vpn extension safari

The Best VPNs for Safari (Including VPN extensions)

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James Milin-Ashmore

• September 12, 2023

We advise using a VPN app for Safari, rather than a browser extension. A dedicated VPN app will protect all of the activity on your Apple device, including any browsing via Safari.

Safari is one of the more secure options if you’re looking at web browsers. Exclusively available on Apple devices, it, unfortunately, doesn’t work with Windows, Android, or Linux. Rather than looking at the best VPN for the Safari browser, it’s more accurate to say that this is a list of the best providers for Apple devices.

Some VPNs do have browser versions, but they’re often lacking in comparison to a dedicated app. It makes sense to look at the best VPNs for Apple devices, which can then be used with Safari, as well as protecting all other traffic in the process. If you're in a rush and don't have time to read the full article, you can see the summary of our top picks below.

Best VPNs for Safari:

• NordVPN : Our top pick overall for Safari. Exceptional apps for iOS and macOS, NordLynx protocol for Apple devices, great speeds, lots of additional features like Threat Protection and Meshnet, available via App Store, and comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Surfshark : Affordable deals, capable Apple apps, decent speeds and server spread, rotating IP addresses, and a private search engine.
• ExpressVPN : Unparalleled streaming access, Lightway protocol for Apple devices, great speeds, and beginner-friendly apps for iOS and macOS. 
• Mullvad : iOS app uses WireGuard protocol exclusively, has decent speeds, transparent service, and a good reputation in the industry. 
• ProtonVPN : No logs, open-source, apps for iOS and Android, leak protection, and can access some streaming services. 
• CyberGhost : Seven-day free trial on iOS, thousands of servers worldwide, and great Apple apps.
• IPVanish : Works well with iOS and macOS, has solid speeds and security, and owns and operates its entire network.

Summary table

We used the following criteria to identify the best VPNs for Safari, but you can also read a lot more about our testing methodology further in this article:

• Apps and usability: We look at the VPN apps on offer, as well as how easy they are to use. (Of course, we’ll be focusing on Safari and Apple devices in this case.)
• Speed: The provider should have impressive connection speeds.
• Security: We check out security, including the logging policy, leak protection, and any additional features used to improve privacy.
• Streaming: Is the provider able to access international streaming services ?
• Customer support: We check out the quality of customer support options.
• Value for money: Can you get the VPN for a fair price? Does it offer a money-back guarantee?

To make the top three we only accept VPNs that tick all of the following boxes:

• Providers who have consistently pushed VPN technology forward – with a special focus on VPN apps.
• The VPN must not log identifying data on customers and must have had its logging policy audited by a reputable third party (such as PWC). This ensures that VPNs which claim to adhere to certain practices actually do so.
• The VPN must have been through a technical security audit by a third party. As opposed to a logging policy audit, this tests the security of the VPN product itself.
• The VPN provider must operate a 100% diskless server network.

Best VPNs for Safari: Detailed reviews

Here’s a rundown of our recommendations for the best VPNs for Safari:

NordVPN is our top pick overall for Safari, offering a wealth of security features that make it a great pick for both the Safari browser, and Apple devices. As well as a dedicated iOS and macOS app, you’ll be able to set up your VPN connection manually using OpenVPN or the IKEv2 protocol. 

The Quick Connect feature is brilliant for beginner users, automatically connecting you to the optimal server location. NordLynx is a proprietary protocol built around WireGuard, offering a chance to experience its speed benefits without compromising privacy. The NordLynx protocol is available for both iOS and macOS, and includes features like Threat Protection Lite, which uses DNS filtering to block ads and malicious domains. 

Its network includes 5,400+ servers in 60+ countries, and they can all be used with the Safari browser. It can also be used to bypass regional restrictions, including blocked social media platforms and streaming services. 

• Exceptional connection speeds
• Six simultaneous device connections
• Available in Mac App Store
• Diskless infrastructure
• Fully audited no logs policy
• Can be slow to connect

BEST VPN FOR SAFARI: NordVPN pairs nifty iOS and macOS apps with a heap of notable features. Includes NordLynx protocol, great performance, is easy for beginner users, and comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 

2. Surfshark

Surfshark takes the runner-up spot, as a capable VPN for Safari that works in a variety of scenarios. 

There’s no denying that Safari is a capable browser, but one of the benefits of Surfshark is its new search engine. ‘Surfshark Search’ works to prevent tracking and targeted ads without leaving any digital footprints with your searches. It ensures that your search results will be unaffected by previous searches or your real location, and you’ll be able to connect unlimited devices at the same time with a single account.

Surfshark Nexus is an exclusive technology that permits multiple advanced features, such as the ability to periodically change your IP address without disconnecting you from the VPN. Once again, there’s no dedicated browser extension, but there are apps for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux. 

It’s great for streaming, and it doesn’t log any personally identifiable information. A seven-day free trial for iOS is great for new users, and it has a range of affordable deals to take advantage of. Surfshark merged with Nord Security in 2021, however, the companies still operate independently.

• Lots of great budget deals – including a seven-day free trial for iOS
• Diskless infrastructure 
• Unlimited device connections 
• Private search engine
• Apps have been audited
• Can sometimes cause captchas when browsing on mobile

BEST BUDGET SAFARI VPN: Surfshark is a viable pick for any users who need a capable budget service. Great macOS/iOS apps, streaming support, advanced features, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN was one of the few providers to actually offer a Safari extension, which essentially allowed the user to control a VPN app via the browser. However, it's no longer supported, so we’ll be looking at the dedicated client apps for Apple devices.

If you’re planning to stream via the browser, ExpressVPN is invariably one of the best options for accessing blocked websites and services. This includes the likes of Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, HBO, Hulu, Netflix, Showtime, Sling TV, and many more. It offers guides and support for the services listed above. There are servers in 94+ countries, and it’s ideal for bypassing blocks or censorship.

The proprietary Lightway protocol is great for speed and privacy, and it’s available with Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux , and routers.

However, it’s more expensive than the average provider, plus it’s only available on five devices at the same time. 

• One of the best VPNs for unblocking sites and services
• Capable Safari app 
• Lightway protocol 
• Audited zero logs policy
• Plans are pricier than the competition

GREAT STREAMING SUPPORT: ExpressVPN has been around for a while , but still has more notable features than many newer providers. Capable Apple apps and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

4. Proton VPN

If  Proton VPN rings a bell, that’s likely due to an association with the popular ProtonMail service. The VPN has apps for iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices, even if it lacks a Safari browser extension. In terms of notable features, you can add a Proton VPN widget in iOS14 and above, and the code itself is open-source. 

It offers access to Netflix, Amazon, BBC iPlayer, and other popular streaming services, and it uses bare metal single–tenancy physical servers.

Proton VPN was the provider that first disclosed an unpatched security vulnerability affecting iOS 13.3.1 or later that prevents VPNs from encrypting all traffic and can lead to some internet connections bypassing encryption to expose users' data or leak their IP addresses. 

A Switzerland-based provider, it’s worth mentioning that ProtonMail notably gave up the IP address of one of its users, which came to light in 2021. After being asked why Proton handed over a climate activist’s IP address, founder and CEO Andy Yen tweeted:

“Proton must comply with Swiss law. As soon as a crime is committed, privacy protections can be suspended and we’re required by Swiss law to answer requests from Swiss authorities.”

Note that VPNs in Switzerland cannot be compelled to begin logging, as these are protected differently to email services like ProtonMail. This means that the data request that affected Proton Mail does not affect its VPN subscribers, which are protected with a solid no-logging policy.

