Compared to Windows, the number of macOS users has more than doubled in the past decade. Hackers often follow the money, so as more users choose Mac, there are more potential targets. That’s why you should use the best free VPN for Mac OS to protect yourself and your personal information.

The benefits of using a VPN go beyond protecting your data from hacker attacks. VPN connections also help you bypass content restrictions and prevent your internet service provider from monitoring your online activities. While the best VPNs usually require a subscription, the best free VPN for Mac can provide services that are sufficient for everything except streaming services, gaming, and torrent downloads.

Using VPN apps can protect your entire Mac, including your Safari traffic. I tested 30 free VPNs on my MacBook Pro and listed the top 5 free Mac VPNs that are safe to use, with some of them even performing well in streaming. Unfortunately, like all free VPNs, they come with some significant limitations.

While I’ve listed some decent free Mac VPNs, it’s better to use a low-cost premium VPN like NordVPN. It’s not 100% free, but it has no restrictions, offering industry-leading security features, fast speeds, and unlimited data that free Mac VPNs can’t provide. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get a full refund if you’re not completely satisfied.

If you’re looking to save money, we recommend Surfshark. for less than $2.50 per month, you’ll have unlimited data and simultaneous connections, rock-solid security, and in-depth features that free VPNs don’t have. Access is fast and all major streaming sites are unlocked. Surfshark is the best value for money.

How to get a free VPN for 30 days:
If you need a VPN for a short period of time while traveling abroad, get our top-ranked VPN for free. NordVPN offers a 30-day money back guarantee, which is real. You’ll need to pay upfront to use the subscription, but the subscription allows full access for 30 days. If you don’t like it you can cancel at any time and get a full refund, so you can try it with confidence.

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Why Do You Need a Free VPN for Mac?

One of the primary reasons for wanting the best free VPN for Mac is to protect your online privacy. A reliable virtual private network ensures your confidentiality and prevents IP and DNS leaks. Moreover, a VPN can help you change your location, which is beneficial for accessing more content on streaming platforms, getting better online deals, cheaper flights, and more game servers.

From a security perspective, a free Mac VPN encrypts your data, making it harder for hackers to access your valuable information. Additionally, malicious software, viruses, and trackers become less frequent issues. Whatever your main reason, choosing the right free VPN for Mac is crucial, as not all providers are up to the task.

Further reading:
➤ How to iOS VPN Settings on your iPhone
➤ Top 3 VPN iOS Best for iPhone（iOS 16 & Older）
➤ The Best VPN Korea server
➤ Best Japan VPN for Watching Japanese Netflix
➤ Top 3 Best VPN in Hong Kong｜fast and secure

Best free VPN for Mac OS in 2023 Oct without limits

There are tons of free VPNs out there that promise a lot but actually offer very little. We’re here to separate fact from fiction by carefully testing a large number of products to find the best VPNs with free trials.

We’ve found the five best free VPNs based on key considerations such as security, privacy, speed, and streaming features.We recommend NordVPN, but you can’t go wrong with any of these five VPN services based on your specific needs.

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1. NordVPN – The most secure VPN available

While NordVPN doesn’t offer a completely free service, its 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to sign up and test the service. If you’re not satisfied or want to continue testing other VPNs, you can cancel within 30 days. Given NordVPN’s popularity with millions of downloads, it’s worth considering, even if you have to go through a few extra steps to test it.

NordVPN is the best VPN for MacBook Pro and other Mac laptops because it’s one of the most secure and fastest providers on the market. If everything checks out, you can use the service for free for over 30 days! With NordVPN, you get access to over 5,600 servers in more than 60 countries/regions.

Its proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol ensures lightning-fast speeds worldwide, and you can bypass geo-restrictions on popular streaming platforms like Netflix US, Disney+, or BBC iPlayer. In terms of security, you get all the essentials like military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP leak protection.

More importantly, threat protection handles malicious ads, trackers, and malware. Not to mention, NordVPN boasts an independently audited no-logs policy, so your online identity remains confidential. Lastly, due to its server obfuscation, it works great for Mac users in China.

In the Mac environment, NordVPN has two versions: IKEv2 and OpenVPN. The former is the one recommended by the company, and you can find the downloaded version on the App Store. They share some common features, such as the possibility of using the NordLynx protocol created by the company and the presence of a kill switch. However, the operations differ between the two versions.

If you want to take advantage of NordVPN‘s anti-threat protection (blocking trackers, ads, and malicious websites) or specify which DNS servers to use, you’ll need to download the OpenVPN version. The Mac version of NordVPN doesn’t have split tunneling. NordVPN doesn’t provide dedicated streaming or gaming servers. Instead, the company opted for specialized servers to cater to certain security needs: Double VPN, Onion over VPN, dedicated IP, and obfuscated servers.

