A VPN creates a safe internet connection between your computer and another network. Mac users can use a VPN for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons include security for your activities when using public Wi-Fi and accessing content that is that is restricted to specific regions or connecting from home to corporate networks. Fortunately, installing VPN on a MacBook is fairly simple regardless of your tech knowledge. This article will guide you through the steps to manually configure your Mac to connect with an internet-based VPN with either an online or free service.
We’ll discuss the key differences between these two options. Free services typically have limited server locations or slow speeds. Paid services offer a larger range of servers. You can always pick an alternative server once you’re connected when the speed or location isn’t what you need.
When you connect to a VPN your data is encrypted meaning it’s rearranged into code that only your VPN can decode. This protects your data from cybercriminals, ISPs, governments, advertisers and other third party. It also makes it much harder to monitor your browsing history, even on unsecure networks like public Wi-Fi.
Depending on the VPN service, you’ll need to enter your server’s address and account name (also known as the «local ID» or «remote ID»), and then click Create. Certain VPN services will display these details in the System Preferences window while others will prompt you to select your VPN and enter these settings into their own app.