• Good streaming support 
• Capable apps for Apple devices 
• Well known brand
• Smaller server selection 

SOLID SAFARI VPN: ProtonVPN has a selection of apps that work well with Apple devices and the Safari browser. Open-source, has good streaming support, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Mullvad has a solid reputation as one of the more dependable providers on the market. Built with a focus on privacy and security, five of its apps were independently audited by Cure53 in June 2020. 

The iOS app uses the WireGuard protocol exclusively, which is great in terms of speed and security. (It works on iOS 12 and newer iOS versions.) Advanced features include automatic WireGuard key rotation, while the macOS app also offers port probing, traffic obfuscation, an advanced kill switch, and MultiHop. This is a great result, especially as some developers are slow to add new features to Mac devices. Port forwarding is permitted, which makes this service a great option for torrenting .

Based in Sweden, it is decent from a privacy perspective due to the lack of mandatory data retention directives. We will note however that the region is still part of the 14-Eyes intelligence agreement. (This also includes Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the US, the UK, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Norway, and Spain.) 

The iOS/iPadOS app lacks split tunneling, and you’re out of luck if you plan to use the service for streaming.

• Various advanced features available on macOS
• Audited by Cure53
• Not the best pick for streaming 
• Sweden is a 14-Eyes country 

GREAT VPN FOR PRIVACY: Mullvad offers transparency and affordability and numerous advanced features on macOS and iOS. It’s great for Safari and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. CyberGhost

CyberGhost comes with a collection of 9,700+ VPN servers dotted across 91+ countries worldwide. It means you’ll never struggle to find a local server, and there are native apps for iOS and macOS devices. Many are optimized for streaming, so you’ll be able to use the browser to catch up with heaps of previously blocked content. 

It’s based in Romania, which is out of the jurisdiction of any known intelligence agreements. Even if it has nothing that can be tied to a user, CyberGhost does keep some connection logs, and the website collects a lot of user info. It’s also another provider that is owned by Kape Technologies, alongside ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, and ZenMate VPN.

If you’re planning to use a VPN with iOS devices, it comes with a seven-day free trial, as long as you’re running iOS 13 or later. 

• Great streaming support 
• Free seven-day iOS trial 
• Solid Apps for iOS and macOS 
• Keeps some connection logs 
• Only a 14-day money-back guarantee for one-month plans 

THOUSANDS OF SERVERS: You’ll never struggle to find a local server with CyberGhost. It has native apps for iOS and macOS devices, works with multiple streaming services, and subscriptions of six months or longer are covered by a 45-day guarantee.

7. IPVanish

IPVanish has a pair of handy apps for iOS and macOS, ensuring that you’ll be able to access Safari with over 2,000 servers spread across 75+ locations worldwide. The WireGuard protocol ensures decent speeds, and it offers unlimited connections , so you’ll never have to worry about connecting multiple Apple devices. However, there’s no Safari browser extension.

Notable features include split tunneling, while IPVanish owns its entire server network. It’s great for changing your online location and accessing US services like Netflix and Hulu.

Based in the United States, this does mean that it’s within reach of various intelligence agencies, as well as the jurisdiction of Five Eyes intelligence-sharing agreements. Monthly customers don’t qualify for the money-back guarantee, which is a notable downgrade compared to the majority of the competition.

• Secure apps for all Apple devices 
• Owns and operates its entire network 
• Works with services like Netflix US
• Based in the USA (Five Eyes)
• No money-back guarantee for the monthly plan 
• Doesn’t work in regions like China 

UNLIMITED SIMULTANEOUS CONNECTIONS: IPVanish is another respected name within the industry, offering streaming support and unlimited connections. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available for yearly/24-month plans.

Methodology: How we find the best Safari VPNs

No two providers are the same. Everything from servers to speeds will differ depending on which VPN you’ve chosen. We used the following criteria to come up with this list of the best VPNs for Safari:

• Apple apps and usability: We looked at the VPN apps on offer, as well as how easy they are to use. Generally, we focus on every app, but this time we’re looking at performance on iOS and macOS devices for Safari. 
• Speed: The provider needs to offer top-notch connection speeds. If you plan to stream via the browser, or you don’t have the fastest internet speeds to begin with, it’s even more important. 
• Security: We check out security, the logging policy, leak protection, and any additional features used to improve privacy. We also take ownership, protocols, encryption, and more into account. 
• Streaming: What international streaming services is the provider able to access? It’s always great to have the option to access content from home while abroad. 
• Customer support: We check out the quality of customer support options. Is there 24/7 live chat, does the service have guides for Safari and Apple devices?
• Value for money: Can you get the VPN for a fair price? Is it simple to redeem the money-back guarantee just in case?

Bonus points

As well as the criteria noted above, we also awarded bonus points to the top three VPN providers in this list that provide the following:

• Providers who have consistently pushed VPN technology forward: Rather than opting to do just enough to provide an acceptable service, the VPNs that make up our top three have consistently improved at any opportunity. For example, NordVPN and ExpressVPN bucked industry trends by creating their own unique connection protocols, while Surfshark was one of the first (along with CyberGhost) to offer tools like antivirus software and ad-blocking directly in its apps. Each is a great choice for Apple devices, and Safari. 
• Based in countries not part of any known intelligence alliance: Various murky intelligence alliances exist. The best-known alliance of this type is probably The 14 Eyes (officially called SIGINT Seniors Europe, or SSEUR) which includes the UK, USA, Germany, France, Spain, and nine others, though other alliances (such as Maximator and the Afghanistan SiGINT Coalition) also exist, and it’s likely there are more partnerships that we are not aware of. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark are all based in Panama or the British Virgin Islands, clear of any known treaties. 
• Regular application and server audits from a respected third party: A server audit examines things like whether the VPN’s infrastructure inadvertently collects data that would disprove no-logging claims. Application audits check the apps that a user runs on their device and look for exploits that can be used to unmask your activity or otherwise compromise your hardware. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark have had both types of audits performed, so you won’t have to take their claims at face value.
• Diskless infrastructure: Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown, so no stored data can be accessed if they're hacked or seized. 

How to use a VPN with Safari

If you’ve never used a VPN before, we’ve put together a guide to take you through the process. Rather than using a VPN with Safari specifically, here’s how to install it on either your macOS or iOS device:

Here's how to use a VPN with Safari:

• Choose a VPN service, and sign up. ( NordVPN is our top recommendation for Safari.)
• Download and install the VPN app on your Apple device. You can check the App Store, or download it directly via the VPN website.
• Sign in, and pick a VPN server to connect to. (For example, you could use a local server if you don’t have a location in mind. Many VPNs will allow you to Quick Connect to the best available option.)
• Open Safari to begin browsing safely. 

Your device should now be protected by the VPN, and it will have been assigned a new IP address. This is what is used to access previously blocked content.

Should I use a VPN browser extension or the app?

It’s worth noting that the vast majority of providers don’t actually have a Safari app. Even if there is an opportunity to use a browser version of a VPN, we’d always advise using the dedicated app if possible. VPN apps tend to have more features, and they will encrypt all traffic, rather than only your Safari browser traffic. 

For example, any other apps you use outside of Safari will be unprotected, which isn’t ideal if you’re using a VPN as a means to improve online privacy. A VPN browser extension is more like a proxy in this respect, and it can’t measure up in comparison. 

Browse safer with a VPN for Safari

Nowadays, there is a growing number of threats to Apple Mac computers and laptops. Hackers are aware that professionals use macOS for business purposes, which provides an opportunity for locking up computers with ransomware. These small businesses and individuals, often deeply require the data on their devices for the projects they are working on, meaning that they will often pay a ransom to regain access to their files.

