The best Mac VPN in 2024
The best Mac VPNs available today, fully tested and ranked
Macs are generally considered to be better equipped to face viruses, malware and other online nastiness, but using the best Mac VPN is still the best way to stay safe online and avoid surveillance and censorship. But which name should you opt for? There are almost more Mac VPNs to choose from than there are Macbooks at Cupertino, but we've done the hard work for you.
When weighing up a VPN, it has to excel in a lot of areas for us to consider it one of the best VPNs out there. We of course value privacy and safety the most, but then we also test how well each provider can access blocked sites and global streaming services. Connection speed is important too, and we also test how well each VPN performs on different devices. On this page, we'll be judging each on how well they run on macOS.
If you're in a rush then check out our top three options directly below, but if you want to do some further reading, we've gone more in-depth on the five best options for Mac users.
My top three Mac VPN picks
1. NordVPN – The best Mac VPN overall
NordVPN is my top VPN overall, and it's the same on Mac. The apps are slick, match the Apple aesthetic well, and include extras like a password manager and malware detection. It's very fast, boasts a huge number of servers and prices start from $3.09 per month. You can also test it thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. ExpressVPN – The best Mac VPN for beginners
If you prefer a simpler experience, ExpressVPN strips it all back and delivers one of the easiest-to-use Mac VPNs around, you can connect in just one click! It's a little more expensive than NordVPN at $6.67 per month, but it has class-leading privacy features and the best-designed apps available. You can also test it out with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Surfshark – The best cheap Mac VPN
Surfshark offers an excellent mix of affordability and top-quality privacy protection. With simple apps, unlimited connections with one pan and the option to add on antivirus as well, it offers unparalleled value for money. It starts at less than $2.50 per month, and Mac users can also claim a 7-day free trial in addition to the standard 30-day money-back guarantee.
Recent updates
I've added further information about some of the newer features that the top Mac VPN providers offer. This includes NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro and Surfshark's Alternative ID features.
The best Mac VPNs today
Why you can trust Tom's Guide
The best Mac VPN overall
1. NordVPN
The very best Mac VPN
Also works on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux | Unblocks: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, ITVX, All4, 9Now, 10Play | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Number of servers: 6,000+ | Maximum devices supported: 10
✔️ You want to stream Netflix on your Mac: NordVPN unblocked pretty much everything I threw at it in my testing, from popular locations like US and UK to even some hard-to-crack Netflix libraries like Japan.
✔️ You want an all-in-one VPN: NordVPN goes above and beyond to provide you with a 360-degree security solution with great speeds, privacy, wide coverage, and 24/7 friendly support.
✔️ You want a VPN with built-in antivirus: Nord stamps its authority as a comprehensive security package thanks to a native antivirus solution.
❌ You want the best interface: The map-style interface isn't hugely intuitive. Those looking for simplicity will be better off with ExpressVPN or Surfshark.
❌ You want unlimited simultaneous connections: Despite a recent upgrade, NordVPN still only allows 10 devices to run at the same time. Surfshark and Private Internet Access are unlimited here.
NordVPN is the best Mac VPN because it does it all, and it does it well. It has excellent privacy features – including extras like Double VPN and Onion over VPN – is simple to use, and has an unblemished record when it comes to streaming overseas content and evading censorship. It's also very affordable – well worth considering.
As quite possibly the best-known VPN on the market, it's no surprise to see NordVPN crop up as the best Mac VPN. Alongside a full security suite, it comes with its own super-fast encryption protocol, that topped my speed tests at over 950 Mbps.
In my hands-on NordVPN review, I found that it offers all the basics, like powerful encryption and multiple protocols, but it also delivers a few features that aren't available with rivals ExpressVPN and Surfshark. The unique 'Onion over VPN' setting routes you through the Tor network, which sacrifices speed for unrivaled privacy.
You'll also get two kill switches and a nifty Double VPN feature which encrypts your data twice by routing your Internet traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, as is the standard.
The unique Meshnet feature works like a LAN network, allowing you to securely connect up to 60 devices directly. This eliminates the need to ever send files to the server cloud, making gaming or collaborating with your buddies and file sharing more secure. This, coupled with an independently audited no-logs policy and in-built antivirus, makes NordVPN a complete security suite adept on all counts.
On its Mac app, NordVPN has a Presets feature that allows you to combine a set of VPN settings and a server location to operate the VPN in the best possible manner as per your use case.
