9 Best VPN For Mac in 2025,Jun– Free/Paid Fast & Secure
Do you feel happy when your Mac connects to a free public Wi-Fi? Maybe you’re at a café, airport or hotel, and suddenly your device gets 100% internet access. What do you do? You start browsing, downloading files, watching videos or maybe even logging into your bank accounts thinking everything is safe. But wait! Is it really safe? If not, then how can the best VPN for Mac save you? Let’s see!
Have you ever thought about who might be spying your online activity behind the scenes? Free Wi-Fi may feel convenient, but it often comes with hidden risks. Your internet connection might not be as private as you think, and that’s where things start to get worse.
If you’re using your Mac for professional tasks, banking, research, or even content streaming, your online actions deserve protection. And that’s exactly where a VPN for Mac comes in.
In this blog, we’ll tell you how you can protect your privacy using a VPN specifically made for Mac. We’re also sharing a list of the best VPN for Mac that allows you to connect to a private server with just one click. These VPNs come packed with advanced security features that can seriously upgrade the safety level of your internet connection. So, do not worry about hackers! They won’t be able to trace you at all.
Now, let’s dive in and find out how you can keep your Mac experience safe, smooth and truly private.
What is VPN for Mac?
So, what actually is a VPN for Mac. It refers to a tool that encrypts your internet connection and reroutes your traffic through a secure VPN server.
This tool masks your IP address, protects your personal data from hackers or surveillance and allows you to access restricted content across the globe directly from your MacBook. You can think of it as a private tunnel between your Mac and the internet. Nobody else can peep inside!
9 Best VPN For Mac in 2025
Now that you know what VPN for mac is, let’s now list all the top 9 best VPN for Mac 2025 that offers the best security and 100% privacy when you’re connected to a public wifi or maybe let’s say you’re streaming online.
Here, you can find for yourself the best free VPN for Mac that gives you everything you need to keep yourself shielded when surfing the internet.
⏰ TL;DR:
1. ExpressVPN – Overall Best VPN for macOS
2. NordVPN – Best VPN for macOS
3. SurfShark – Budget-Friendly VPN for macOS
4. ProtonVPN – Best Free Private VPN for MacOS
5. PrivateInternetAccess – Customizable VPN for macOS
6. CyberGhost – VPN with Streaming Support for macOS
7. IPVanish – Fast VPN with Unlimited Connections for macOS
8. PureVPN – Fast, Unlimited VPN for macOS
9. Windscribe – Best Free VPN for macOS
1. ExpressVPN – Overall Best VPN for macOS
What’s the first VPN for Mac? It is ExpressVPN, a user-friendly VPN that offers a simple interface, making it perfect for new users. It provides access to over 3,000 servers across 105 countries, ensuring fast and trustworthy connections across the world.
The VPN service supports various devices, including iPhones, MacBook and even the routers, allowing users to protect multiple apple devices at the same time. ExpressVPN uses strong encryption to keep your online activities private and secure. Along with that, it offers 24/7 customer support to assist users whenever needed.
If we talk about the casual users like students, wanting to scrape data for science projects, ExpressVPN offers immense benefit, due to its user-friendly interface and high-speed connections, ensuring smooth browsing.
Key Features
- TrustedServer Technology: The VPN servers operate entirely on RAM, meaning no data is stored on hard drives. This approach ensures that all information is wiped with every reboot, boosting user privacy.
- Lightway Protocol: This protocol is designed for speed and reliability. It connects quickly and maintains stable connections, even on unstable networks, providing a smoother browsing experience.
- Threat Manager: This feature blocks apps and websites from communicating with trackers and malicious sites, offering an additional layer of privacy and security during online activities.
Pricing
- $4.99 per month
Pro and Cons
- User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.
- Extensive server network across 105 countries.
- Strong commitment to user privacy with no activity logs.
- Limited to five simultaneous device connections.
- Higher pricing compared to some other VPN services
2. NordVPN – Best VPN for macOS
We also have a small feature that remote workers and freelancers can securely access work resources with, and that is via Meshnet, which functions like a virtual LAN, facilitating secure collaboration and file sharing.