A VPN conceals your IP address from the websites and services you visit, which can help protect you against drive-by malware infections. The leading providers in this guide even use DNS-based filtering to block malicious websites and malware infections, which can add another layer of protection when you browse on Safari.

The important thing to remember is that macOS is not as invulnerable to attacks as it used to be. Cybercriminals are making concerted efforts to attack Mac computers, meaning that you should seek to protect yourself using a VPN and an antivirus for Mac. Some examples of known threats for Mac include KeRanger Ransomware, Pirrit Adware, Flashback Trojan, Shlayer Trojan, and Silver Sparrow Malware. These illustrate the importance of a VPN and reliable antivirus for your Mac.

Besides these threats, a VPN for Safari also helps to protect your digital footprint. It conceals your IP address from the websites you visit, which removes a persistent layer of tracking. This helps to prevent online marketing and allows you to visit websites without them creating a personalized profile of your preferences.

Using a VPN for Safari not only enhances your protection against malware and cyberattacks but also safeguards your digital privacy, allowing you to browse the web with greater peace of mind. 

Safari VPN: FAQs

Do free vpns work with safari.

Yes, although there are flaws to consider. If you’re planning to use a VPN to improve your online privacy, a free provider is likely to be found. After all, if you’re not paying for the service with a monthly subscription, it’s likely that the free VPN is extracting value from the user in other ways. This might be in the form of selling data to third parties or spamming the user with endless adverts. 

The majority of completely free VPNs are also hamstrung to some degree. Connection speeds are going to be far slower than the premium options we’ve mentioned above, and the same goes for bandwidth. That's why we only recommend premium VPNs . If you need a VPN, Surfshark and CyberGhost both offer free trials for iOS, with no limitations. 

Can I browse anonymously with Safari?

Safari alone won’t allow you to browse anonymously. However, when paired with a VPN, all of your data will be encrypted, making it tough to identify what the user is up to. Our top VPNs can all be used with Apple devices and will help to improve your level of online privacy.

Does Safari have a built-in VPN?

Not in the traditional sense. Apple does offer Private Relay if you have a paid subscription to iCloud+. It works by sending requests through two separate, secure internet relays. Not even Apple can see what you’re up to. However, iCloud Private Relay is not available in all countries or regions. It’s also likely to be under US jurisdiction, given the service is provided by Apple itself.

Meanwhile, Apple developers have confirmed that you won’t be able to use the system to pretend to be from another region. In other words, it’s not a great choice for accessing local sites and services while you’re abroad. 

Will Safari work with all VPNs?

Yes, as long as the VPN has a relevant iOS/macOS app. The good news is; most premium providers will have a dedicated app for all Apple devices, allowing for at least five simultaneous connections at any given time. Split tunneling may also be of interest, as it lets you connect just the apps where you need privacy. You could turn on the feature solely for Safari if you prefer.

Can I use a VPN to hide my Safari search history?

A VPN works to encrypt your traffic, ensuring anyone from your ISP to online snoopers will be unable to see what you’re up to while online. If you’re aiming to hide your Safari search history, turn on Private Browsing. This ensures that your browsing information won't be saved, and the websites you visit won't be shared with any of your other devices. Safari won't remember the pages you visit, your search history, or AutoFill information. 

Do Mac users need a VPN?

macOS has a reputation as being ‘more secure’ than Windows, mostly due to the fact that Apple devices were less popular in the past. Basically, this means that there were more viruses created for Windows, although the same isn’t necessarily true today. 

As for iOS, it’s sold as a secure platform in comparison to Android, but it’s still possible to collect lots of user information depending on your app permissions. We’d recommend using a VPN for Safari, whether you plan to browse on iOS or macOS. 

Can I watch Netflix on Safari with a VPN?

Yes. If you are a Netflix subscriber who is on vacation, you can easily regain access to your home services by using a VPN. Simply connect to a VPN server in your usual country, and when you log in to Netflix, you will see your usual catalog of titles. It is worth noting that a VPN may work better to watch Netflix on Safari than it does in the dedicated Netflix app. For this reason, if you are having any trouble watching Netflix with your VPN, you may want to try Safari or some other browser instead of the app.

Remember that cookies left in your browser can also affect your VPN, and GPS can also potentially give away your location. You can delete cookies in your browser and turn off GPS to ensure it works without problems. Contact your VPN's live chat support to get help with either of these things.

Can a Safari VPN protect me on public WiFi?

Yes. When you connect to a VPN, all the data leaving your Mac device is encrypted. This stops local networks, ISPs, government agencies, and public WiFi hotspots from being able to track your web visits. This encryption is extremely important if you use public WiFi regularly because those hotspots will use your data for profiling purposes, and even create a profit by selling it to third party marketing companies and data brokers.

The encryption provided by a VPN also makes you safer on public WiFi by preventing your data from being intercepted by hackers also connected to the hotspot, and prevents you from being victimized on badly implemented WiFi hotspots that lack adequate security or by Evil Twin attacks.

Did you know

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

BLEEPINGCOMPUTER RECOMMENDS:

Using a VPN will hide these details and protect your privacy. We recommend using NordVPN - #1 VPN in our tests . It offers outstanding privacy features and is currently available with three months extra free.

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• VPN & Privacy

Best VPNs for Safari

7 best vpns for safari in 2023 – with browser extensions.

In today’s digital age, securing your online privacy is paramount, especially when cyber threats lurk around every corner. We’ve pinpointed the best VPNs for Safari through exhaustive research and rigorous testing , ensuring rapid and confidential browsing.

Whether you’re yearning to bypass geo-restrictions to devour international content or unblock censored services, we’ve got you covered. And for all you proud Mac or iOS users – you’re likely familiar with Safari, your trusty built-in browser. At the same time, it’s true that Safari doesn’t cater to Windows, Android, or Linux, its exclusive ecosystem warrants specialized protection. Dive into this comprehensive guide to discover the ultimate VPNs for Safari and unveil the compelling reasons to fortify your online fortress.

Are you pressed for time? We’ve got a snapshot of our top VPNs for Safari coming right up.

We’ll cover more details about the Best VPNs for Safari in this post, but here’s our quick summary.

We found these to be the 7 best VPNs for Safari based on user testing:

• NordVPN : Our #1 choice Safari VPN. Superfast servers that deliver on streaming. Tight privacy and robust security. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee. TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Safari.
• Surfshark : Great budget VPN for Safari. A no-logs VPN that works perfectly on iOS and MacOS. Decent speeds, excellent unblocking ability, and the ability to connect all of your devices at once.
• ExpressVPN : Solid Safari VPN with iOS and MacOS. Secure and private connections. Unblocks restricted content with ease and great for streaming.
• CyberGhost : Huge network of servers and robust security features. Works with Macs and iOS devices.
• IPVanish : Works well with Macs and iOS devices. Good speeds, privacy, and secure connections.
• PrivateVPN : An increasingly popular Safari VPN service with fast speeds. Good for streaming.
• Atlas VPN : Use it with Safari thanks to Mac, iOS, and Windows apps. Fast, unlimited connections, and MultiHop servers.

If you use the Safari browser to surf the web, you should know about extra protection that you can add on to your connections. A VPN will protect your privacy and allow you to get around regional restrictions that many websites impose on access. This means that you will be able to access video streaming services from other countries, even though your location would normally get you locked out.

Best VPNs for Safari – Our hands-on review

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Safari.

