uses military-grade encryption to protect against hackers that may try to steal data on public WI-FI hotspots.
Also, it has an ad-blocker in the application to help speed up surfing. Besides, it guarantees no logs and a trigger-happy kill switch for breaches in security.
Moreover, it unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and Hulu. It also offers excellent speeds, top-notch security, and fast live customer support.
3. ExpressVPN
It is the perfect choice for all Apple users looking for a privacy-rich VPN app. Thankfully, ExpressVPN offers dedicated VPN clients for macOS systems.
More than 3,000 VPN servers located across 107 countries
Military grade AES-256-bit encryption
Boasts IP/DNS leak protection
Has P2P optimized servers
Automatic kill switch
24/7 reliable live chat support
Up to 8 device connections at once
Refund policy of 30 days
Pros
- No logs
- Fast and reliable connections
- Works with most devices in China
- Excellent customer support
- Ensures thorough privacy
Cons
- Relatively expensive
ExpressVPN is one of the best VPN providers as it offers a 256-bit AES encryption protocol alongside other top-notch features.
There are also apps available for Windows, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and certain Wi-Fi routers (almost all the most widespread ones).
It has fast speeds and offers unlimited bandwidth, ensuring HD streaming and quickly downloading large files. In addition, the provider has VPN servers in over 105 countries with over 3000 servers.
Also, it keeps no logs and comes with an inbuilt “kill switch,” known as a “network lock,” and bulletproof DNS and IP leak protection.
ExpressVPN Mac app has a split tunneling feature, which allows you to choose apps to tunnel through the VPN and those to use a regular unencrypted internet connection.
4. Surfshark
Being a Mac user doesn’t mean you must afford costly security. Surfshark comes up as a budget-friendly alternative offering premium privacy to Mac users.
More than 3,200 secure-VPN servers available across 100 countries
Military-grade AES-256-bit encryption
All servers are P2P optimized
MultiHop mode
Strong protection for DNS leaks
Effective kill switch
Unique Camouflage-mode
Connects as much devices as you want
Pay-back policy of 30 days
Pros
- Excellent macOS app
- Fast and secure
- All servers unblock Netflix
- Kill switch feature.
- 24/7 live customer service
Cons
- Distant servers may be slow
The Surfshark VPN is quite beginner-friendly and works with streaming sites such as BBC iPlayer and Netflix. The apps available include Mac, PC, iOS, Linux, and Android.
Besides, it is among the best VPN services to secure Mac and unblocks US Netflix in the browser and the Netflix app.
Surfshark offers over 3200 servers across 100 countries with unlimited simultaneous connections. There’s also a kill switch, a multi-Hop feature for privacy concerns, and a strict no-logs policy.
5. IPVanish
This amazing VPN provider ensures protecting all your devices with robust security, including your Mac. It is indeed a much-needed privacy tool for Apple fans.
More than 2,000 VPN servers present in more than 75 locations globally
All servers have P2P sharing
Military-grade AES-256-bit encryption
Kill switch is really effective
No data keeping
Boasts split tunneling feature
No DNS leak
Connects as many devices as you want at once
30 days of pay-back policy
Pros
- Apps work excellent with MacOS
- Multiple simultaneous connections
- Dedicated mobile apps
- Fantastic performance – fast speeds
- Netflix unblocking
Cons
- Not very easy to use the apps
Another brilliantly balanced Mac VPN is the IPVanish. OpenVPN, L2TP, and PPTP protocols are supported. Besides, this VPN includes decent iOS, PC, Linux, and Android apps.
IPVanish caters to beginners and families with over 2,000 servers across over 75 regions. Moreover, it lets you connect unlimited devices simultaneously with a single account.
The speeds are fast, connections are reliable, and the provider offers superb online security with 256-bit AES encryption.
A kill switch, DNS leak protection, traffic obfuscation, and IPv6 leak protection can be easily toggled in settings.
Furthermore, you can set your IP address for it to change at a given interval. Also, it stores no logs about your activity.
6. PrivateVPN
Don’t be deceived by its modest network. PrivateVPN strives to provide robust online privacy to every customer, including Mac users.