This VPN tool is also the best option for gamers, thanks to its ultra-fast speeds and low latency, enhancing their gameplay. Privacy-conscious users are protected by NordVPN’s strict no-logs policy, RAM-only servers and advanced encryption protocols.
Advanced security features like the Kill Switch prevent data leaks by disabling internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. Along with that, NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro offers ad blocking, malware scanning, and anti-phishing tools, providing an extra layer of security.
Key Features
- Meshnet: Allows users to connect up to 60 devices into a secure network, facilitating activities like file sharing, remote access, and LAN gaming.
- Threat Protection Pro: Provides comprehensive cybersecurity tools, including ad blocking, malware scanning, anti-phishing, scam alerts, and vulnerability scanning.
- RAM-Only Servers: All servers operate without hard drives, ensuring that no data is stored locally and enhancing user privacy.
Pricing
- $2.99 per month
Pro and Cons
- 7,300 servers in 118 countries
- Includes RAM-only servers and a strict no-logs policy.
- User-friendly interface with support for multiple devices.
- Advanced features may require a learning curve for new users.
- Certain features, like Dedicated IP, come at an additional cost.
3. SurfShark – Budget-Friendly VPN for macOS
Why SurfShark? See! It offers a user-friendly solution for online privacy! With over 3,200 RAM-only servers across 100+ countries, it ensures fast and secure connections worldwide.
The RAM-only infrastructure means that no data is stored on physical drives, enhancing user privacy. Surfshark employs advanced encryption protocols, including WireGuard, to shield user data effectively. The built-in Kill Switch feature automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks to your ISP.
New users can take advantage of a 7-day free trial on iOS and macOS platforms, allowing them to experience the VPN service risk-free. The interface is designed for simplicity, featuring one-click connectivity and intuitive navigation, making it accessible even for new VPN users.
Key Features
- Kill Switch: This feature automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental exposure of your real IP address.
- WireGuard Protocol: SurfShark makes use of a modern, high-speed VPN protocol that offers enhanced security and faster connection speeds across all devices.
- CleanWeb Feature: It blocks ads, trackers and malicious websites, providing a cleaner, faster, and safer browsing experience.
Pricing
- $1.99 per month
Pro and Cons
- Offers unlimited simultaneous device connections.
- Provides a 7-day free trial on Android, iOS, and macOS platforms
- Employs RAM-only servers for enhanced privacy and security
- Split tunneling feature is not available on Linux platforms
- Free trial is limited to mobile and macOS platforms
4. ProtonVPN – Best Free Private VPN for MacOS
Now, we’ve ProtonVPN, a privacy-focused VPN tool that is developed by the team behind ProtonMail. Headquartered in Switzerland, Proton VPN benefits from the country’s strong privacy laws and is 100% committed to provide secure and private internet access.
The service offers both free and paid plans, catering to a wide range of users seeking online anonymity.Proton VPN’s free plan stands out by offering unlimited bandwidth without any data caps, which is uncommon among free VPN services.
Users are automatically connected to the fastest available server among five countries: the United States, Netherlands, Japan, Romania, and Poland.
Key Features
- NetShield: An advanced ad-blocking and malware protection feature that blocks harmful websites and intrusive ads, improving browsing speed and security.
- Tor over VPN: Allows users to access the Tor network directly through Proton VPN servers, providing an additional layer of anonymity without the need for the Tor browser.
- Open-Source Applications: Proton VPN’s apps are fully open-source and have undergone independent security audits, promoting transparency..
Pricing
- $4.49 per month
Pro and Cons
- Unlimited bandwidth on the free plan.
- Strong security protocols and encryption.
- It is an OpenSource application
- Free users cannot select specific server locations
- Limited to one device connection on the free plan
5. PrivateInternetAccess – Customizable VPN for macOS
Let’s see what PIA, which happens to be Private Internet Access, has to offer! So, It is a VPN service designed to help users access restricted content and maintain online privacy.