There are many benefits to using a VPN, which you can read about further down in this report. However, your first decision is which VPN provider to choose. When looking for the best VPN for Safari, you need to take into account the following features:

• Can be installed on Macs and iOS devices
• Has fast speeds and reliable connections
• Offers strong encryption and watertight security
• Doesn’t store any logs
• Can dodge regional restrictions

Here’s a list of the best best VPNs for Safari:

Apps Available:

VPN Ratings:

• Overall score: 9.6 / 10
• Streaming: 9.7 / 10
• Speed: 9.8 / 10
• Security & Privacy: 9.6 / 10
• Ease of Use: 9.6 / 10
• Value for Money: 9.3 / 10

Website:   www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee:   30 DAYS

NordVPN is our top pick for a Safari VPN. You get access to servers in 59 countries and the app is excellent at getting around regional restrictions. NordVPN does not keep any logs, which helps hide your identity on the internet. You can connect to the service on six devices all at the same time, and the website has a long list of tutorials on how to install the VPN manually on your router — that counts as just one connection.

You can install the NordVPN app on Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS, to cover your Safari browser. There is also an app available for Windows and Android and you can install the system manually on Linux computers and devices.

NordVPN doesn’t offer a Safari browser extension. It’s unfortunately only available on Google Chrome, Firefox and Edge.. However, it does have a supplementary service, called an HTTP proxy, which you can set up on your browser. A tutorial on the website explains how to set it up. A web proxy isn’t as good as a VPN because it doesn’t give you any extra encryption or other security measures, it just changes your apparent location.

The NordVPN app includes many excellent online security features. These include encryption on all of your connections and there is also a kill switch. You can choose a double-hop route that will travel through two different VPN servers and encrypt your connections twice over. You may also connect to the Tor network through NordVPN. Your online privacy is protected further by NordVPN’s strict no-logs policy.

NordVPN speed test data

• Safari browser can be paired with a HTTP proxy, or you can install a dedicated app
• Blazing fast speeds
• Huge network of servers
• Most apps feature a process-specific kill switch
• Great customer support
• Desktop app can take some getting used to

BEST VPN FOR SAFARI: NordVPN is our top choice . Tops our list of the fastest VPNs and performs well in all other categories. Strong security features and allows up to 6 devices to be used simultaneously from one account. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

• Overall score: 9.4 / 10
• Streaming: 9.0 / 10
• Speed: 9.5 / 10
• Ease of Use: 9.0 / 10
• Value for Money: 9.9 / 10

Website:   www.Surfshark.com

Surfshark is a low-cost VPN that offers access to 3,200 servers across 65 countries, which alone would make it a robust choice. However, it also boasts a wealth of extra security features including 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. Best of all, this service allows you to connect as many devices as you like, ensuring you never have to browse the web unprotected.

This service takes your privacy very seriously. Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information but if you’re worried about anonymity, you can sign up almost completely anonymously by paying in cryptocurrency (it accepts Bitcoin, Ripple, and Ethereum).

Surfshark doesn’t have a Safari browser extension, but it does offer apps for MacOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux. Further, it can be manually installed on supported internet routers.

Surfshark speed test data

• Powerful security and privacy protections
• Fast enough for almost anything
• Has no connection limit
• 24/7 support
• Some slow speeds

BEST BUDGET VPN: Surfshark lets you protect every device you own. Better still, with a no-logging policy, high speeds, and strong multi-platform support, you don’t have to trade security for convenience. This service has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

3. ExpressVPN

• Overall score: 8.6 / 10
• Streaming: 9.2 / 10
• Security & Privacy: 9.8 / 10
• Ease of Use: 9.1 / 10
• Value for Money: 5.4 / 10

Website:   www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN fulfils all the requirements for a Safari VPN. You can install the VPN app and use that to cover everything on your device. The ExpressVPN app is available for all of the operating systems that Safari runs on: Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS. You can also install the system on the Windows and Android operating systems, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Amazon Fire TV, Kindle Fire tablets, and Linux machines. You get an allowance of three simultaneous connections, so that you can have other gadgets covered by the VPN as well as your Safari browser at the same time.

ExpressVPN has an automatic installer for select routers. A router installation counts as only one of your five concurrent connection allowance even though it covers all of the internet-connected devices in your home.

ExpressVPN includes military-grade encryption, which is essential if you want to connect to the internet in repressive countries. As well as using 256-bit AES encryption with the OpenVPN system, it also employs 4096-bit RSA encryption for session establishment, which is the strongest available on the market.

This service is also very good at evading detection, which makes it a good option for places like China and Iran. It will also help you securely access all kinds of services including Netflix. ExpressVPN has an impressive network of servers in 94 countries, which gives you many options when you want to appear to be in a different country. The company does not keep connection logs.

Security features include a kill switch, which will prevent all the apps on your device from connecting to the internet if the VPN is not active. You also get automatic wifi protection with the ExpressVPN app, which is essential if you tend to use wifi hotspots in public places.

ExpressVPN speed test data

• Fast servers are great for streaming HD content
• Best-in-class encryption makes for solid security and privacy
• Gets around torrent tracker sites blocks without compromising privacy
• Excellent support
• A bit pricier than rivals
• Could offer more customizable features

GREAT UNBLOCKER: ExpressVPN is fast and reliable . It unblocks restricted content on all major streaming services. Strong security and privacy. The only VPN in this list with a dedicated Safari browser extension. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

• Overall score: 8.4 / 10
• Streaming: 7.8 / 10
• Speed: 8.2 / 10
• Security & Privacy: 8.4 / 10
• Ease of Use: 8.4 / 10
• Value for Money: 9.4 / 10

Website:   www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee:   45 DAYS

CyberGhost doesn’t have a Safari browser extension, but you can install it on Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS. Apps are also available for Windows and Android, and you can install the system manually on routers and Linux computers.

The service gives you access to a massive and secure server network in 80+ countries and a special cloaking option will help you in places that have tough government restrictions on internet access. The VPN connections are connected by AES 256-bit encryption and 4096-bit RSA encryption for session establishment. A kill switch and automatic wifi protection are built into the app.

The company doesn’t hold any details on its customers. All payment processing is carried out by a third party and you are only identified on the CyberGhost system by an account number. The company does not keep activity logs and it is based in Romania where there are no data retention requirements.

The app’s interface opens with an activities screen where you can choose a VPN server adjusted for activities such as watching streaming videos or downloading. You get an allowance of five simultaneous connections with CyberGhost and the company gives all new customers a 45-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost speed test data

• Easy to use apps work well with Safari
• Streams HD video content seamlessly
• Kill switch on all apps and keeps no logs
• Torrenting and P2P won’t work on all server locations

GOOD FOR BEGINNERS: CyberGhost is easy to use. Fast and reliable internet connections with a good range of servers. Great privacy with zero logs and DNS leak protection. 45-day money back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

• Overall score: 7.2 / 10
• Streaming: 6.5 / 10
• Speed: 7.1 / 10
• Security & Privacy: 8.0 / 10
• Ease of Use: 6.8 / 10
• Value for Money: 7.5 / 10

Website:   www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish offers good speeds for accessing streaming video and the company has its server network in 60 countries. There isn’t an IPVanish Safari browser extension, however, there are apps for Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS operating systems, which will protect your browser traffic. You can also install an IPVanish app on Windows and Android, including manually on Amazon Fire devices and routers. The company gives you an allowance of five concurrent connections.

The company is based in the United States, which may worrisome because the NSA and other law enforcement are known to apply secret pressure to IT companies to access customer information. However, IPVanish offers strong security with the AES encryption system, using a 256-bit key through the OpenVPN methodology. The other VPNs in our list of the best VPNs Safari also use this level of protection.

This level of protection is also used by the other VPNs in our list of the best VPNs for Safari.

