This guide will walk you through the process of installing the best VPN for Mac, ensuring a secure and anonymous connection to the internet. After extensive testing of various VPN providers, we have determined that Surfshark is the top choice for Mac users. Our detailed explanation of why follows below.
Recently, a bill passed by the House of Representatives allows Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to sell your browsing data to third parties without requiring your consent.
Additionally, reports suggest that Apple may “access, disclose, and retain personal data” when you use any iOS-based Apple device. These developments raise significant privacy concerns, and using a VPN is one of the most effective solutions to protect your online privacy.
Top Benefits of Using the Best VPN for Mac
Why should you consider using a VPN on your Mac? There are numerous reasons why thousands of users, including cord-cutters, rely on Surfshark for their Macs and other devices.
Protect Your Online Identity
Installing a top-rated VPN on your Mac provides you with an encrypted internet connection, ensuring that your online activities—such as downloads, streaming, and browsing—remain private and secure.
Additionally, a VPN masks the IP address assigned by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), making it nearly impossible for anyone to trace the origin of your connection, thereby enhancing your anonymity online.
Block Ads and Malware
Surfshark stands out as the best VPN for Mac due to its CleanWeb feature, which effectively blocks intrusive ads and malware while protecting against various cyber threats. This functionality is not commonly found in most VPNs.
Such a feature is particularly crucial for users who access movie and sports streaming sites, as it enhances their viewing experience by minimizing interruptions and safeguarding their devices from potential attacks.
Traveling & Protection from Public Wi-Fi
For travelers, utilizing a VPN on your Mac is an essential tool when connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots.
Surfshark encrypts your internet traffic, ensuring that hackers cannot intercept your connection, providing you with a secure online experience while on the go.
Faster Speeds
Surfshark is also regarded as the best VPN for Macs due to its impressive speed. As one of the fastest VPN providers on the market, it ensures a seamless online experience.
With a high-speed VPN like Surfshark, you may even notice increased download speeds. Many Internet Service Providers implement throttling for specific streaming sites, allowing you to enjoy smoother streaming and faster downloads without interruptions.
Torrenting
Many users opt for a VPN on their Mac when downloading torrents, as torrenting has become a popular method for accessing movies, TV shows, games, software, books, and more.
Using a VPN for Mac while torrenting is essential; without it, your IP address is exposed to the public, leaving you vulnerable to potential threats and malicious activities. A VPN helps protect your identity and ensures a secure downloading experience.
Unblock Websites
Another reason Surfshark is considered the best VPN for Mac is its capability to unblock websites restricted to specific geographical regions.
Surfshark bypasses geographical censorship, which is particularly beneficial for users in countries like Russia, Ukraine, and other regions where access to certain sites is limited. This ensures you can browse freely and access the content you need, regardless of your location.
Unlimited Devices
One of Surfshark VPN’s standout features is its support for unlimited devices with a single account, making it an excellent choice for more than just your Mac.
In households with numerous internet-connected devices, having a VPN provider that allows unlimited connections is essential. With Surfshark, you can protect all your devices, including Firesticks, Android TV boxes, Mac computers, iOS devices, Android phones, tablets, and more, all under one account. This flexibility ensures comprehensive security for every device in your home.
Follow this step-by-step guide, complete with screenshots, to install the best VPN for your Mac.
Step 1: Register for a Surfshark account. Click Here for a Discount.
Step 2: Go to the Surfshark download page for Mac and click on “Get Surfshark.”
Step 3: You will receive a prompt about opening Surfshark. Click “OK.”
Step 4: Drag the Surfshark VPN app icon into your Applications folder.
Step 5: Open your Applications folder on your Mac and locate the Surfshark VPN app.
Step 6: When prompted, click “Open.”
Step 7: Launch the Surfshark application on your Mac and click “Agree & Continue.”
Step 8: Log in to Surfshark using your email address and password.
Note: After registering for an account, you will receive an email from Surfshark with your login information.