By encrypting your internet connection, PIA allows you to bypass censored content, restricted media 24/7 without break, enabling access to websites that may be unavailable in your region. It also shields your online activities from ISP and potential surveillance, ensuring your browsing remains private.
Wanna know about its unique features? The Kill Switch prevents data leaks if the VPN connection cuts, while Split Tunneling lets you choose which apps you want to use the VPN. Moreover, PIA offers a privacy-focused antivirus that scans and removes malware without logging your activity.
Key Features
- MACE Ad Blocker: MACE is PIA’s built-in ad blocker that operates at the DNS level to block ads, trackers and malware across all apps and browsers.
- Privacy-First Antivirus: PIA offers an Antivirus that scans and removes malware from your device without tracking your activity or logging data. This ensures your system is protected from threats while maintaining your privacy.
- Open-Source Transparency: VPNs of PIA are 100% open-source, allowing anyone to inspect the code for security and privacy assurance.
Pricing
- $1.71 per month
Pro and Cons
- Advanced Split Tunneling with customizable options.
- Privacy-focused Antivirus that doesn’t log user data.
- Open-source apps for transparency and trust.
- Limited server locations compared to some competitors.
- Antivirus feature currently available only for Windows.
6. CyberGhost – VPN with Streaming Support for macOS
Our research team feels glad to present CyberGhost’s VPN services as one of the top 9 best VPN for Mac! The tools are 100% privacy-focused that encrypt your internet traffic and mask your IP address to prevent tracking by ISPs or hackers.
For Mac users, it offers an easy to use interface and specialized servers optimized for streaming and torrenting, ensuring fast and secure connections. With over 11,000 servers in 100 countries, including dedicated servers for P2P sharing and streaming, users can access geo-restricted content and download files anonymously.
The features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy further enhance privacy. Let’s say you’re streaming videos or downloading torrents, CyberGhost ensures your online activities remain private.
Key Features
- Specialized Servers for Streaming and Torrenting: CyberGhost offers servers for streaming services like Netflix and for P2P file sharing, ensuring fast connections.
- Automatic Kill Switch: This feature automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing any data leaks and maintaining your anonymity too.
- Dedicated IP Address: This means that users can opt for a unique IP address, reducing the chances of CAPTCHA prompts.
Pricing
- $1.93 per month
Pro and Cons
- Extensive server network across numerous countries
- User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.
- Strong security features like AES 256-bit encryption and strict no-logs policy.
- Monthly subscription can be relatively expensive
- Ad-blocking features may not block all ads effectively.
7. IPVanish – Fast VPN with Unlimited Connections for macOS
Next in the list, we’ve IPVanish, which is a VPN tool for Mac that prioritizes user privacy and security. It employs AES 256-bit encryption to protect your internet traffic from hackers & ISPs.
The service has a strict no-logs policy, independently verified, ensuring that your online activities are not recorded or stored. A key feature is the Kill Switch, which automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.
IPVanish also offers Threat Protection, which blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, enhancing your browsing experience. To prevent DNS leaks, IPVanish routes your DNS queries through its own encrypted servers, keeping your online activities private.
Key Features
- Threat Protection: Blocks intrusive ads, online trackers, and malicious websites, providing a safer and cleaner browsing experience across various devices.
- TV Kill Switch App: IPVanish offers a unique Kill Switch solution for your Fire TV and Android TV devices, maintaining high level of privacy even if the VPN connection drops.
- Verified No-Logs Policy: It works under a strict no-logs policy, independently audited to confirm that no user activity or connection logs are stored.
Pricing
- $2.19 per month
Pro and Cons
- Strict no-logs policy ensures user privacy.
- Advanced Threat Protection enhances online security.
- Kill Switch feature prevents data leaks during connection drops.
- Based in the U.S., subject to data requests by authorities.
- Not all streaming services are accessible due to VPN detection
8. PureVPN – Fast, Unlimited VPN for macOS
Then, we’ve placed PureVPN that enhances online data scraping security and safeguards digital identities from ISPs, hackers and government surveillance. By encrypting internet traffic with AES 256-bit encryption, it ensures that sensitive data remains secret.