More than 200 VPN server locations available across 63 countries
Strong AES-256-bit encryption
P2P friendly (torrenting)
Solid protection DNS leaks
Boasts kill switch feature
Incredible live chat support
Ten connections at once on one account
Pay-back policy of 30 days
Pros
- No logs
- The speed is impressive
- Unblocks US Netflix
Cons
- Live chat not available all the time
- Fewer servers compared to other top Mac VPNs
The PrivateVPN has apps available for Android, Mac, iOS, Windows, and Linux. It also boasts excellent speeds, security, and the ability to bypass all geographic restrictions.
The security standards are exactly what you are looking for or expect from a more prominent provider that includes 256-bit encryption and perfect forward secrecy.
Moreover, PrivateVPN includes a kill switch and DNS leak protection, and the provider logs less.
Also, it has a basic plan that allows you to connect up to 6 devices simultaneously. In addition, their live chat is active and available on the website 24/7 during business hours.
7. TunnelBear
This freemium VPN offers dedicated support for macOS devices. So, don’t hesitate to test this service on your Mac to secure your browsing sessions.
More than 2,500 VPN servers present in 49+ countries
Strong military-grade encryption; AES-256 bits
No DNS/IP leaks found
Customizable kill switch feature
Five simultaneous device per account
Money-back guarantee varries case-by-case
Pros
- Vivid no-logging policy
- Limited free plan
- User-friendly
- Independently audited security
- Latest VPN protocols as well as encryption
- Affordable
Cons
- Sluggish speeds at times
- No Torrenting/P2P support
TunnelBear offers plenty of bear puns, which will keep you entertained. The best thing about this Mac VPN is that it uses pretty hefty security and encryption measures. It’s compatible with Windows, iOS, macOS, and Android.
Subsequently, it’s equipped with the Vigilant Bear option, which provides excellent leak protection. It’s basically a kill switch that is activated when a VPN connection is not available.
Also, it features a no-logging policy, meaning that it doesn’t maintain the records of the IP addresses that visit their websites or any DNS queries carried out while connected.
You’ll also get up to 5 simultaneous connections, which also works with Netflix. There’s also a free version; however, you’ll only be able to get 500MB per month.
8. Windscribe
Another freemium VPN provider featuring Mac support. Download it on your Mac right away and protect your browsing sessions – just the way an Apple user would do.
More than 170 VPN servers available in 60+ countries
Solid AES-256-bit encryption
P2P support on all servers
Uncompromised DNS/IPv6 leak protection
Effective kill switch
ROBERT ad blocker
No limit simutaneous connections per subscription
Limited money-back guarantee
Pros
- Website notification blocking
- Fast streaming speeds
- UI with city-level location selection
- Time zone spoofing
- Unblocks Netflix
Cons
- Absence of a 24/7 live chat
- A limited number of servers
Windscribe is an excellent addition to the VPN market that builds on well-received features and the functionality of the preceding services while offering its unique appeal.
The Windscribe works on Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, and Mac. Besides, it’s one of the best VPNs for torrenting alongside Netflix, Hulu, and other online streaming sites.
Beyond the free trial that Windscribe offers, it also has a free version (which is limited in functionality and bandwidth) for casual users that aren’t ready to commit to the paid service.
Windscribe also boasts top-notch security, privacy, a crisp UI, and top-of-the-line tutorials. In addition, it enables you to connect to a vast server network spanning over 60 server locations with excellent speeds.
Installation and setting it up is a breeze, even for beginners. You will be able to connect to unlimited devices simultaneously.
9. Hotspot Shield
Looking for a free Mac VPN? This service provider has got you covered. You can also take advantage of its robust security features to secure your online activities.
More than 1,800 VPN servers in 80+ countries
Allows P2P connections
Reliable protection for DNS/IPv6 leaks
Kill switch is customizable
Connects up to five devices at once
45 days generous pay-back policy
Pros
- Military-grade encryption
- 500MB free data each day
- Reliable speeds
- 24/7 live chat support
- Works for Netflix streaming
Cons
- Connect speeds drop during peak times
- It can not unblock Netflix all the time
Hotspot Shield is a free Mac VPN that’s very easy to use and is compatible with iOS, Windows, browsers, macOS, and Android.
It includes a dedicated Mac app with a unique Catapult Hydra protocol designed to improve connection speeds and latency.