For example, you can have a browsing preset that maximizes security while browsing, with ad and malware blocking. On other occasions, you can prioritize download speeds and then have a different preset to go along with those settings – lots to play around with and is much welcome.
Subscribers to NordVPN's "Plus" and "Ultimate" tiers also get access to Threat Protection Pro, Nord's all-in-one online safety tool. Threat Protection Pro is enabled with just one click and automatically protects you from phishing scams, malware and suspicious URLs.
The app itself is a little divisive. While some people enjoy the larger map-based interface, others much prefer the simpler, clear style employed by the likes of ExpressVPN. This is a matter of taste, though.
As the best Netflix VPN, NordVPN gives you unrestricted access to every Netflix library in the world, including niche locations like Japan. Not just that, it runs smoothly with all other popular streaming sites as well, including Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.
Recent updates the to service have addressed my main concerns with NordVPN. You can now run the app on 10 devices simultaneously – up from six – and the server spread has increased to a massive 111 countries. This takes NordVPN ahead of its closest rivals, ExpressVPN and Surfshark, and if I'm honest, it's not a difficult choice to place it first in this guide.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | A fun design but it could have been more clutter-free | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Easy-to-use apps across the board but the map-like interface puts off the simplicity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Very rapid and consistent, and one of the fastest | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Bypasses geo-restrictions of every platform no matter where you are | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | A complete package with a verified no-logs policy, reliable encryption, and a built-in antivirus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | 24/7 expert assistance with no shortage of help resources | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Reasonably priced but cheaper options are available | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
ExpressVPN: The best Mac VPN for beginners
2. ExpressVPN
Super simple to use, with excellent privacy
Also works on: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox | Unblocks: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Number of servers: 3,000+ | Maximum devices supported: 8
✔️ You want class-leading privacy and security: ExpressVPN provides comprehensive VPN protection, with an independently audited no-logs policy, ad and malware blockers
✔️ You want a VPN you can set and forget: Thanks to Express’s auto-connect feature, you have to connect to the VPN just once, and it’ll ensure that you’re always on a secure VPN server.
✔️ You want a VPN for gaming on your Mac: ExpressVPN protects you from DDoS attacks, keeps your data private, and reduces ping time between gaming servers by connecting you to servers close to the network host.
❌ You want a cheap VPN: ExpressVPN isn't exactly a bargain, and rivals like Surfshark are ideal for you if you’re on a budget.
❌ You want built-in antivirus: ExpressVPN misses out on being an all-in-one security solution due to the lack of an antivirus, something which NordVPN has.
ExpressVPN is super simple to use, and takes all the effort out of staying protected online – and it delivers an absolutely seamless experience on Mac as well. With class-leading privacy, excellent unblocking capabilities, wide coverage, and beginner-friendly apps, ExpressVPN is well worth the slightly higher price.
In my hands-on ExpressVPN review, the British Virgin Islands-based provider came out as one of the very best services available, and on Mac the answer is no different. With powerful encryption, a rock-solid kill switch and an auto-connect feature, you can rest assured that your browsing history or real location will never be left vulnerable.
Both ExpressVPN’s Windows and Mac apps are very similar in how they look and function. However, the Mac version doesn’t have split tunneling. On the bright side, it provides the Threat Manager and the malware and tracking blocker, both of which are offerings omitted from its Windows app. It's also the best iPhone VPN on the market, so if you have multiple Apple devices, it's well worth considering.
The Threat Manager is a unique ExpressVPN feature that blocks apps and websites on your Mac from tracking your activity, let alone relaying it to third parties. A strict no-logs policy and class-leading encryption with secure DNS and P2P support on all servers make ExpressVPN one of the most secure VPNs on the market right now.
For even more protection, ExpressVPN employs TrustedServer technology that includes RAM-only servers and the entire software stack being reinstalled on every server at boot. ExpressVPN servers do not store any of your data, and once your session comes to an end, there’s virtually no record of it whatsoever.
ExpressVPN is also killer when it comes to streaming. It's able to unblock a wide range of global Netflix libraries, as well as BBC iPlayer outside the UK, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and tons more. In the past, NordVPN has been slightly more reliable, but Express is currently a great choice.
In my recent round of testing, ExpressVPN reached a maximum download speed of 750 Mbps. Now, you really only need a 25 Mbps connection to stream your favorite content in 4K Ultra HD, so Express does more than just a decent job here. That said, it can't quite match the likes of Surfshark and NordVPN when it comes to sheer speed.