Features like the Kill Switch prevent accidental exposure by disconnecting the internet if the VPN connection cuts. Obfuscation servers disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS, making it undetectable.
Plus, PureVPN’s strict no-log policy ensures that user activities aren’t recorded, offering peace of mind during web browsing. With tools like Tracker Blocker and Dark Web Monitoring, users receive comprehensive protection against various online threats, ensuring a secure browsing experience.
Key Features
- Remove My Data: This feature automates opt-out requests to over 130 data brokers, helping users reclaim their personal information and reduce digital footprints.
- Quantum-Resistant Encryption: PureVPN employs encryption methods designed to withstand potential future threats posed by quantum computing, ensuring long-term data security.
- Dark Web Monitoring: This feature continuously scans the dark web for users’ personal information and alerts them if any data breaches are detected, allowing for prompt action.
Pricing
- $2.16 per month
Pro and Cons
- Extensive global server network across 78+ countries.
- Supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections.
- Offers advanced security features like Kill Switch and DNS Leak Protection.
- No Free Trial available
- Pricing structure can be confusing for new users.
9. Windscribe – Best Free VPN for macOS
Last in the category, we’ve added Windscribe VPN for Mac, which offers a robust and diverse network, with servers spanning over 69 countries and 134 cities. Unlike some providers, Windscribe ensures that all its servers are physically located in the advertised countries, avoiding virtual locations.
The infrastructure includes RAM-disk servers, which do not write data to hard drives, enhancing privacy by ensuring that all information is lost upon reboot. Furthermore, many servers support 10 Gbps uplinks, providing high-speed connections.
Windscribe employs strong encryption protocols and a strict no-logs policy to protect user identity online. For SEO professionals engaged in data scraping, Windscribe’s security features offer a safe environment, minimizing the risk of exposure or data leaks.
Key Features
- R.O.B.E.R.T Technology: A customizable tool that blocks IPs and domains of your choice, protecting against malware and unwanted content.
- Split Tunneling: Allows users to route specific apps or IP addresses through the VPN, while others access the internet directly, optimizing performance and access.
- MAC Address Spoofing: Generates a new MAC address on each network connection, preventing tracking across different Wi-Fi networks.
Pricing
- $5.75 per month
Pro and Cons
- Extensive global server network with physical locations.
- User-friendly interface with customizable settings.
- Strong encryption and privacy-focused features.
- Free version has a 10GB monthly data cap.
- Some advanced features may require technical knowledge to configure.
Best Free VPNs for Mac
Wanting to know the free VPNs online? OK! Exclusively for Mac users who are new to VPNs, we’ve listed the top 3 best free VPNs that offer solid-core security features, multiple VPN servers, one-click connection and advanced-level privacy protection and that too all at zero cost.
- ProtonVPN: It offers the most secure VPN service, thanks to its privacy features. It provides upto 12,000 VPN servers across 117 countries, giving more user anonymity through its Secure Core routing feature via privacy-friendly countries.
- SurfShark: With over 3,200 RAM-only servers in 100+ countries, it ensures high-speed and secure connections. Features like Dynamic MultiHop, which is also called double VPN, obfuscated servers and a strict no-logs policy boost user anonymity.
- NordVPN: We’ve listed this VPN provider as it is known for its speed, reliable service on various devices and extensive feature set. Based in Panama, it offers private DNS, Double VPN tools and a verified no-logs policy.
All the VPN providers mentioned above offer VPN free trial and 30 days money back guarantee. So, you can simply register, put in necessary details and start with VPN services for free.
What VPN features should Mac users look for?
See! It feels like finding a needle in a haystack! With hundreds of “top-rated” VPNs on the internet, each claiming to be faster, safer, it’s really difficult to choose the best one. To help you out of this loop, we’ve listed some top features every Mac user should look for in a VPN.
MacOS Compatibility
Not all VPNs play nice with Apple’s ecosystem. A good VPN for Mac should offer a dedicated macOS app that works without issues with Apple’s interface and supports the latest macOS versions. The app should be optimized for performance and UX like easy to install with a clean UI that feels just as simple as anything.