NordVPN still offers the possibility to create presets for different purposes—gaming, downloads, web browsing, etc. Speed-wise, NordVPN’s upload and download speeds don’t disappoint. While not entirely free, you can use NordVPN without paying upfront, thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee, after which subscriptions start at $3.49 per month.

I tested this myself to ensure you can genuinely get your money back. Initially, the support team tried to extend my trial, but when I told them I wasn’t interested in an extension, they promptly initiated the refund. I got my money back within 3 business days, so there’s no reason not to give NordVPN a risk-free try. Make sure you buy NordVPN and get another 3 months free >>

How to use NordVPN VPN

To use NordVPN, perform the following simple steps:

Go to the NordVPN website and sign up for a subscription.
Download the NordVPN app for the device you want to use.
Enter your login password in the app.
Enable the Obfuscation Server by going to: Settings > Show Advanced Settings > Obfuscation Server (toggle it on).
Now, connect to one of the obfuscation servers by clicking on the “Servers” tab, and then click to automatically connect to the fastest VPN server, or manually select the server location.
Use NordVPN and unlock all online content.

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2. Surfshark – Recommend the cheapest VPN

Surfshark is a low-cost VPN that offers unlimited global bandwidth and simultaneous connections. Yes, you read that right! If you care about where your hard-earned money goes and understand the importance of getting value for it, then we recommend checking out Surfshark. This VPN allows you to connect all your devices, whether it’s an iPhone, TV, router, or the devices your loved ones use.

For those with multiple Apple devices, Surfshark is an excellent free VPN for Mac. It provides unlimited connections, making it one of the best multi-device VPNs out there. Surfshark covers over 100 countries/regions with 3,200+ servers, and thanks to the trusted WireGuard tunneling protocol, it won’t slow down your speeds.

As a top-tier provider, Surfshark helps you bypass geo-restrictions reliably, letting you watch more shows and movies on Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu, or Peacock. Suppose you want to use the internet in countries/regions with strict censorship, like China, the UAE, or Turkey. In that case, you can use camouflage mode to evade strict firewalls.

Surfshark‘s Windows app is the only VPN software version that offers all features without exceptions. The compact app is well-suited for a large number of servers and feature choices without sacrificing usability. The main screen contains essentials, with the rest tucked away in other compartments for easy access when you need them.

Surfshark is a standout in terms of features, offering smart DNS, multi-hop servers, split tunneling (referred to as Bypasser), and even an ad blocker called CleanWeb. Customers can also access features like anti-malware, a fair search engine, and data leak monitoring.

To enhance security, you can use Surfshark One, a software bundle that includes a fair search engine, antivirus software, and vulnerability detection. Using Surfshark as a free Mac VPN comes with a one-month money-back guarantee, and afterward, you can opt for a $2.30 per month plan.

Surfshark wins the title of best value VPN for much less, and it also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can personally test Surfshark with no risk using its 30-day money-back guarantee, and applying for a refund is easy through Surfshark’s live chat feature. While the support team asked why I wanted to cancel my subscription, I had no issues getting my money back (and it only took 4 days!). Make sure you buy Surfshark and get 3 months of service for free>>

How to Download and Install Surfshark

To use Surfshark VPN, perform the following simple steps:

Go to the Surfshark website and sign up for a subscription.
Download the Surfshark app for the device you want to use.
Enter your login credentials in the VPN app.
Enable the NoBorders feature by going to: Settings > Advanced > NoBorders (toggle on).
After activating the NoBorders feature, you can use the VPN as normal.
Enjoy using Surfshark VPN now.

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3. ExpressVPN – The fastest VPN in the world.

ExpressVPN offers highly secure Chrome and Firefox browser extensions, which look and feel like the main app. They give you access to all of the provider’s 3,000 servers. Unlike most browser extensions (which are usually just proxies), ExpressVPN acts as a “remote control” for the main app, meaning it integrates the same level of privacy and security into your browsing session.

Advanced security features from ExpressVPN, such as automatic obfuscation on every server, allow it to operate in countries/regions with strict censorship like China and others. The proprietary Lightway protocol, ExpressVPN’s own speed-optimized and secure protocol, is fully compatible with Mac.

ExpressVPN offers MediaStreamer DNS service, allowing you to access geo-restricted streaming apps on devices that don’t typically support VPNs, like game consoles and Apple TV. Setup takes less than 5 minutes. With strong privacy protection and headquartered in the British Virgin Islands (outside the “Fourteen Eyes” jurisdiction), ExpressVPN isn’t legally obligated to hand over user data to any government.

