Set Up Vpn Using Mac Server App

If you've decided you need a virtual private network (VPN), but you don't want to pay for a third-party VPN service, then macOS Server can be a great alternative. It's built on the macOS you already know and love and lets you quickly and easily get your very own VPN up and running.

Jun 20, 2020 This is why you should always use a VPN on your Mac. By using a VPN on your Mac, you can browse any censored websites, access Netflix content not available in your region, download apps that are not available in your country, and more. A VPN creates a virtual network between your device and the internet server. After you download a VPN app from the App Store and have your account set up, just choose a desired server from the Locations section and connect. You can always use a Quick connect feature that I’ve already talked about in this article, and configure your VPN app according to your needs in Settings.

Jun 18, 2019 It’s available for $1 on the Mac App Store. This is a simple application that basically replaces the built-in VPN menu bar icon on Mac OS X. If the VPN connection drops, it will automatically reconnect. This applicaiton uses the built-in VPN support in Mac OS X, so it’ll only work with connections you can configure in the Network Settings.

Set up macOS Server

If you haven't already done so, download and install macOS Server and optionally enable remote administration for easier setup.

Find your router's internet-facing IP Address

Before we begin with the actual setup of the VPN service, you'll need to know your internet 'co-ordinates' — your router's IP address.

It's quite easy to determine your current IP address by merely Googling: 'What is my IP Address.' Most home users have what's called a dynamic IP address, though. That means that your router's IP address may change every so often.

If you use a dynamic IP address to set up your VPN service, there is no guarantee that you'll have that IP address will still be yours in the future, and the remote connection will fail.

As a workaround, there are several dynamic domain name services you can purchase. That way, you'll get an alias known as a 'hostname' that won't change, even if your IP address does.

Many ISPs also offer static IP addresses. These are typically used for business accounts but, depending on your ISP, can be available for an additional fee.

Once you have your static IP address or have a hostname for your dynamic IP address, you can go on and configure your VPN service in macOS Server.

Configure the macOS Server VPN service

Launch the Server app from your applications.
Log into your macOS Server.
Select VPN under the Services listings.
Source: iMore
Under VPN Host Name, enter either your static IP address or dynamic hostname depending on the method you used when finding out your IP address above.
Click Edit Permissions and select the users you want to be able to connect to your VPN.
<Source: iMore
Create a new Shared Secret. The more complicated and random, the better.
Optionally click Client Addresses if you want to change the number of VPN clients that can simultaneously connect to your VPN server.
Optionally click DNS Settings if you want to change the default DNS server your VPN clients will use when connected to your VPN server.
Optionally click Routes if you need special networking routes you need to configure.
Optionally click Save Profile if you wish to create a configuration file so that clients can simply load your server's connection information for easier client setup.
Select your macOS Server computer name.
Select the Access tab.
Source: iMore
Click the Add button (looks like +) and select VPN.
Select Allow Connections From only some users.
Enter the users you wish to have VPN access.
Click OK.
Select VPN under the Services listings.
Toggle the ON/OFF switch to On.
Source: iMore

If you're on an Apple-centric network with an Airport Base Station, you'll be prompted to automatically setup your Airport Base Station to allow for connections to your macOS Server VPN service.

If you don't have an Apple Airport Base Station, you'll have to manually set up your router to allow for VPN traffic to travel through your router to your macOS Server. Here's how!

Allow VPN traffic through your router to macOS Server

Depending on who manufactured your router, you'll have to consult the documentation from the manufacturer to be able to allow VPN traffic to your internally networked macOS Server running the VPN service. The ports you need to have forwarded to your macOS Server are UDP 500, UDP 1701, and UDP 4500. Here is what it would like on an Airport Base Station if you were to set up port forwarding of VPN traffic manually.

Launch Airport Utility.
Select your router and click Edit.
Source: iMore
Select the Network tab at the top.
Under Port Settings click the +.
Type VPN in the Description.
In Public UDP Ports type in 500, 1701, 4500.
In Private IP Address enter the internal IP address of your macOS Server running the VPN service.
In Private UDP Ports type in 500, 1701, 4500.
Source: iMore
Click Save.
Click Update and allow your Airport Base Station to restart.

Connect using your various clients

All you have left to do is connect with your various client devices! The VPN service on macOS Server is using L2TP over IPSec as it's authentication module, so simply select that version of VPN when you set up your clients. Enter your user name and password as well as the shared key you created above.

Have you set up a macOS Server VPN?

The benefits of VPN access go beyond just having a secure connection to your home or office network. It allows for having encrypted traffic so that your private usage remains precisely that. Private. It offers a layer of protection from hackers trying to get access to your passwords. It deters ISPs from collecting your browsing habits.

Set Up Vpn Using Mac Server App Free

Have you set up a macOS Server VPN? Are you considering it? Leave a comment or question below!

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With a Virtual Private Network (VPN), you can achieve security and privacy online. However, the process to install a VPN for Mac can seem tricky or daunting if you are not familiar with it.