Strong Encryption & Privacy Protocols
Always look for providers that offer AES-256-bit encryption, which is actually a military-grade technology and nearly impossible to crack. On top of that, ensure the VPN supports trusted security protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2 or WireGuard. These features protect your personal data whether you’re working from a coffee shop or accessing geo-restricted content.
Strict Zero-Log Policy
Make sure that the VPN you choose has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t collect or store any data about your browsing, downloads or connection history. Who checks if a VPN provider follows strict log policies or not? A third-party audits no-logs policies which happens to be an independent cybersecurity firm that verifies a VPN keeps the log data or not.
Kill Switch & DNS Leak Protection
No one wants their private data getting leaked out of the blue suddenly, especially on public Wi-Fi! A good VPN for Mac should come with a kill switch, a feature that cuts off your internet right after the VPN connection drops, ensuring your data doesn’t leak outside the encrypted tunnel. Along with that, DNS leak protection ensures your DNS queries aren’t exposed to your ISP.
Access to Global Servers & Streaming Unblocker
A VPN isn’t just for security, it also lets you access content from around the world. Let’s say you’re trying to watch Netflix US, access BBC iPlayer, or unlock Spotify content, you need a VPN that has a large network of global servers and dedicated streaming capabilities. Some VPNs are blacklisted by streaming platforms, so choose one with a good track record of unblocking content.
How to Set Up a VPN on Mac? (Step-by-Step make sure to use image for every Step)
If you’re really thinking about how to set up a VPN on Mac, don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This quick guide is especially made for newbies, walking you through the entire process right from scratch. From choosing the right VPN to downloading, installing, and actually using it, we’ve broken everything down into simple steps. To make things even easier, we’ve included a few screenshots along the way so you won’t get lost during the setup process.
- Step1) Go to the official website of ExpressVPN >> Click the Download Mac VPN tab to proceed with the subscription, payment and installation.
For this step-by-step tutorial, we’ve picked ExpressVPN! OK Why ExpressVPN as it is easy to use, super fast when connecting or disconnecting from servers, and overall, it’s the best VPN for just about anything.
- Step2) Choose the best VPN plan as per your budget and requirement >> Pick the bigger billing period option for greater saving >> Click Select Plan or Get special deal tab.
- Step3) Enter your valid email id >> Review your VPN plan once before proceeding (if you wanna add dedicated IP for 2 years back-to-back, you need to pay more for that) >> Choose the payment gateway you like to subscribe a plan (Make sure to choose BitCoin payment as it is P2P and the most secure transaction known so far)
- Step4) Now, you’ll be directed to the home screen where you’ll find an activation code >> Copy the activation code >> Click on the Mac download button to start the downloading process >> Now, click on the Installer to proceed.
- Step5) It’ll ask you permission to install the app >> So, Click the Allow button.
- Step6) Press the Continue button of the Introduction popup.
- Step7) Choose the install location (By default, it’ll be set to your c-Drive) >> Now, once you’ve chosen the location >> Click on the install button.
- Step8) Now, as you do so, a screen pops up asking you for the device password >> Please fill this section to confirm your installation process.
- Step9) There’s a confirmation popup saying “The installation was successful.” (This means the ExpressVPN software is properly installed on your Mac, but there are still some configurations left to be done) >> Click the Close tab to move ahead for the final setup.
- Step10) This popup is a sort of a notification that tells you What New features you’re gonna unlock here at ExpressVPN >> Press the Continue tab.
- Step11) Now, paste the activation code that we talked about in Step4 >> Press Continue to confirm the installation process.
- Step12) To automatically launch ExpressVPN as soon as your Mac starts >> Press OK to confirm this configuration.
- Step13) So, lastly we’ve the interface right in front of us >> You can easily connect to the nearest server, simply by using the OneClick Connect button.
If you follow the steps properly, we guarantee you that you can easily install, configure the settings and use the VPN interface like the back of your hand.
How We Test and Pick the Best VPNs for MacOS in 2025?