The app runs natively on Mac but is optimized for Apple’s older Intel processors. Using it with newer models can lead to slower speeds and battery drain. On the flip side, ExpressVPN detects the processor your Apple device uses, providing fast speeds and optimal performance.

ExpressVPN gives you access to 3,000 servers in 94 countries/regions, allowing you to change your IP address on your Mac and enjoy global content. These connections reliably unblock every streaming platform I tested, including Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. I also like that you can create shortcuts for easy access to your favorite apps and websites on the app’s main screen.

While it’s not free, you can try ExpressVPN on Mac and Safari risk-free thanks to its refund guarantee. If you’re not satisfied, you can apply for a refund within 30 days, and you can trust this policy.

I personally tested ExpressVPN’s guarantee and was pleasantly surprised at how straightforward the process was. I contacted 24/7 live chat and requested a refund. The refund was approved within 5 minutes, with no questions asked. Most importantly, I had the full amount deposited into my account in under 5 business days. Make sure you get another 3 months free with your ExpressVPN purchase>>

How to set up ExpressVPN VPN

To use ExpressVPN, simply perform the following steps:

Go to the ExpressVPN website and sign up for a subscription.
Log in to your account and download the software for the device you want to use the VPN for.
Open the ExpressVPN app and enter the activation code (from your account page).
Now, connect to one of the nearest servers and use the internet normally.
Instantly use ExpressVPN and unlock all your online content.

Recommended Totally Free VPN Downloads

There are tons of totally free VPN downloads on the market. However, the selection is the only impressive one here, as the service itself is not as good as the premium services we mentioned. Anyway, I’d like to clarify. These are 100% free VPNs, which means no payments, no credit card info, that sort of thing.

Some of them will ask you to create a free account and that’s it. After that, you can use them for free forever without paying a dime. If that’s clear, here are our top 2 favorite free VPNs:

4. ProtonVPN – Proton enjoys unlimited traffic without paying a dime!

No Payment Required If you’re looking for a super-secure VPN for your Mac, the free version of ProtonVPN is an excellent choice. The free option offers a choice of 3 countries: the United States, Japan, and the Netherlands. The provider has a strict zero-logs policy, ensuring your privacy remains intact. You’ll also get NASA-grade encryption, a robust kill switch, and IP leak protection.

Moreover, there are no data limits, so you can keep ProtonVPN on at all times. However, the free version of ProtonVPN isn’t very feature-rich. The provider is against P2P, so torrenting is not allowed. Additionally, bypassing geographical restrictions on popular streaming platforms is not possible.

You’ll only get 1 connection per subscription, so if you want to protect multiple devices, this won’t work. Assuming you decide to get rid of the restrictions and opt for the premium version, subscriptions start at $4.99 per month and are protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Go to official website >>>

5. Hide.me Free – with a 10GB data limit

If you want to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for P2P sharing on your Mac, Hide.me is one of the best free VPNs for downloading torrents. The free version requires no registration, which further enhances your online privacy. You’ll find free servers in 4 countries/regions: the United States, the Netherlands, Germany, and Canada.

They all support P2P, so you can freely download torrents. Additionally, the provider doesn’t collect logs and uses military-grade encryption to protect you. Unfortunately, due to the absence of the WireGuard tunneling protocol, the free version is relatively slower, and you’re limited to 10GB of data per month, which is not ideal for downloading large files.

Moreover, you won’t be able to access geo-restricted content on any streaming media platforms. Want to unlock the full potential of Hide.me? Then subscribe and enjoy the service for $3.00 per month. Nevertheless, thanks to the one-month money-back policy, you can cancel your plan and get your money back at any time. Go to Official Website >>

How to Manually Set Up a VPN on MacOS

First, create a VPN account:

Visit the official NordVPN website, where you’ll find a menu on the right side of the screen.
Click on it and select “Pricing.” The website will redirect you to NordVPN’s subscription plans page.
Choose a subscription plan based on your needs.
Register your details on the popup portal, including your email address and password.
Select your preferred payment method.
NordVPN will send a confirmation email to your email address. Confirm it to enjoy your NordVPN subscription.

If you receive a file containing VPN settings, double-click on the file. This will open network settings. Go to Apple -> “System Preferences” -> “Network” -> “Action.” Click on “Import Configuration,” then click “Import.” Now proceed with the complete manual installation:

Apple menu -> “System Preferences” -> “Network.”
Click “Add” -> “Interface” to add a “VPN.”
Choose the protocol you want to use from the “VPN Type” dropdown menu.
Name your VPN and click “Create.”
Note down the server address and your account name.
Click “Authentication Settings” and enter the information you received from your network administrator.
In the “Advanced” section, you can further configure proxies.
Click “Apply” -> “OK.”

