Even if you believe that your Mac is entirely protected from online security perils, there are various reasons why using a VPN service for your Mac system is growing an ever more common thing to do on Apple devices.
Whether it is because you intend to use your Macbook to access sites that are banned by your workplace, school or ISP (or even your state!) or only want to watch different TV shows, getting a Mac VPN is logical.
And due to Apple’s desktop devices and MacBooks are being frequently targeted by cybercriminals, it never pays to let your guard down. Getting the best Mac VPN, you can is an excellent way to help give you extra online security.
As well as robust antivirus, folks with a Mac require an excellent VPN just as much as anybody on Windows – although not each one of the best VPN choices gives a customer or adequate support for macOS users. Nevertheless, if you are stuck as to which provider to go with, help is at hand with BestVPNAnalysis’s dedicated best Mac VPN guide.
Best Mac VPN
1. NordVPN
- Double encryption for added security
- Automatic kill switch
- A variety of platform support
- Six simultaneous connections
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- 3-Day free trial
2. ExpressVPN
- Unlimited Bandwidth with Ultra Speed
- Provides all VPN protocols OpenVPN (TCP, UDP), L2TP-IPsec, SSTP, and PPTP
- Dedicated VPN Apps for Android & iOS
- High-End Security with OpenVPN 256-bits
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- 3 simultaneous connections
3. Surfshark
- AES 256-Bit Network Encryption
- Chrome Extension Available
- Kill-Switch functionality
- A variety of platform support
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
4. CyberGhost
- Uses AES 256 Encryption
- Supports OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and PPTP
- DNS & IP Leak Protection
- Uses 2048 Key & MD5 Authentication
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- Up to 7 Simultaneous Connections
5. Private Internet Access
- Offers all Protocols PPTP, OpenVPN and L2TP/IPSec including SOCKS5 Proxy
- IPv6 Leak Protection & DNS Leak Protection
- Kill-Switch functionality
- Encrypted Wi-Fi Protection
- Zero log keeping policy of internet activities
- 10 simultaneous connections
Picking the Best VPN Service: How We Ranked & Compared These VPNs
Every VPN service on my list has met my strict criteria for usability. I experimented with more than fifteen factors, which include speed, streaming, server locations, P2P support, security and logging policies, price, customer support, and compatibility.
Here are some of the most significant things I looked for:
Powerful Security
All of the VPN services on this list use military-grade encryption and keep a stringent no-logs policy.
I gave preference to services that provide an automatic kill switch and DNS leak protection.
I looked for services that use OpenVPN protocol as standard. This protocol is open-source and regularly audited for security issues. It’s widely regarded as the safest VPN protocol to use.
Fast Speeds
Speed is one of the most important aspects of choosing a VPN. It’s frustrating and impractical to deal with substantial loading times and buffering.
It is usual for your connection to slow down a little when you connect to a VPN. Your data has to go further to reach the VPN server, and it takes time to encrypt and decrypt your data. However, this should be scarcely obvious when utilizing a premium VPN.
All the VPN services on this list consistently met the speed provisions to torrent and stream in high-definition during my tests.
Unblock Streaming Services
Streaming services such as Hulu and Netflix use geo-blocks to control the content you watch. For instance, the Netflix catalog in Australia covers around half the titles available to US viewers.
VPNs hide your IP address to help you surmount blocks and stream content from other countries, including BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and Hulu.
I ensured that all the services on my list could unblock at least two favorite streaming services during my tests.
FAQ
Do I need a VPN to protect my Mac?
macOS’ built-in security characteristics are robust. But, they become unfathomable when you pair them with a good VPN.
VPNs use encryption to shield your personal information from cyber thieves.
And, although Apple Gatekeeper is a serviceable measure against malware execution, a VPN service with a built-in malware blocker will stop an attack before it enters your device.
Concealing your IP address with a VPN is the most straightforward way to shield yourself against DDoS attacks, doxing, and internet surveillance. It will also help you circumvent geo-blocks and censorship — an area where macOS falls short.
There is a reason antivirus purchases are dropping worldwide. Many users are opting to couple macOS’ security suite with a VPN instead of buying an antivirus suite.
What are the best VPNs for iOS?
All of the VPNs on my list give great iOS apps, too.
Are free VPNs safe?
In short – no. Businesses need to make money, and VPN businesses are no different. If they are not making money from their product, they have to find alternate means to turn a profit.
Some free VPNs create revenue by selling users’ data to third parties, even if they have assured top-notch security. A few have also been exposed to install malware and trackers on your device.
There are some safe free VPNs, though.
These are the free versions of premium VPN services with minimal servers and features, such as Hotspot Shield. These free VPN services heavily restrict your speed and data, but they can be a right choice if you only need a VPN for a few days.
But with various premium providers offering free trials and money-back guarantees, there is very little reason to jeopardize your security with a free VPN.
Read more: How to Unblock Websites From Anywhere
Are VPNs legal?
Using a VPN is lawful in about 95.9% of the world.
The main exemptions are China, Iraq, Iran, Russia, Belarus, Turkey, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. In these regions, VPN use is either a legal gray area or downright illegal.
But if you are a tourist in one of these countries, you do not need to worry. There have not been any issues with international tourists using VPNs in these countries.
No matter where you live, it is your responsibility to ensure you follow the law and your provider’s terms of service at all times.
Are VPNs available for other devices, too?
Yes! VPN services are available for almost every device. The top three VPN services on my list support all devices and operating systems, so you can quickly secure your macOS, phone, smart TV, gaming console, and any other device you need to protect.
Conclusion -Best Mac VPN
I have tested each VPN service on this list to ensure it meets my strict criteria for speed, security, and usability. My top recommendation is NordVPN because of its powerful and feature-rich macOS apps. You can give a trial to NordVPN risk-free on your Mac with its 30-day money-back guarantee.