A key privacy feature of the VPN service is that it keeps no logs. This is important if you want to download files with the BitTorrent protocol. Copyright lawyers in the USA are particularly active, so if your chosen VPN company retains activity or connection records, you would lose your privacy. The IPVanish app includes a kill switch and automatic wifi protection, which will prevent your real IP address from being detected by snoopers on the internet.

IPVanish offers a seven-day money-back guarantee.

IPVanish speed test data

• Provides secure apps for Mac OS X, macOS and iOS
• Keeps no logs, has automatic kill switch and wifi protection
• Works with Netflix US
• Apps don’t work in China

UP TO 10 DEVICES: IPVanish has a large network of servers . Generally solid for Safari users. Adhere to the highest standard of privacy, but can struggle with unblocking some popular streaming sites. 7-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN

• Overall score: 7.8 / 10
• Streaming: 7.5 / 10
• Speed: 7.9 / 10
• Security & Privacy: 7.8 / 10
• Ease of Use: 7.7 / 10
• Value for Money: 8.0 / 10

Website:   www.PrivateVPN.com

PrivateVPN is based in Sweden, but its support staff all speak excellent English. The support team can be contacted online during European office hours via a live chat window on the service’s website. The team is very competent and can even take control of your computer remotely to fix problems for you. However, you are unlikely to encounter any problems installing this app because it comes with an install wizard that will get the VPN operating without much input from you.

You can protect Safari browser by installing the PrivateVPN app on Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS devices. Apps are available for Windows and Android, and you can install the VPN manually on routers, Amazon fire devices, and the Linux operating system.

PrivateVPN runs servers in 56 countries. This is a particularly good option if you like to download with torrents because the company does not keep any logs. The OpenVPN protocol is protected with 256-bit AES solid encryption. You also get a kill switch and automatic wifi protection options with the PrivateVPN app.

The service gives each customer an allowance of six simultaneous connections and you get a 30-day money-back guarantee to try out the system.

PrivateVPN speed test data

• Has an easy install wizard for Mac OS X, MacOS and iOS devices
• Strong security and privacy protection features
• Keeps no logs whatsoever
• Support staff are good, but only operate during European business hours
• Small number of servers to choose from

GREAT SPEEDS: PrivateVPN is a good family choice . Speeds were surprisingly good at this end of the market. It could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

7. Atlas VPN

• Overall score: 7.3 / 10
• Speed: 6.5 / 10
• Security & Privacy: 6.5 / 10

Website:   www.atlasvpn.com

Atlas VPN may not have a Safari extension but it’s available on Mac, iOS, and Windows, among other platforms. Its server network is relatively small but still covers several dozen countries, making it a solid choice if you regularly travel abroad. Fast server speeds and unlimited bandwidth allows for uninterrupted streaming, torrenting, and online gaming. Atlas VPN works well with Netflix , Disney+ , and Prime Video .

When you connect to an Atlas VPN server, your internet traffic is routed through an 256-bit AES encrypted tunnel. You’re also protected from DNS leaks while a kill switch ensures internet traffic is cut should the VPN connection drop. Atlas VPN offers a few extra security features such as a malware blocker and MultiVPN servers. It operates a no-logs policy and provides 24/7 live chat and email support.

Connect all of your devices simultaneously under a single account through Atlas VPN’s apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. It’s worth knowing that Atlas VPN doesn’t yet provide support for wifi routers.

AtlasVPN speed test data

• Works well with Safari thanks to Windows, Mac, and iOS apps
• High-speed connections make it suitable for streaming
• No limit to the number of devices you can connect
• Excellent security with encryption and even a malware blocker
• Smaller network of servers (around 750 in all)
• No support for routers

UNLIMITED DEVICES: AtlasVPN is fast for streaming and gaming , has servers in dozens of countries, and works with Netflix. You can connect as many devices as you like at once. MultiHop servers and a malware blocker included. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Atlas VPN review .

How we found the best VPNs for Safari: Our testing methodology

In order to find the best VPNs for Safari, we had to test them out for ourselves! After all, not all VPNs offer apps that are compatible with the browser. Others may prove too slow or simply be lacking security. Read on to find out a little bit more about our methodology:

• Mac and iOS-compatible: All of the VPNs in this post provide apps for Mac and iOS and can therefore be used to secure apps on these devices as well as Safari browser traffic. Of course, they also include apps for Windows and Android just in case you have a few more devices that you’d like to secure.
• Servers worldwide: Many people use VPNs to bypass geographic and censorship restrictions. As such, it’s important for a VPN to provide servers in dozens of countries including the US, UK, and Australia. It also means there’s more likely to be a fast server close to your physical location.
• Speed: Some VPNs vary significantly when it comes to speed. While this may not make a huge difference when it comes to browsing, you’ll certainly notice the difference when streaming or downloading. Having found the fastest VPNs with unlimited bandwidth, you won’t have to worry about performance.
• Unblocking: Some websites and services are harder to unblock than others. That’s because some actively blacklist VPN IP addresses. Our tests have revealed the best VPNs for bypassing even the toughest of restrictions — even those of streaming services such as BBC iPlayer and Disney+.
• Security: A VPN is supposed to secure the internet traffic traveling between your browsing device and the Internet. Somewhat surprisingly, some fail to do this! However, you can rest assured that all of the VPNs recommended here provide encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
• Privacy:  Having looked at some 140 VPN logging policies , we know which protect your privacy and which don’t (some will log and sell your browsing data to third parties!). In some cases, you can sign up to a VPN anonymously by using a burner email and by paying in Bitcoin.
• Ease of use: The Mac or iOS app you use with Safari will be quick and easy to use. They’re the most beginner-friendly on the market without compromising on advanced features. Live chat and email support are also included so that even if you encounter an issue, help (and hopefully a solution!) is available.
• Value for money: Ideally, a VPN should offer multiple subscription options. The longer the subscription, the lower the monthly amount you pay. The best VPNs for Safari offer this flexibility and even come with a money-back guarantee. What’s more, we even offer discount coupons so you’ll pay even less!

We look for a VPN to offer all of the above. However, we don’t just take them at their word. Instead, we try them out for ourselves as part of our VPN testing methodology .

Do free VPNs work with Safari?

It is better to avoid free VPN services. You won’t find any that will give you full privacy protection. Keeping ahead of restrictions and the detection systems of governments and websites costs a lot of money. So, you should be suspicious of companies that claim to offer a full VPN service for free. How do they pay their bills?

Some free VPNs are scams and rather than protecting your personal information, their VPN apps actually harvest it to sell to advertisers. A VPN is not a VPN without encryption and, surprisingly, many free VPNs don’t include any encryption at all. These services give you a false sense of security and can actually prove to be dangerous. All of the internet traffic that passes through your connection is available for any interceptor to read if your VPN does not use encryption.

Many reputable VPN services offer a free version to lure in new customers. Obviously, these free versions are not as good as the paid VPNs offered by the same company, otherwise, those providers would never be able to persuade anyone to pay for the service. Usually, those bona fide free services have restrictions imposed on them. These include a limit on the servers that you can access, a limit on the throughput speed, or a limit on the amount of data that you can use each month.

Although free VPNs are tempting, they are usually a waste of time. This is why we do not recommend that you spend precious online hours hunting for bargains. The VPNs on our list offer outstanding value for money.

VPN browser extension or app?

You will notice that ExpressVPN is the only service on our list that actually has a browser extension for Safari. You also get an app with ExpressVPN and nine times out of ten, you would be better off using the app rather than the browser extension. This is because the browser extension only covers the internet transmissions that go from and to your browser. In the meantime, lots of background processes and apps on your computer will also be accessing the internet.