Have you ever thought about how we are able to pick the best VPNs from so many options? See! It’s really simple! First we run some tests of every VPN and based on detailed performance reports, we pick the best VPNs for macOS [Safari] users. We also recommend you people to keep these testing parameters in mind, so you can easily pick a reliable VPN on your own.
- Interface & Ease of Use: We check if the VPN is user-friendly, with a simple layout and easy navigations.
- Supported Devices: A top VPN must support macOS and other platforms like iOS, Android, Windows, smart TVs and routers seamlessly.
- Customer Support: We test if the VPN offers 24/7 customer service through live chat or email, with fast and helpful responses.
- Does it Support Torrenting with VPN?: We normally see if it supports torrenting and if it does, then how good the speed is and we also check if P2P servers are clearly marked or not.
- Does VPN Unblock Streaming Web apps like Netflix, HBO, Disney+ etc: We try unlocking major platforms like Netflix, Disney+ and HBO Max to check bypassing ability of the VPN.
- Performance with Other Protocols: We test OpenVPN, WireGuard, and other protocols to ensure good speed, strong encryption and negligible connection drops.
- Speed Test: We compare download and upload speeds before and after enabling the VPN to track how much speed loss occurs.
- Does it Offer Trials?: We also check for free trials or money-back guarantees so users can test the VPN risk-free before making a commitment.
- Logs/Privacy?: We read privacy policies word-to-word in order to see if the VPN logs any personal data or online activity, which could risk your privacy.
- Threat Protection: We test built-in features like ad-blocking, malware protection and tracker prevention that help secure your online activity.
- Security Parameters: Encryption strength, kill switch, split tunneling and other security tools are tested to ensure safe and private connections.
If a VPN provider stands out and passes the test mentioned above, we recommend it to our readers. Along with that, we also make sure to read the current UserReviews for any sort of performance updates as well.
FAQ’s
Is it legal to use a VPN on a Mac?
Yes! It is completely legal to use a VPN on a Mac in most countries. A VPN is just a tool that helps protect your privacy and online data. However, using a VPN to do anything illegal is still not allowed. As long as you use it for safe and legal purposes, there’s nothing wrong with having a VPN on your Mac.
Do Macs really need a VPN?
Even though Mac has a strong built-in security, a VPN adds an extra layer of protection. It hides your internet activity and keeps your personal information safe, especially when you’re using public Wi-Fi. So, while it’s not required, using a VPN on a Mac is a smart choice if you want to stay more private online.
Are VPNs compatible with M1 and M2 Macs?
Yes! Many of the good VPNs work perfectly with Apple’s M1 and M2 chips. VPN companies have updated their apps to support the latest Mac models, so you shouldn’t have any problems using a VPN on your latest MacBook.
What’s the Best VPN app for macOS?
NordVPN, ExpressVPN and Surfshark, happen to be few of the best VPN apps for MacOS. These VPNs are easy to use, offer strong security and work well on Mac devices.
Can I use the same VPN account on my iPhone and Mac?
Yes! You can use the same VPN account on both your iPhone and Mac. Most VPN providers allow you to connect several devices at once with one account. This means you can stay protected on all your Apple devices without needing to buy extra accounts.
Can a VPN protect my online banking and personal data on a Mac?
Yes, of course! A VPN can help keep your online banking and personal data safe. It encrypts your internet connection, which makes it very hard for the hackers to see what you’re doing online. This is especially helpful if you’re using public Wi-Fi, like in a coffee shop or airport.
Conclusion
See! Free Wifi connection sounds really good, until it stops being private. Once your data is exposed to unknown networks or potential threats, the risks multiply. That’s why using a VPN for Mac isn’t just a tech trend, it’s a smart step toward keeping your online activity locked and invisible from others. No one, and we mean no one, should be able to sneak peek into what you’re doing online.
In this blog, we’ve shared the best VPN options for Mac that offer top-level security and performance. OK! Just remember that free VPNs for Mac are not the same as the paid ones. While free versions may offer limited access, paid VPNs give you stronger encryption, better speeds and full-on privacy protection that’s worth your money.
So, make your choice wisely.