You can now log in with the same ExpressVPN account on 8 devices simultaneously. This number was previously 5, so the jump is commendable, but rivals like Surfshark and PIA come with unlimited simultaneous connections, and at a lower price point. However, I'm glad to see ExpressVPN pushing to offer more value to customers.
The introduction of ExpressVPN Keys, however, is very welcome and shows that the premium provider is focused on improving its wider range of security and privacy products – one of its key weaknesses.
Overall, ExpressVPN is an ideal pick for those who want a very simple experience, and just want to stay safe online. In terms of privacy it's second to none, and while it's a little on the pricy side, for many it will be the best choice. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, so try it out and see how it works for you.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | An intuitive and beginner-friendly design that’s pleasing to the eye | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | One of the most beginner-friendly VPNs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Speeds are excellent, but there are faster VPNs out there | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Excellent across the board, with only a couple of niche Netflix libraries unavailable | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Quite frankly unbeatable when it comes to personal protection | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | Fast and knowledgeable live chat agents, with tons of useful guides | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Pretty expensive when compared to the competition | ⭐⭐⭐ |
The best budget Mac VPN
3. Surfshark
Excellent VPN for Mac at a bargain price
Also works on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI) | Unblocks: Netflix, iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon, Hulu, Disney+ | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Number of servers: 3,200+ | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited
✔️ You want unlimited simultaneous connections: You can cover any number of devices with just one Surfshark subscription, including your family members and friends and then some.
✔️ You want no compromises on speed: Surfshark is as fast or faster than all its rivals, topping out at an outstanding 950 Mbps in my testing.
✔️ You want to stream on your Mac: Surfshark comes with commendable unblocking capabilities, and with servers in over 100 countries, you’ll have access to more libraries than you'll ever need.
❌ You only want to torrent: Surfshark supports torrenting on its service, but if that’s your major use case, PIA or ExpressVPN is better suited for you.
❌ You’re a Windows user: If you also happen to have a device running Windows, I found a minor issue with the kill switch. This doesn't affect Macs, however.
Surfshark provides exceptional value for money, with unlimited simultaneous connections, industry-leading speeds, and well-rounded security measures. It's very well suited for those who want to access global Netflix libraries and other streaming sites. For the price, you can't go wrong.
Surfshark is the best cheap VPN I've tested, that also stands tall as a capable Mac VPN thanks to its recent upgrades to be Apple silicon-compatible. Plus, like Nord, Surfshark proved itself to be one of the fastest VPNs I've tested, maxing out at an impressive 950 Mbps.
With full support for WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, industry-standard AES-256 encryption, and a few extra features like split tunnelling and Double Hop, along with Clean Web 2.0 ad and malware blocking, it's a complete package. The simple, friendly Mac interface also makes these features easy to use, and just like ExpressVPN, it's a great option for first-timers.
However, the app window isn’t resizable, nor is the kill switch status shown on the home screen, both of which are a little annoying, especially when you consider that it’s not the case on Surfshark’s Windows app. But the Mac app shines through with its auto-connect functionality – something the Windows app doesn’t have. You can rest assured that you’ll be connected to a secure Surfshark server at all times.
Surfshark also provides another layer on anonymity via its Incogni service. This sees the company request data brokers, such as those dealing in marketing data, recruitment data, people search sites, and more, to delete any data they have on you. All you have to do is fill out a form and give Incogni permission to reach out to data brokers on your behalf. This shows how dedicated Surfshark is to user privacy – although you will have to sign up separately.
If you want even more anonymity then Surfshark has you covered too. Subscribers get access to its Alternative ID tool, a system that lets you randomly create an email address and identity for signing up to services online. You need never risk your personal details or real email address again. If you sign up for the Alternative Number paid add-on then you can even set up a fake number that actually works on your phone!
Surfshark sets itself apart from its competition with its unlimited simultaneous connections, making it an ideal pick for those who want to cover all the devices in their family plus share the same VPN subscription with their friends and co-workers.
On the streaming front, the service is at par with industry leaders like NordVPN and ExpressVPN, unblocking everything I threw at it, from UK US Netflix libraries and BBC iPlayer to the more obscure platforms like 10Play.