When you only use a browser VPN, all of the other internet activities on your computer are not protected. This means that they all communicate using your real IP address and all of the computers that they connect to can also be recorded by your internet service provider. So, if you have a downloading client running on your computer and you are only using the browser extension VPN, those transactions performed by the downloader will all be visible to anyone on your network.

The HTTP proxy offered by NordVPN will change the location of all of your browser transactions, but won’t give you any encryption. As with the browser VPN extension, a web proxy set up in your browser won’t cover any of the other apps running on your computer that also connect to the internet. Overall, when you have a choice between a VPN app and a VPN browser extension, it is better to use the app.

VPNs for Safari – The conclusion

So, there you have it – our list of the best VPNs to use with Safari. All of these services will keep your connections encrypted and safe from prying eyes, and they will help you to bypass any regional restrictions that are stopping you from accessing your favorite websites or streaming services.

Take advantage of the money-back periods offered by the services on our list to give a few of them a spin without any risk.

Let me know in the comments below which VPN you decided to go with and how it is working out for you.

Safari Browser FAQs

Is safari browser available for windows.

There is a version of Safari that will work on Windows. However, this is an old version because Apple stopped developing Safari for Windows in 2012. To get Safari for Windows, you need to download Safari 5.1.7. This will run on Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10.

How do I uninstall and reinstall Safari on Mac?

Safari is built into the operating system of Macs from OS X El Capitan (10.11), so it isn’t possible to uninstall it individually without removing and reinstalling the entire macOS operating system. For earlier versions, use the CleanMyMac X free utility. Once you have installed the software follow these steps to remove Safari:

• Run CleanMyMac X and select Preferences from the top menu.
• Click Ignore list and select Uninstaller.
• In the Uninstaller option, uncheck Ignore system applications. Scroll through the list of installed applications in the Unistaller tab.
• Click on Safari and select Complete Uninstallation.
• Press the Remove button at the bottom of the screen.

Apple doesn’t expect anyone to remove and reinstall Safari separately. However, there is a facility to update the browser and this will reinstall it if you removed Safari.

• Click on the Apple icon at the start of the top menu bar on your desktop and select App Store from the drop-down menu.
• In the App Store, click on the Updates top menu option.
• Look for the Software Update option and click on More in the description of the item.
• Look for Safari in the list and click the Update button on that line.

Is browsing in Safari's private mode the same as using a VPN?

No, the Private Mode on Safari is not the same as a VPN. The browser Private Mode deletes cookies and trackers from your hard drive when you close the browser window. A VPN secures the connections between your computer and the web servers of the websites that you visit by hiding your location and encrypting the connection.

Will a VPN allow me to browse anonymously on Safari?

VPNs encrypt your data which means that even if it were to be intercepted, it’s almost impossible to crack. The best VPNs also have strict no-logs policies which means none of your data is collected or shared. As such, you can use a VPN to browse anonymously, be it on Safari or any other browser such as Chrome or Firefox . You can connect to these VPNs via desktop and mobile apps or even via browser extensions in some cases.

Does Apple recommend a VPN for Safari?

Apple neither recommends nor advises against VPNs. You can find a number of VPNs listed in the Apple App Store (including those listed in this post). It’s really up to you to decide whether you want and need a VPN, be it for accessing region-locked content or browsing with more security. Note that all major VPNs are compatible with Mac and iOS and many even allow you to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

What if Safari isn't working with my VPN provider?

Safari will work with the VPNs listed in this post. However, if you’re having some issues, there are some things you can try. First, check that you’re using the latest version of the VPN software. You should also clear your browser’s cache and cookies . If you’re still having issues, be sure to contact your VPN’s customer support for further assistance.

Can I use a VPN to hide my Safari search history?

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic so that your ISP (and others) can’t see what you’re doing online. However, you will still have a Safari search history stored on your browser. The good news is that there are things you can do to browse without building up a search history. One is to use Safari’s Private Browsing mode (incognito). You can also clear your Safari search history should you wish.

Does Safari have a built in VPN?

No, Safari doesn’t have a built-in VPN . However, you can use a VPN with it by downloading and installing one of the best VPNs for Safari as listed in this post. Your best bet is a desktop or mobile app because this ensures that all of your internet traffic is secured. This includes your Safari browser traffic and any apps you use. While you can use a VPN browser extension with Safari if you prefer, this will only secure your browser traffic.

Do these VPNs work with other browsers?

Yes. You can use these VPNs with Firefox, Chrome, Edge, or any other browser installed on your device.

Our recommended VPNs can be installed on Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android. Connecting to the VPN on any of those devices will protect your browsing habits in any browser.

In addition, some of the VPNs we have recommended have dedicated VPN extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. The important thing to remember, however, is that these browser extensions are proxies that do not provide the same privacy protections as the main VPN client.

A proxy browser extension will let you spoof your location and bypass blocks, however, it will not provide the security level provided by the encryption you get with the stand-alone VPN app.

For this reason, we always recommend using the main VPN app that comes with your subscription.  This will encrypt all of the data leaving your device, including the data coming and going from your browser.

How can I get the best price for a Mac VPN?

With so many VPN providers competing for your attention, it’s common to find sales on subscriptions. One of the best times of year to purchase a VPN subscription it to do so on Black Friday or between Christmas and New Year.

However, you can currently get the best price for a Mac VPN by taking advantage of the VPN discount coupons in this post . Below each review, you’ll find a coupon for that VPN service. All you need to do is click it and it’ll be applied automatically!

• Best VPN for Mac
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• Best antivirus for Mac

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PRIVACY ALERT: Websites you visit can find out who you are

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage.

Using a VPN will hide these details and protect your privacy.

We recommend using NordVPN - #1 of 76 VPNs in our tests. It offers outstanding privacy features and is currently available at a discounted rate.

Get an extra 30 days free on any plan when you sign up now.

Don’t miss out! Get 4 months free when you sign up for a 12-month plan.

• VPN download

Download the best VPN for Safari

Enjoy secure browsing on Safari in macOS, iOS, and iPadOS using the best VPN. Change your location and encrypt your data.

• iPhone/iPad
• Game Console

VPN for Safari: Features

Simple to use.

Turn on ExpressVPN, and all internet activity on your device is encrypted, including your Safari traffic.

Global VPN network

Access VPN server locations in 105 countries.

VPN kill switch

With macOS, ExpressVPN’s kill switch prevents internet traffic from flowing outside the VPN tunnel if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

DNS leak protection

Stop your internet service provider or DNS service from watching your online activities.

How to set up VPN for Safari 2023

Enhance your online privacy and security by setting up a VPN for Safari. Safeguard your digital activities and enjoy anonymous browsing in three simple steps:

Subscribe to ExpressVPN

Download the ExpressVPN app on your iOS or macOS device (iPhone, Mac, or iPad)

Press the “On” button on the screen

Within the ExpressVPN app, you can change your settings to select different VPN protocols, change the app’s language, and enable privacy features like Threat Manager and Network Protection.

Frequently asked questions

How do i get a vpn on safari.

No premium VPN provider has a VPN extension for Safari, including ExpressVPN. But you already get the privacy and security benefits of ExpressVPN on Safari if you use the ExpressVPN app on your Mac device.

How do I enable VPN on Safari?

If you would like to enable a VPN on Safari, you have two options: You can either download a high-quality VPN service like ExpressVPN or manually configure an existing VPN connection on your Apple device.

Follow the steps outlined above to enable a VPN on Safari.

What is the safest VPN for Safari?

