Mac computers are great for privacy. They don’t have the same level of malware problems as Windows computers, and they are built using Apple’s “walled garden” approach. But that doesn’t mean that Macs aren’t vulnerable to hackers. With the amount of sensitive information stored on a Mac computer, it’s important to ensure you are protected. In this article, we will see why using a VPN for Mac is crucial and see some of the best names in the industry.
Macbooks – the future of computers
Laptops have long been a territory restricted for Apple users. While the Macs used to be “professional-grade” tools, they are increasingly popular among regular users. And if we check MacDailyNews, we will easily find out that Lenovo, HP, and Dell are all dropping in numbers, and one name rises tall – Apple. With 40% more sales in just over a year and the release of the so-anticipated M2 chip, things look even brighter than before!
But with great opportunities come great security threats.
Windows devices were in mass use, hence objects to more vulnerabilities, but the adoption of Mac devices made them a tasty bite for hackers. And here come the VPNs for Mac devices.
What is a VPN?
A VPN, or a virtual private network, is a technology that allows you to access content on the Internet through an encrypted tunnel. As a result, you can browse without worrying about your safety since you won’t become a prime target for hackers, advertisers, the government, and your most significant “frenemy” – your own Internet service provider (ISP).
How do VPNs help your Mac?
There are plenty of reasons to install a VPN on your Macintosh computers. While some of them are less obvious, they can still make great sense. Let’s find them out.
Safer browsing experience
No matter where you’re connecting, your activities are potentially under surveillance. When you use public Wi-Fi or a cellular connection, you risk being monitored, tracked, or even attacked by someone on the same network. But a VPN app on your Mac is like a mask that helps anonymize your activity and data. That way, your activities seem anonymous to everyone else on the same network.
Unlock geo-restricted content
You have a choice when watching any kind of video: access content licensed to your current location or use a virtual private network. For example, there are streaming services like US Netflix, Hulu, ESPN+, and others in the USA, but they can’t be accessed while you’re abroad. To get around this, you could connect to a virtual private network and watch them anywhere in the world. All you need to have is a stable Internet connection and a good VPN for Mac.
Avoid throttling
We’ve already mentioned your ISP as a “frenemy.” But why so? Internet throttling. It may sound unbelievable, but the reality is that many ISPs try to ensure they have enough bandwidth capacity to house most users, so when servers get crowded, they could decrease your speed. It’s often used to discourage users from streaming video or gaming services that require higher data speeds and bigger monthly caps than what’s normal consumer-grade broadband can support. Also, ISPs are incentivized to sell your their higher monthly plans, instead of actually building more extensive networks. Well, there is a cure – the connect button of your VPN client will solve all these issues.
Save money from shopping
Retailers can now adjust prices dynamically based on the consumer’s zip code, location, and other demographic data. In fact, some have even used this technology to manipulate shoppers into spending more money than they would otherwise spend by manipulating their perceived income. You can “dodge this bullet” by shopping with a VPN installed on your Mac alongside your regular web browser.
Work remotely
Remote work is becoming commonplace, but connecting to multiple networks increases your risk of a man-in-the-middle attack. While not all software updates and technology distribution sites are created equal, the best VPNs for Mac feature advanced security features to protect against these attacks. In addition, these virtual private networks have multinational IP addresses and can toggle between different protocols like L2TP or OpenVPN to help you optimize connectivity and access more corporate resources on the web.
6 Best VPNs for Mac
There are many VPNs out there on the market. But which ones can win Mac users’ hearts? Let’s find out.