Tips for Choosing the Best Free Mac VPN

Here are the main factors I considered when ranking the best free Mac VPNs:

Easy-to-use Mac apps: All the VPNs on my list have native applications suitable for macOS, iOS, and iPad, and are fully compatible with Safari. They are easy to install and use on desktop Macs, MacBooks, iMacs, Mac Minis, and iPhones.
Strong security and privacy: Each free VPN on this list comes with AES 256-bit encryption and IP/DNS leak protection to ensure the privacy of your online activities (which some free VPNs lack). I also checked each privacy policy to see what data, if any, each VPN collects.
Good speeds and sufficient data: Many free Mac VPNs limit one or both of these factors, so I tested speeds and checked data limits for each VPN to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Unlocking capabilities: I tested each free Mac VPN with various streaming platforms to ensure they can access at least some popular ones. I also provided free VPNs that support torrent downloads because not all VPNs do.
Customer support: I made sure each free Mac VPN offers some form of support, whether through email or searchable FAQs. While 24/7 live chat support is the most convenient, it’s usually only available with paid VPNs.

Expert Tip: Most free Mac VPNs are not safe

When you use a free Mac VPN from non-reputable providers, you’re often the product, and your data is what’s being monetized. VPN providers need to make money somehow, and they use various questionable techniques to do so. Here are some dangers of using randomly downloaded, untested free VPNs:

The truth is, many free VPNs for Mac operate in dubious ways to profit from you. Considering the value of your Apple devices and personal information, using unreliable free Mac VPNs is risky. Although the completely free VPNs I’ve listed do have some limitations, they are safe to use in Safari, thanks to financial support from paid customers.

Conclusion

When it comes to free Mac VPNs, it’s your needs that determine its value. Free VPNs, by their nature, offer the bare minimum in service. While free VPNs can serve as a temporary solution, even for a brief period, opting for a premium VPN with a free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee is a better choice.

This way, you can utilize all the advanced security features, unblock your favorite streaming websites, access global content, and more. If you are considering purchasing a premium VPN, we recommend options like NordVPN or Surfshark.

NordVPN runs smoothly with exceptional features like threat protection and a vast network, and it’s also one of the fastest VPNs, ensuring it runs in the background without notice, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best free VPN for Mac?

NordVPN is the best free VPN for Mac devices. With it, your traffic is encrypted with AES-256 encryption, and the WireGuard tunnel ensures high-speed performance. However, using NordVPN’s premium plan with a free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee would yield even better results.

Does Mac have built-in VPN?

Mac does have built-in VPN support, but it’s different from a built-in VPN. To make it work, you need an external server that accepts incoming connections.

Do I need a VPN for my MacBook Pro?

Yes, it’s recommended to install a VPN on any type of MacBook. Threats to Apple products are on the rise, so having an extra layer of security is crucial. With a VPN, you can encrypt your network traffic, avoid malicious websites, and enhance overall online security.

Which free VPN can be trusted?

Every free VPN we provided is trustworthy, offering strong security for your online identity and strict privacy protection.

Which versions of macOS do the VPNs in this article support?

Generally, VPN services offer software compatible with macOS versions 10.12 Sierra and higher. This means that most VPNs are compatible with macOS Sierra, High Sierra, Mojave, and Catalina. ExpressVPN is an exception as it’s compatible with older system versions as well. Whether you’re using a MacBook or an iMac, you can install a VPN on any device running macOS.

How do I set up PPTP and L2TP on Mac?

To use standard VPN protocols like PPTP and L2TP, you can use the VPN service’s applications, as some support older protocols in addition to IKEv2. Alternatively, you can configure system preferences using the configurations provided by the service. This can be done through Apple menu -> System Preferences -> Network Preferences. Use PPTP and L2TP only if there are no other options, as they can be risky and vulnerable to attacks.

Can I use a free VPN to secure my public Wi-Fi connection on Mac?

Yes, as long as the free VPN you choose provides robust encryption for your data, it can protect your privacy on public Wi-Fi. However, you must carefully select the free VPN you use, as not all free VPNs are created equal. It’s important to note that research has shown that many free VPNs lack encryption, have vulnerabilities, or even app and server vulnerabilities.

These VPNs won’t prevent your ISP or Wi-Fi network from detecting your online activities, and they may not protect you from hacker attacks. So, you should be very cautious in choosing a free VPN provider, as only a few trusted VPN providers offer free plans that provide the same level of protection as premium services, while most free VPNs you find in app stores or Google searches may not be secure.

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