In this article we'll show you:

Actually, the process is quite easy, regardless if you are a beginner or an advanced Mac user. Let us show you how to install a VPN for your Mac!

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Set Up Vpn Using Mac Server Application

What is a VPN?

A VPN can allow you to build a secure connection between your computer to a different network through the internet. You can use VPNs for many reasons. These include shielding activity on public Wi-Fi, accessing region-restricted content, and possibly connecting to a business network to work from home.

VPNs work by forwarding your traffic directly to the network you have created a secure connection with. Essentially, you are connecting your PC, tablet, or another device to a server on the internet. This connection allows you to use the internet or a private network using that server's connection.

People choose to use a VPN for many reasons. Perhaps the biggest goal is to help protect themselves from cybercriminals. Paired with an antivirus program, this can help keep you and your Mac safe while browsing online.

This security is even more critical if you tend to access the internet on unsecured connections, such as at your local library, favorite coffee shop, or the airport. These connections make it incredibly easy for hackers to gain access to your information, including passwords to your banks and social media accounts.

A VPN may also speed up your WiFi connection. It’s also worth noting your Mac doesn’t have a VPN or ‘create VPN’ feature built-in, nor is there Mac VPN server associated with your machine, so you’ll need your own. Most cost money – and be wary of free VPN services; you’re often just giving them your information, which they may be selling to advertisers.

Keep in mind that while VPNs offer an increased level of security, they can't help someone with unsafe browsing habits. Just remember to protect yourself by not downloading suspicious files, clicking on potentially spoofed websites, or other risky browsing behaviors.

How to Choose a VPN for Mac?

First, you need to ensure that the software you choose is has a macOS version. Some VPNs offer dedicated Mac software, though it is not always as supported as Windows is when it comes to custom VPN clients.

You also want to ensure that the VPN service can do what you need it to do. While most providers offer similar features in encryption, performance, and server locations, they can differ in other areas.

Privacy: While all VPNs hide your IP address and location, they may not offer complete privacy. For instance, they may have different data logging policies, limit the number of connections and browser extensions, and have limited security features.
Streaming support: Most VPNs claim that they unlock content streaming sites, not all actually do. If this is why you are looking into a VPN, you may want to spend more time looking at reviews or try to find one with a free trial.
Amount of available servers: Some VPNs have limited servers in even more limited locations. First, this could slow down your browsing and streaming speed as more people connect to fewer servers. Second, having fewer server locations means you are severely limited to where you can appear to be browsing. If you want to browse region-restricted content, having more server locations is a must for you!
Protection across all devices: Some VPN services do not provide support to protect each device you have. The better ones will provide licenses across multiple devices. This means you can hopefully protect everything from your desktop to a laptop to a smartphone!

Vpn Setup On Mac Sierra

If you choose to use a VPN service that has its own app, you want to research it before downloading it.

Some VPN apps flaunt themself as being free. However, they have to make money somehow! Usually, they sell user data to third parties, still putting your privacy at risk.

Some third-party VPN apps may also install adware on your system, completely undetected! So, be sure you know what you are getting into before you download a third-party VPN app.

Set Up Vpn Using Mac Server Apps

How to Install a VPN for Mac

Now it is time to learn how to install a VPN for Mac. Since specific software setups can vary, these steps are just in general. Be sure to follow any setup steps recommended by the software.

You will also want to ensure that your macOS is up to date or that your VPN app is compatible with the macOS your system is operating.

Register with a VPN. This process usually involves payment.
Get the Mac-specific VPN software.
Install the Mac app. Usually, this is as simple as double-clicking on the .dmg file and following the on-screen prompts.
Run the VPN app. Be sure to have your account details ready for the first run. Usually, you need to have administrative privileges for this.

Once the app has launched, be sure to review the preferences and settings carefully. Sometimes, important settings are automatically disabled. In multiple VPNs, you must manually enable options like firewall-based kill switches and DNS leak protection.

Also, you want to make sure that your chosen VPN uses the OpenVPN protocol. This protocol ensures that your app does not default to a less secure VPN.

When you finish reviewing the settings, select the VPN server you need and select 'Connect.'

Shimo is an app for Mac that lets you both connect to and configure a VPN, or manage your VPN. Setting up a VPN in Shimo is roughly the same process as it is via your Mac’s settings, but it makes managing your VPN connection(s) much simpler.

If you want to use a VPN for Mac, the options seem endless. Choosing a VPN client for Mac is only one step in the process – there’s still the matter of setting it up, and possibly syncing settings across Macs! Let's show you how to configure a VPN on macOS.

Importing a Settings File

For some network connections for businesses, your administrator may supply a VPN settings file. You can import this file for easy setup. There are two ways to go about this:

Double-click the settings file to open the Network preferences. This allows the settings to import automatically.
Click the Apple icon in the upper left-hand corner of your screen and click on System Preferences. Click the Network icon. Click on the Action pop-up menu and click on Import Configurations. Then, select the VPN settings file and click on Import.