All in all, Surfshark offers excellent encryption with the fastest speeds and a smooth and uninterrupted streaming experience – and at less than $2.50 a month, it's an absolute bargain as well.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | An intuitive and beginner-friendly design that’s pleasing to the eye | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | One of the most beginner-friendly VPNs, and even complete rookies can easily navigate their way around the apps | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | The fastest provider that I’ve tested | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Effortless unblocking of just about every platform there is | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Excellent basics, although the kill switch on Windows lets it down a little | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | A little difficult to navigate but the 24/7 professional support is pretty reliable | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | Great value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The best of the rest
4. Proton VPN
Seriously secure and great for streaming
Also works on: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux (GUI) | Unblocks: Netflix, iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon, Hulu, Disney+ | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Number of servers: 5,000+ | Maximum devices supported: 10
✔️ You want a free Mac VPN: Proton VPN has a very capable free plan for regular usage that comes with access to 100 servers in 3 countries, unlimited data, zero ads, and customer support.
✔️ You want a decent number of simultaneous connections: Proton VPN allows 10 simultaneous connections, which should be enough for most users.
✔️ You want a VPN you can trust with your life: Proton VPN hides nothing, and you can verify and audit every claim of this Swiss provider thanks to the open-source platform.
❌ You're on a tight budget: even after its recent price cuts, Proton VPN isn’t as economical as PIA or Surfshark.
❌ You want access to Japanese Netflix: If your watchlist is majorly the Japanese Netflix library, you’re better off with NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
Proton VPN boasts excellent privacy features, and aims to offer a more security focused experience than other services. That doesn't mean it's all work and no play, though – it's great for streaming and torrenting too. However, its high price may put some users off.
Well known as a very private VPN, Proton VPN delivers excellent protection for its users across the board. Fully audited apps, an excellent no-logging policy and full AES-256 encryption alongside more unusual features like Tor over VPN and its rock-solid Secure Core servers make it a good choice for anyone looking for a properly secure Mac VPN.
It doesn't sacrifice any usability for that though, and it's also a very powerful streaming VPN. It unblocks all popular Netflix libraries, including some hard-to-crack countries like Japan, and tons of other streaming sites too.
Unlike its rivals, Proton VPN doesn't hold back on its Mac version and the only thing it misses out on here is split tunneling (available on the Windows app), but it makes up for that by providing support for an extra protocol – IKEv2, besides the usual WireGuard and OpenVPN.
In my ProtonVPN review, it impressed with its proprietary VPN accelerator technology that claims to amp up your speeds by up to 400%. This primarily affects OpenVPN speeds, cranking the old-school protocol up to 400 Mbps. That's very quick. With WireGuard it's even better news, with Proton matching NordVPN and Surfshark at a searing 950 Mbps. An excellent performance indeed.
A unique ad blocker that goes by the name of NetShield protects your Mac from malware found in images, scripts, and other resources on the world wide web. That said, this feature is only available to users of the paid plans. If you’re on the free plan, the standard no-ads policy of ProtonVPN will have to make do.
ProtonVPN is also a top choice for Mac users looking for a free VPN – you get 100+ server options in 3 countries with unlimited bandwidth and customer support. However, note that ProtonVPN’s free plan does not come with unblocking capabilities.
Overall, a Swiss-based provider doesn't leave much scope for skepticism in terms of security, but Proton’s 10 simultaneous connections and moderately premium pricing make it slightly less appealing than some others – cheaper than ExpressVPN but certainly not as welcoming as Surfshark.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | A dynamic design, and the dark mode takes the spotlight | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | The mobile interface is very user-friendly but the desktop version needs some getting used to | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Not as fast as Surfshark or NordVPN but gets the job done | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | Except for the free version, the unblocking capabilities are on par with some of the best | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Reliable security with Swiss privacy laws and an open-source platform | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | Decent article, but live chat is only 9-5, and the articles can be tricky to navigate | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | The free plan is one of the most capable, but the paid plans are a touch expensive | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
5. Private Internet Access
Perfect for the technically-minded, but somewhat complex
Also works on: Windows, Mac, Android and iOS, Linux, routers and more | Unblocks: Netflix, iPlayer, YouTube, Amazon, Hulu, Disney+ | Money-back guarantee: 30 days | Number of servers: 10,000+ | Maximum devices supported: Unlimited
✔️ You're a power user: With more customization options than any other VPN on this page, PIA is perfect for experts
✔️ You want to use your VPN on tons of devices: PIA's unlimited device policy means one subscription goes further.