Step 9: Once logged in, click “Quick Connect.”
Step 10: When prompted, click “Add VPN Configuration.”
Step 11: Click “Allow.”
Step 12: That’s it! You have successfully downloaded Surfshark for Mac.
Step 13: To verify that your Surfshark VPN connection is working, visit dnsleaktest.com; your IP address should now be different.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed the best VPN for Mac and can now enjoy your online activities anonymously.
Best VPN for Mac – Settings
Another advantage of Surfshark as the best VPN for Mac is its extensive customization options.
To access the various features available within Surfshark, click on “Settings” in the left-hand menu.
Next, click on “VPN Settings,” where you’ll find a range of features you can customize within Surfshark for Mac. We provide further details below.
One notable feature offered by Surfshark is CleanWeb, which blocks ads, malware, and trackers while also providing additional protection when using unverified websites or applications.
The Kill Switch feature will block internet access if you lose your connection to Surfshark.
What sets Surfshark apart is that, unlike many VPNs, its Kill Switch functionality works seamlessly on Firesticks and Android TV Boxes as well!
The VPN Protocol refers to the connection protocol utilized by the application.
Surfshark offers several options, including WireGuard®, OpenVPN (UDP), OpenVPN (TCP), and an Automatic setting.
If you’re experiencing connectivity issues with your VPN app, switching your connection protocol in this section may resolve the problem.
Additionally, Surfshark’s Bypasser feature enables split tunneling, allowing users to select specific applications that can access the Internet without being routed through the encrypted VPN connection.
The Invisible on LAN feature ensures that devices connected to your local area network (LAN) cannot detect your VPN connection.
Rotating IP is a unique functionality that changes your IP address while keeping your VPN location constant.
Another impressive setting is NoBorders, which facilitates internet access and connectivity in various regions worldwide.
Finally, to switch VPN servers, return to the Surfshark VPN app’s home screen and click on “Locations” in the main menu.
From there, you can select the country you want to connect to. Surfshark offers access to over 3,200 servers in 65 countries worldwide, giving you plenty of options.
You can also save specific servers to your Favorites, as we did with Chicago and Kansas City in this example.
For a more comprehensive understanding of Surfshark VPN, check out our detailed review below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best VPN for my Mac?
Look for features such as strong encryption, fast speeds, ease of use, and compatibility with multiple devices. Surfshark is highly recommended for its performance and extensive features.
Is it safe to use a VPN on my Mac?
Yes, using a VPN on your Mac enhances your online security by encrypting your internet connection and protecting your data from potential threats.
Can I use Surfshark on multiple devices?
Absolutely! Surfshark allows unlimited connections so that you can protect all your devices with a single account.
What if I experience connectivity issues?
If you encounter problems, try switching the VPN protocol or reconnecting to a different server. You can also check your internet connection.
Does Surfshark work with streaming services?
Yes, Surfshark is optimized for streaming and can help you bypass geo-restrictions on various platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, and more.
How do I verify that my VPN is working?
After connecting to Surfshark, visit a site like dnsleaktest.com to ensure your IP address has changed and that your connection is secure.
Can I use Surfshark for torrenting?
Yes, Surfshark supports torrenting and offers features to protect your privacy while downloading files.
What should I do if I forget my Surfshark password?
You can reset your password by clicking on the “Forgot password?” link on the Surfshark login page. Follow the prompts to recover your account.
Conclusion
Choosing the best VPN for Mac is essential for ensuring your online privacy and security in 2024. Surfshark stands out as an excellent option, offering a robust set of features, including strong encryption, fast speeds, and user-friendly settings. Its support for unlimited devices, ability to bypass geo-restrictions, and additional protections like CleanWeb make it a top choice for both casual users and those who prioritize privacy.
By following our step-by-step installation guide, you can quickly set up Surfshark on your Mac and enjoy an anonymous and secure browsing experience. Whether you’re streaming content, torrenting, or simply browsing the web, Surfshark provides the tools you need to navigate the internet safely.