You’ll be able to stream for like 30 minutes per day with 500MB of data. However, the free plan may limit you to one server in the United States.
Despite the free version option, it provides similar high-level protection as the paid subscription — thanks to the inbuilt kill switch alongside military-grade encryption.
Moreover, the inbuilt malware protection helps block suspicious websites, hence protecting you from potential malware infections and phishing scams.
10. Betternet VPN
This VPN is a handy tool for Mac users looking for a service to change their IP addresses without compromising digital security.
More than 20 VPN servers available in 12 countries
Solid AES 256-bit encryption
No data keeping
Connects up to five devices at once
30-day money-back guarantee
Pros
- Completely free version on offer
- Fast connection speeds
- Easy to use
- 7-day free premium trial
Cons
- No-kill switch
- Slow for Torrenting
- Doesn’t work with Netflix
Although, we recommend that you seldom include free VPNs during your VPN considerations. However, Betternet protects your privacy and security differently than other free VPNs you may have heard about.
Apart from being a free VPN client, you can also use their Android, iOS, and Mac apps, Firefox extension, Windows, and Chrome extension for free.
Betternet is among the very few free VPNs that work with Mac out of the box. It offers 500MB of free data daily to browse for almost four hours. Besides, it offers one free server.
The speeds are also reliable, and you can connect unlimited devices simultaneously. BetterNet VPN also offers you a free 7-day trial for premium service alongside a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why should I avoid free VPNs for Mac?
Most free VPNs have promised to be the best option, but they should not be on your list for consideration for various reasons.
First, free VPNs slow or merely limit your downloads. Most of them cap data transfers as well as implement bandwidth limits.
Secondly, they usually have poor privacy standards. For instance, free VPNs use outdated encryption or even keep logs on everything you do online.
Furthermore, some will go as far as injecting tracking cookies and advertisements into the browser alongside selling personal browsing data to third parties.
Also, you must avoid free VPNs because they usually carry malware that can infect your MacBook once installed. Therefore, it’s recommended that you always stick to credible paid VPN services.
I’ve picked my best Mac OS VPN. How do I get started?
Now that you have all the information you need to select your best Mac VPN, how do you start?
The process is just a walk in the park; it’s like installing any application on macOS. Here’s how you’re supposed to start:
- Download the VPN application from the provider’s website of your choice; NordVPN is our top recommendation.
- Install the downloaded file by double-clicking it; ensure that you confirm any prompts appearing.
- Now, you can launch the VPN app from the applications menu.
- You’ll be asked to log in, whereby you enter your credentials (username and password). Additional verification may be needed depending on your chosen provider, but that is all if you selected NordVPN.
- Next, select a VPN server in a location you wish to access the internet from.
- Hit the “Connect” button or simply double-click the server.
- Sit back, relax, and wait for a connection to establish – that’s it.
Setting the native IKEv2 VPN on a Mac
The inbuilt IKEv2 setting (app-free solution) is another option on macOS that integrates directly with your macOS op as well as a firewall. Compared with OpenVPN, the IKEv2 protocol is secure, reliable, and less CPU-intensive.
It is an excellent option for users who wish to use a VPN on Mac without installing any application, as it runs natively on the Mac OS operating system.
To set up the native IKEv2 VPN on your Mac, you first need to sign up for a VPN service that supports native IKEv2. We will elaborate on the process using Perfect Privacy as we found it to be the finest option for the IPSec/IKEv2 setup.
Once you are done with creating an account with Perfect Privacy VPN, here’s how to set it up (works on El Capitan and later):
- Get to the IPsec page in the download section of your Perfect Privacy VPN account.
- Scroll down in the IPsec IKEv2 to the single configuration option.
- Pick a location and then tap on Install directly.
- Double-click on the downloaded file so that the VPN profile gets installed, and then click on “Continue” in the new window.
- Click on install to continue (you will need to enter your macOS login credentials).
- By now, the VPN profile will be installed.
- Click on the left arrow symbol at the top right.
- Get to “Network” and then select the VPN connection you added previously.
- Now, click on “Authentication Settings” and choose username instead of a Certificate.
- Enter the account details (your Perfect Privacy username and password), click OK, and then Apply to save the changes.
- Establish a VPN connection by clicking Connect, and you are ready.