A high-quality VPN, such as ExpressVPN, is considered the safest VPN for Safari. This is because ExpressVPN protects your identity, data, and privacy in various ways. Your online traffic is shielded in an encrypted tunnel so no one can see your activity or sensitive information (such as during online banking). At the same time, a VPN gives you a different IP address that is shared with thousands of other VPN users—this raises your anonymity and makes it virtually impossible for anyone to trace your activity back to you.

Does a VPN hide my browser history?

Your browser history is typically stored inside your browser. Using a VPN will not change this. But you can clear browsing data in Safari.

Your browsing history might also be inferred by others monitoring your internet connection, such as your internet service provider or Wi-Fi operator. ExpressVPN encrypts all data between your device and the ExpressVPN servers, making it impossible for an ISP or rogue Wi-Fi to record the sites you visit.

Note that browser history is not the same as search history. If you are logged in to Google and using its search engine, those searches will be recorded even if you are using a VPN. ( Learn how to delete your Google search history. )

Is browsing in Safari’s private mode the same as using a VPN?

No, browsing in Safari's private mode is not the same as using a VPN. Here are some of the key differences between using a VPN and browsing Safari in private mode:

Private browsing hides your local history, preventing anyone who shares your computer from seeing what you’ve been browsing. A VPN does not affect how your browser works.

A VPN encrypts your entire internet connection, shielding your data from ISPs and snoops. Private browsing does not affect encryption.

Private mode only affects the browser, while a VPN covers all traffic passing through your device.

Is there a free VPN for Safari?

Although there are free VPNs and proxy services, they are not recommended as they do not offer the same privacy and security benefits of paid VPN. Many do not work as advertised, some may even sell your data, and most will leave your networks vulnerable to attack.

Read more about free proxy services vs. VPNs.

What if Safari isn't working with my VPN provider?

Contact your VPN provider if you find that your VPN service isn’t working with Safari. There may be a number of factors that could be affecting this and it’s best to seek clarification.

Does Safari come with a VPN?

No, Safari itself does not have VPN functionality. The ExpressVPN app on your device will secure your Safari browsing.

Does iPhone’s Safari app have a VPN?

No, Safari on iPhone does not have a built-in VPN. However, you can use a third-party VPN app, like ExpressVPN, to protect your privacy and security when browsing the web on your iPhone.

It’s worth noting that Apple does offer a privacy feature called iCloud Private Relay, which is available on iOS 15 and iPadOS 15. Private Relay hides your IP address from websites and app servers, so they can't track your online activity. However, Private Relay does not encrypt your traffic, so it does not offer the same level of privacy protection as a VPN.

Why is my Safari not working with a VPN?

There are a few reasons why your Safari might not be working with a VPN:

Your VPN is not on: Make sure that you have entered your VPN credentials correctly and that your VPN software is turned on.

Your VPN is blocked by your network administrator: Some network administrators block VPN connections, so you may need to contact your IT department for help.

There is a problem with your internet connection: Make sure that you are connected to a stable and reliable internet connection.

There is a problem with your VPN server: Try connecting to a different VPN server to see if that resolves the issue.

Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting Safari problems with a VPN:

Clear your browser's cache and cookies: Sometimes, cached data or cookies can interfere with a VPN connection. To clear your cache and cookies in Safari, go to Safari > Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data . Select the websites that you want to clear data for, then click Remove .

Open a new private window: You can also ensure no cache or cookies are affecting your session by using a new private window. In Safari, go to File > New Private Window .

Contact support : If you’ve tried the above solutions and your Safari is still not working with a VPN, contact ExpressVPN’s support team for help. They can troubleshoot the issue and help you get your VPN working properly with Safari.

Why should you use a VPN for Safari?

More vpn locations.

Choose from VPN server locations across 105 countries, including the UK , U.S. , Canada , and Australia .

Optimized for speed

ExpressVPN constantly optimizes servers to deliver the fastest speeds possible.

Superior connection reliability

Enjoy industry-leading connection stability and reliability, no matter where you are in the world.

Network Lock kill switch

Network Lock blocks your internet traffic if your VPN connection drops, keeping your data safe.

Best-in-class encryption

Secure and protect all of your data with best-in-class AES 256-bit encryption .

Advanced leak protection

Strong leakproofing is enabled by default, ensuring your privacy and security stay intact.

TrustedServer technology

Audited to confirm privacy protections, TrustedServer sets a new standard for security.

Defeat ISP throttling

ExpressVPN lets you bypass ISP throttling and say goodbye to buffering.

Content from anywhere

Access all the apps and services you need to work, stream, and play.

Live chat support

Contact Support around the clock if you have questions about ExpressVPN on any device.

Access our global VPN servers

Connect to VPN servers in 105 countries from anywhere in the world. See our full list of VPN server locations .

Try the risk-free VPN for Safari

No hassle. Try ExpressVPN for Safari with a 30-day money-back guarantee today and secure your internet!

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• VPN & Proxies
• Best VPN for Safari in 2023: Is There a VPN Extension for Safari?

Cloudwards.net may earn a small commission from some purchases made through our site. However, any earnings do not affect how we review services. Learn more about our editorial integrity and research process .

Safari is one of the most secure web browsers. However, using a Safari VPN ensures your data’s privacy from your ISP and helps you access to geoblocked content. Read on to learn about the top Safari VPNs on the market.

Written by Hannah Pisani ( Writer ) & Arjun Ruparelia ( Writer )

Facts checked by Jasna Mishevska ( Lead Fact-Checking Editor )

Last Updated: 12 Nov'23 2023-11-12T06:00:35+00:00

All our content is written fully by humans; we do not publish AI writing. Learn more here.

If you’re looking for the best VPN for Safari, you’ve come to the right place. A virtual private network (VPN) enhances the privacy and security of your browsing experience, keeping your data and IP address hidden from the wider internet.

In addition to anonymity, Mac and iOS VPNs also have a range of valuable features. With a good VPN solution for Mac in place, you’ll be able to access streaming content from other countries, broadening your access to streaming services like Netflix or Hulu.

Key Takeaways:

• While there are no VPN browser extensions for Safari, there are a number of VPN applications that will give you a secure browsing experience.
• ExpressVPN is the all-round best option for Safari, closely followed by NordVPN .
• If you’re looking for a free VPN, we recommend Windscribe .

However not all VPNs are created equal and, more importantly, not all VPNs work with Safari. This means that you need to do your research before signing up for a provider. The good news is that we’ve looked into this for you. Below, we’ll explore the best VPNs for Safari in more detail. If you’re looking for a quick answer, go with ExpressVPN .

Updated Windscribe pricing: the paid plan increased to $5.75 per month from $4.08. The Build-a-Plan minimum purchase also increased to $3 from $2.

Updated the article to reflect ExpressVPN’s recent increase of 5 simultaneous connections to 8, as well as its expansion of server presence to 105 countries, previously 94.

There are several Mac VPNs that work in conjunction with Safari, such as ExpressVPN , although there is no specific browser extension for Safari.

Apple has not released a statement about a specific VPN it recommends for Safari.

To enable a VPN for Safari, you first sign up to the provider of your choice and download its app. Next, access their application and log in to your account. On the homepage of the app, connect to the server of your choice. Once your connection is confirmed, you can then use Safari — and your session will be private.

Top VPNs for Safari

• : PayPal, Credit card, Bitcoin, PaymentWall
• : PayPal, Credit card, Google Pay, AmazonPay, ACH Transfer, Cash
• : PayPal, Credit card, Google Pay, Amazon Pay
• : Unlimited
• : PayPal, Credit card
• : PayPal, Credit card, bitcoin, Amazon Pay

What Makes the Best VPN for Safari?

