Most VPN providers offer a VPN app for Mac computers, but with so many options available it can be difficult to choose the right provider. Based on our extensive research and practical testing of VPNs over the years, these are the most important factors to consider when choosing a VPN:
confidentiality
The primary consideration for any VPN, including Mac VPNs, should be privacy. If your Mac VPN is unable to adequately protect your online privacy, your VPN is useless. At a minimum, your VPN should employ industry standard AES 256-bit encryption (with OpenVPN or IKEv2) vpn protocol) or Chacha20 (with WireGuard or IKEv2 VPN protocols), as well as offers basic privacy protections like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a no-logs policy. For critical privacy needs, you’ll also want a VPN provider that is based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, offers obscurity, and has a RAM-only server architecture. Additional privacy features to look for include Tor over VPN capabilities, ad and tracker blockers, and multihop connections. Also, look for a VPN that undergoes regular third-party security audits, as audits can help increase confidence in the VPN’s ability to protect its users’ privacy.
pace
Mac computers are generally considered very fast, so you’ll probably want fast vpn Which can provide excellent speed. The speed of your VPN can have a big impact on activities like streamingDownloading, video conferencing, gaming and general web browsing. All VPNs slow down your connection speed to some extent, so to keep things running as smoothly as possible, you’ll want to look for a VPN that will have as little impact as possible on your regular internet speed. Generally, the best VPNs reduce your Internet download speeds by an average of 25% or less, while the best performers – NordVPN, Mullvad and Surfshark – reduce average download speeds by less than 20%.
disposable
macOS is designed to be clean and intuitive, so if you’re used to understanding the operating system, you’ll probably want a similar experience with the VPN software you use. A good Mac VPN should run smoothly and have a streamlined user interface that is easy to use regardless of your technical expertise. It should have a large network of servers around the world so you can connect easily and reliably from wherever you are, and it should be able to help you access geo-restricted content from different regions. You should also consider advanced features, such as specialized servers (e.g. Tor over VPN And confused server, Double Hop/Multi-HopA dedicated IP address and split tunneling (which lets you use the VPN connection for some VPN apps but not others).
Cost
VPN pricing varies significantly from provider to provider, so if you’re on a budget, you may want to consider the cost and overall value of your macOS VPN. Typically, you can expect to spend around $5 to $13 per month for a monthly VPN subscription plan. If you want to save money, you can opt for an annual subscription, where prices can range from around $30 to $100 per year. However, be careful with free VPNs, as if you choose the free option you may be jeopardizing your privacy instead of protecting it. ProtonVPN is currently the only free vpn Which CNET recommends. However, most VPNs offer a money-back guarantee that can last anywhere from a week to 45 days. You can also get a seven-day free trial with many VPNs if you sign up through Apple’s App Store. So you’ll probably have the option to try out different Mac VPNs risk-free before deciding to make a full investment in one.
device support
You’ll want a VPN that works well on your Mac devices, such as your MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac Mini, Mac Studio, or Mac Pro. Additionally, if you’re deeply involved in the Apple ecosystem, you may want to consider a VPN that works well for you iPhoneipad and even Apple TVThankfully, most VPNs support MacOS and iOS/iPadOS, and Apple TV compatibility is becoming increasingly common. With most VPN providers, you can install a VPN on all your Mac devices, from MacBooks and Mac desktops to iPhones, iPads, and Apple TV streaming boxes.
streaming
VPNs can improve your streaming experience due to their ability to hide your public IP address, making apps and websites think you are in a different geographic location. For example, you can use a VPN to unblock region-restricted content, like watching Max (formerly HBO Max) while traveling outside the US, or BBC iPlayer while vacationing outside the UK. Alternatively, you can access overseas Netflix, Disney Plus and Amazon Prime Video libraries. Think about the streaming services you want to use with a VPN, and make sure those apps work with your desired VPN service. If you want to install a VPN on your smart TVandroid tv device, amazon fire tv Or Apple TVMake sure your VPN provider has a compatible app for that device.