✔️ You're on a budget: Depending on the deal at the time, PIA is often even cheaper than Surfshark.
❌ You value simplicity: PIA's comprehensive features come with the cost of complex apps.
❌ You have a gigabit connection: Topping out at around 320 Mbps means PIA could slow you down if you have an ultra-fast connection.
Private Internet Access is a favorite with the techy crowd, and offers a huge amount of customization. If you're looking to configure port forwarding and want full control over your Mac VPN, it's the one to go for – but for beginners, I'd suggest ExpressVPN or Surfshark.
Private Internet Access is a stalwart in the VPN game, and it offers one of the most powerful VPNs on Mac that I've tested. What's more, it rivals Surfshark as one of the best-value VPNs around – there's a whole lot of value here if you're going to use it.
With over 10,000 servers in 91 countries – including at least one server in every US state – PIA's coverage is very impressive. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard, and has a rock-solid kill switch. These are the bare minimum I'd expect from any VPN, but there's plenty more to be had.
In my Private Internet Access review, I found the provider goes beyond the basics with an advanced implementation of split tunnelling – you can set up specific rules for apps and certain situations – and those looking for a torrenting VPN will appreciate the inclusion of port forwarding. In fact, it tops my guide on services to torrent with.
Another thing it has over the competition is a court-proven no-logs policy. Not once, but twice has PIA been taken to court to provide information on its users, and both times it had nothing to offer. This is something only shared by ExpressVPN on this list – although this doesn't mean the other providers aren't to be trusted.
It's not all good with Private Internet Access, though. Connection speeds are one of its downfalls, and in my testing it topped out at a below-average 320 Mbps. Of course, if your connection doesn't go that fast, that's nothing to worry about. But, if you pay for an uncontested gigabit line, you'll likely want to sign up to a provider that can match that.
Also, PIA's Mac apps are quite complex, due to how much functionality is packed in there. This won't be an issue if you're willing to learn the software and configure it the way you like, but if you're looking for a simple one-and-done experience, it's probably not for you.
Overall, PIA is one of the most capable Mac VPN apps I've tested, and unlike some other providers, it doesn't make compromises on macOS compared to Windows. If you'll use the features at your disposal, go for it – if not, pick up a different VPN.
Feature | Comments | Rating |
---|---|---|
Design | Loads of customization options, can be a bit overwhelming | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Ease of use | Great for tech-savvy users, not too beginner-friendly | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | Decent speeds but falls behind the industry heavyweights like NordVPN and Surfshark | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Unblocking | 10,000+ servers in 91 countries for smooth and fast content unblocking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Security and privacy | Best-in-class encryption with a proven no-log policy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Customer support | Adequate resources, plenty of guides, and a contact form to reach the team | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price | One of the cheapest VPNs, all the more ideal for the long term. | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How we test the best Mac VPN services
Knowing how we test VPNs is obviously important, and you can check out a full breakdown of our testing methods – but here's the quick version.
For a start, we never take the claims of providers at face value. We always put them to the test for ourselves with our dedicated in-house VPN team who love getting hands-on. In fact we test every six months so you can be sure our verdicts are up to date with the latest versions of each VPN.
Once we sign up for a VPN plan we install it on a range of devices, including Macs, and then put it through its paces. While using the VPN we'll evaluate the performance and ease of use and investigate any questions that arise. We're not afraid to dig into source code and get our hands dirty.
Streaming performance is also a big part of using a VPN and we don't skimp on testing here either. We test each VPN with all the major streaming platforms and with Netflix in particular very fussy when it comes to VPNs, we test it each month.
How to choose a Mac VPN
- Privacy – When making your choice, privacy should always come first – even if you're only planning on streaming overseas Netflix. There are many great services that have been audited and offer zero-logging policies, so there's no need to make sacrifices in this area.
- Functionality – Consider what you'll be using your Mac VPN for. Do you torrent a lot? Make sure your chosen provider allows P2P on a good range of servers. Love TV? Ensure that your VPN has a flawless unblocking record. Good speeds are also a priority, but recent advances in VPN protocol tech means almost all VPNs are capable of delivering speeds far faster than the average domestic internet line.
- Usability – The app interface is a very important part of a VPN – if you hate the experience, you're unlikely to use a VPN as much as you might like to. This is very subjective, but if you go for a more complex VPN like Proton VPN or Private Internet Access, it's worth bearing in mind you'll have 30 days to claim a refund if you don't get on with the software.
