How to Connect a VPN on macOS

Setting up a VPN connection on your Mac is simple whether you choose to use the built-in macOS VPN client or a third-party VPN app. Here's how to do both:

Method 1: Using macOS Built-in VPN Client

1. Open System Settings:
   • Click on the Apple menu (Apple logo) in the top-left corner
   • Select "System Settings" (or "System Preferences" on older macOS versions)
2. Access Network Settings:
   • In System Settings, click on "Network"
3. Add a VPN Connection:
   • Click the "+" button in the bottom-left corner of the network interfaces list
   • From the Interface dropdown menu, select "VPN"
   • Choose the VPN type: either "IKEv2," "L2TP over IPSec," or "Cisco IPSec" depending on your VPN provider's protocol
   • Enter a name for the VPN service
   • Click "Create"
4. Configure VPN Settings:
   • Server Address: Enter the VPN server address provided by your VPN service
   • Remote ID: Enter the remote identifier (usually the same as the server address)
   • Local ID: Optional, leave blank if not specified by your provider
   • Click on "Authentication Settings"
   • Enter your username and password
   • If required, enter your shared secret or certificate information
   • Click "OK"
5. Connect to the VPN:
   • Click "Apply" to save your settings
   • Click "Connect" to establish the VPN connection
   • Once connected, you'll see the status change to "Connected"
   • A VPN icon will appear in the menu bar

Method 2: Using a Third-Party VPN App (Recommended)

1. Select a VPN Provider:
   • Choose a reputable VPN service that offers macOS apps
   • Sign up for an account and subscribe if necessary
2. Download and Install the VPN App:
   • Visit the VPN provider's website
   • Download their macOS application
   • Open the downloaded .dmg or .pkg file
   • Follow the installation instructions (typically drag the app to Applications folder)
3. Launch the VPN Application:
   • Open the Applications folder
   • Find and click on your VPN app icon
4. Sign In:
   • Enter your VPN account credentials when prompted
5. Connect to a Server:
   • Most VPN apps have a quick-connect option for the optimal server
   • Alternatively, browse the server list to select a specific location
   • Click the connect button (usually prominently displayed)
6. Verify Connection:
   • The app will indicate when you're successfully connected
   • Many apps also display your new IP address and location

Additional Tips for macOS VPN Usage

• Allow System Extensions: macOS might ask for permission to allow system extensions from the VPN app. You'll need to approve these in System Settings > Privacy & Security.
• Menu Bar Access: Most VPN apps add an icon to your menu bar for quick access and status checking.
• Kill Switch Feature: If your VPN offers a kill switch (blocks internet if VPN disconnects), consider enabling it for additional security.
• Split Tunneling: Some VPN apps allow you to choose which apps use the VPN connection and which use your regular connection.

Third-party VPN apps typically provide a more user-friendly experience with additional features like specialized servers, automatic reconnection, and stronger encryption options compared to the built-in macOS VPN client.