Living in your menu bar, this VPN client allows quick-glance access to your connection, and tells you which VPNs you use may be connected; especially handy if you have multiple VPN providers. Shimо also shows connection data in real-time so you know how long you’ve been using your VPN, and the incoming/outgoing traffic.

Manually Configure a VPN for Mac

Perhaps you want to use the built-in VPN client that comes with macOS. This client supports the PPTP, IKEv2, and L2TIP/IPsec VPN protocols.

Apple doesn’t make it hard to set up a VPN on Mac, but it also doesn’t make it easy. Keep in mind these steps require you to choose your VPN first. The main advantage of these connections is that you can set them up without having to download a separate VPN app to use them.

To manually configure the built-in VPN client:

Click on the Apple icon on the upper left corner of your display and click on System Preferences.
Click the Network icon.
Click the + (plus) button on the lower left-hand corner of the box.
Click on Interface and then VPN from the dropdown menu in the dialog box.
In VPN Type, select the VPN protocol you want to use.
Choose a name for the VPN connection and enter that into Service Name. It does not have to be anything specific.
Click Create.
Using the settings provided by your VPN service, fill in the server details, including the Server Address and Account Name. Check the option to Show VPN status in the menu bar. Then, click Authentication Settings.
Enter the Password (or other user authentication supplied by your VPN Service) and Shared Secret, then select OK.
Usually, you won't have to change any other settings. However, you should still click on the Advanced button. Check the option to Send all traffic over VPN connection. Then, click on OK to save your changes.
Click Apply in the lower right-hand corner, then click on the Connect button.
Your VPN should now connect. When done, select the Disconnect button.

There you go! You’ve just linked a VPN to your Mac, and it’s connected. Pretty simple, but is that all there is to do? Yes and no.

When using the built-in macOS VPN client, be aware that it does not have WebRTC leak protection. Be sure not to use a vulnerable browser. If you are, you need to disable WebRTC manually. If you are using Safari, this is not a worry as it is not susceptible to WebRTC leaks.

Also, check with your VPN service to make sure that there are no unique settings that you need to enable/disable to log in from the built-in macOS client.

Testing a VPN for Mac

Regardless of the VPN, you end up using; the testing process is the same.

In the notification bar, macOS displays an icon when you connect to the VPN. This icon lets you know that you are connected. If you want additional access to details and options, you can click on the icon.

Toggle across networks easily

You can connect to as many private networks as you like with Shimo, a dedicated VPN client for Mac. Stay on the safe side!

Perhaps best of all, Shimo allows you to set up triggers easily. If you use a VPN for public WiFi networks, you can choose to trigger them to activate when you connect to a chosen network. This feature is especially handy for setting a VPN to activate geographically; travelers may want to hide their location, or your work network may require a specific VPN to access files.

A VPN is only as good as your WiFi connection, and there are also smart ways to manage that. WiFi Explorer provides deep analysis of your WiFi connection, and offers up advice on why your connection may be troubled, even monitoring 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands of the same connection.

NetSpot is another great app which can use a map of your home to isolate poor coverage areas as well as provide per-connection troubleshooting. It’s a great app to have for homes with guest WiFi networks, and especially nice for those with VPN connections used at home.

How to Sync VPN Settings Across Macs

Vpn Client For Mac

Have multiple Macs? You’ll probably want to sync your VPN settings across devices. Apple’s settings can be synced across machines, but it doesn’t work seamlessly all the time, and there are plenty of times you don’t want all of your settings synced!

To sync VPN data, Shimo is your best bet. Doing it Apple’s way means you have to reconfigure on each Mac you have, and that’s time-consuming.

Shimo allows you to use it across any Mac you own as it’s license-based. Best of all, it syncs your settings outside Apple’s scope, so activating Shimo on a new Mac activates all your settings. It’s as simple as it gets!

Mac Os Vpn Server

Connecting Your Mac to Your VPN

Setup Vpn On Mac Server

Once you initially set up your VPN, connect to it in the future is a breeze!

Click on the Apple menu and then on System Preferences.
Select the Network icon.
Select your VPN service on the list at the left-hand side of the box.
If a Configuration pop-up menu appears, choose the appropriate configuration.
Click the Connect button.

That's it! You now know how to install a VPN for Mac! Once you connect to your selected VPN, you can start browsing the internet with privacy and security. Learning how to install a VPN for Mac is just that easy!

Conclusion

VPNs can speed up your WiFi connection speeds, hide your location from service providers, and help keep your browsing anonymous from websites. It’s a handy tool to have for the privacy-minded, and worth the spend.

Shimo is a better, more user-friendly option for managing your VPN connections. It makes all the fine-tuning much simpler, which can make your VPN feel much more like a powerful tool than something to hide behind.

We also like NetSpot and WiFi Explorer for managing your WiFi connection. The two apps are similar, feature-wise, so choose whichever is right for you.

Want to install all of your apps in one easy go? Check out a free trial of our app to get everything you need.