- Price – Finally, and most importantly for many, is price. Most VPNs cost between $3-5 a month if you choose the longest plan possible, and my #1 Mac VPN NordVPN fits neatly into this category.
Others, like ExpressVPN, are slightly more expensive – in this case, it's worth it if you value a slick, simple interface that makes everything super easy. Others still drop near the $2-a-month mark – although the only providers at this price I'd truly recommend are Surfshark and Private Internet Access.
Mac VPN FAQs
What is the best Mac VPN?
From my testing, I rate NordVPN the highest when it comes to VPNs for Mac. However, if you're looking to save some money, Surfshark offers a comparable service for a considerably cheaper price, and if you're a beginner looking for a super simple experience, ExpressVPN will be perfect.
All these providers offer 256-AES encryption, and are independently audited, meaning you can trust them to anonymise your connections effectively, whatever you're browsing. Plus, they're some of the best services for unblocking streaming sites, too.
Do Macs need VPNs?
Due to the fact that Macs are widely regarded as a safer option than Windows PCs, you might be asking yourself whether you need a VPN on your Mac. However, despite macOS's built in protections, there's absolutely nothing any PC can do, Windows or Mac, once your data has entered the ether of the internet on an unsecured connection. That's where a Mac VPN comes in.
A VPN provides you with a safe, secure network to access the internet on wherever you are – whether you want to torrent safely at home or work on public Wi-Fi when you're out and about.
Macs are great at stopping malicious software getting into your computer, but they can't do anything once your data has left. A VPN is the only way to do that.
Can you get a free Mac VPN?
There are a number of free VPN services that can get you by in a pinch – and thankfully all of them work on Mac. However, there are some big sacrifices you'll need to make.
If you're not careful, you could risk having your data compromised – so make sure to make your choice from our recommendations.
You'll also find restrictions like server locations, connection speed, and data caps on many providers. Our top pick is Proton VPN Free, but we'd still recommend making the most of a paid provider's 30-day money-back guarantee over using a free service.
Does my Mac have a VPN built in?
Short answer: no.
All Macs have the functionality to support VPN usage, but Apple doesn't provide it's own VPN software. Therefore, if you want real privacy, you'll have to use a third-party service.
The good news is there's a huge amount to choose from, and we think the five on this page are the absolute cream of the crop.
How do I get a Mac VPN?
Getting a Mac VPN is as simple – if not simpler – than on a Windows device. Firstly it's a good idea to sign up to a VPN plan, and then you'll have two options.
On the one hand, you can download the VPN software directly from the VPN provider's website. You'll end up with a .DMG file, which you can then install. In the process you'll likely have to give the software permissions.
On the other, many VPNs have apps available in the Apple App Store. Here, you can install the app, accept the same permissions and you're away. In either case, after that stage you'll need to input your login details and get covered.
Is a Mac VPN legal?
Short answer: yes, it's legal to use a VPN on Mac.
However, using a VPN doesn't make illegal acts acceptable in the eyes of the law. Many people have associated VPN usage with criminal activity, but that stigma is fading due to the services becoming more mainstream and their legal uses becoming better known.
However, the anonymity a VPN provides is attractive to those breaking the law. All we can say is that we do not condone any unlawful usage of VPNs, and encourage our readers to make the most of what they can provide within the confines of the law.
Are Mac VPNs different to other VPNs?
In essence, not really. While macOS is different to Windows, iOS, Linux, and Android, for you, there's very little difference in how a VPN will behave – much like Microsoft Word or Photoshop.
However, there may be some differences under the surface. For example, many Mac VPNs still use IKEv2 in preference to WireGuard or OpenVPN. In some case, there are fewer features – split tunneling is often omitted, for example.
In practise, though, there's very little a quality Mac VPN can't do compared to a VPN on Windows, especially if you pick from my hand-tested selection here.
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Mo is VPN Editor at Tom's Guide. Day-to-day he oversees guides on the best VPNs, privacy, and cybersecurity content, and also undertakes independent testing of VPN services to ensure his recommendations are accurate and up to date. When he's not getting stuck into the depths of a VPN you've never heard of, you'll find him working on his Peugeot 205 GTi or watching Peep Show instead of finally putting up those shelves.
- Krishi ChowdharyContributor