The Safari browser comes exclusively with Apple devices like iPhones, Mac laptops and desktops, and iPads. If you’re an Android or Microsoft Windows user, we advise looking at our review of the best VPN providers instead. Here’s our overview of the best VPN services for Safari.

• ExpressVPN — Super fast and easy to use; our top choice for Safari 
• NordVPN — Highly customizable, with fast speeds and a range of features 
• Surfshark — Unique features and competitively priced 
• Windscribe — Free to use with solid online security features 
• CyberGhost — Great for streaming and very affordable 

We based our ranking of the best VPNs for Safari on a few factors. The VPN needs to have fast speeds , strong security credentials and, most importantly, integrate seamlessly with Safari on both macOS and iOS devices. We’ve also written a detailed review about the best VPN for iPhone and best VPN for iPad .

Given that Safari is renowned for its intuitive, crisp user interface, we also assessed the VPNs based on their design and user interface, as the user experience is another important factor. 

As a side note, we would have given high marks to a VPN provider that offered a dedicated Safari browser extension but, at this point, it’s not an option for Safari version 12 or higher. 

The 5 Best VPNs for Safari

With these factors in mind, here is our take on the best VPNs for the Safari browser. 

1. ExpressVPN

More details about ExpressVPN:

• Pricing: $6.67 per month for the 15-month plan
• Provider website: expressvpn.com
• Easy-to-use interface
• Strong security credentials 
• Excellent server range
• Quite expensive 
• Outdated Safari browser extension 

ExpressVPN for Safari is a solid choice for both Mac and iPhone. A single subscription will cover you across up to eight devices, which is handy if you’re in a family of Mac users or want VPN protection on both your desktop and mobile phone. 

While ExpressVPN offers a browser extension for Edge, Google Chrome and Firefox , there isn’t an extension for Safari at present. There used to be in the days of Safari 11, but since Safari 12 launched in 2018, the browser extension is no longer supported. If you use an old Mac device that doesn’t receive updates, you may be able to get the Safari browser extension. 

For newer Mac users, this isn’t the end of the world anyway, as the app appears in the dock at the bottom of your screen, meaning it’s still easy to access. On iPhone, you’ll need to access the app each time you want to connect, disconnect or change server locations.

In terms of performance, ExpressVPN is great. It is really easy to use and offers super-fast speeds. ExpressVPN also has a “shortcuts” feature, where you can add your most visited applications to the home screen of the app for a quicker user experience. 

Stream to Your Heart’s Content With ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN’s combination of fast speeds, unparalleled security and 166 servers in 105 countries means that this VPN is excellent for Safari users looking for a great streaming experience. Whether you want to unlock Hulu, Netflix or BBC iPlayer, Express VPN can help. Learn more about the best VPNs for streaming here.

ExpressVPN is an expensive option. The most cost-effective plan comes to $6.67 per month. The service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try before you buy. Read our full ExpressVPN review here. 

• Unlimited GB

More details about NordVPN:

• Pricing: $3.99 per month for the two-year plan 
• Provider website: nordvpn.com
• Fast speeds
• Great customization options 
• Seamless desktop & mobile experience
• Expensive monthly plan 

NordVPN boasts a range of preferences, giving you a highly customizable VPN experience. In addition to a selection of servers in over 60 countries, there are options to turn on dark web monitoring, which will alert you if your email address has appeared in a data leak.

NordVPN also has a kill switch feature, which will disconnect you from the internet should your VPN connection drop to assure your privacy. Another cool customization feature is the ability to turn on “dark mode,” which can save battery life and reduce eyestrain.

NordVPN offers a consistent experience across its desktop and mobile apps. The mobile app is like a mini version of the desktop one, so it’s easy to switch between both. 

Configure Your Favorite VPN Settings With NordVPN

We really like NordVPN’s “presets” function. This allows you to configure shortcut VPN settings for specific applications, rather than having to choose a VPN server manually for each session.

For example, let’s say you have a favorite server for accessing Netflix. You can add this in the presets section so that you connect in a single click. Note, though, you will have to use the NordVPN app, as there’s no Safari browser extension. 

NordVPN’s monthly plan is pricey at $11.99 per month, but the two-year plan is much more affordable at $3.99 per month (or $89) for two years. As with most VPN providers, you can also trial NordVPN for 30 days and get your money back if you are not satisfied. Read our NordVPN review for more.

3. Surfshark

More details about Surfshark:

• Pricing: $2.50 a month for the two-year plan
• Provider website: surfshark.com
• Reasonably priced 
• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Multi-hop functionality 
• Not as fast as other providers 

Surfshark isn’t the fastest VPN for Safari, but it has a range of features that make it a worthy choice. Like the other providers so far, Surfshark doesn’t offer a Safari browser extension, but the VPN app is easy to access from the dock on your Mac. 

Aside from the standard VPN functionality, Surfshark has some nice additions. Its ad blocker, CleanWeb, protects you from pop-up ads and malware as you browse the web. Another feature is MultiHop. This allows you to direct your internet connection through more than one server to bolster your privacy. 

Split Tunneling Made Simple With Surfshark

Surfshark’s split tunneling feature is called Bypasser. As the name suggests, this feature allows you to split your internet traffic so that only some of it goes through the VPN connection. This is useful if, say, you use a wireless printer at home, as this relies on your IP address. It also lets you isolate the Safari browser traffic and route only that through the VPN.

Aside from its monthly plan, Surfshark is inexpensive. Its cheapest plan is $2.49 a month. You can find out more about this provider in our Surfshark review . 

• Unlimited GB bandwidth, Unlimited devices, Secure VPN, Ad blocker, Cookie pop-up blocker.
• Everything in Starter, plus Antivirus protection, Identity protection, Email Breach and Credit Card Alerts, Online Alias
• Everything in One, plus Data removal

4. Windscribe

More details about Windscribe:

• Pricing: Free plan; $5.75 per month for the 12-month plan
• Provider website: windscribe.com
• Free plan 
• Kill switch feature
• Unique security tool
• Limited locations on free plan
• Interface can take some getting used to 

Like the other VPN providers we’ve looked at so far, Windscribe doesn’t come with a Safari extension. Its app, though, will still protect your browsing experience. The Windscribe VPN app can take some getting used to. It features lots of icons and widgets, and it’s not immediately obvious what each of these is for. For example, there’s a kill switch feature, but this masquerades as a “firewall.” 

For a provider with a free basic plan, Windscribe ticks a lot of boxes. It’s secure and offers a range of servers that you can choose from in 60 locations. It’s worth noting that you can only access servers in ten countries for free, but it’s certainly the best free VPN for Safari. 

R.O.B.E.R.T. for Windscribe

Windscribe’s standout feature is R.O.B.E.R.T., which stands for Remote Omnidirectional Badware Eliminating Robotic Tool — quite the mouthful! Essentially, this collection of tools is all about blocking internet “nasties,” things like malware, unwanted ads, fake news and clickbait and cryptominers. 

Note, R.O.B.E.R.T. is not available on the free plan. You will need to pay for Windscribe to access it. 

You can access Windscribe for free and then buy individual server locations for $1 each monthly (with a minimum purchase of $3). To access all of Windscribe’s servers and features, you can pay an annual fee of $69 or a monthly fee of $9. Read our full Windscribe review to learn more.

• Up to 15 GB free with email confirmation and Tweet

5. CyberGhost

More details about CyberGhost:

• Pricing: $2.29 a month for the three-year plan
• Provider website: cyberghostvpn.com
• Solid speeds
• Optimized for streaming
• Fewer functions than other providers 

CyberGhost does a good job at democratizing VPN access. Its interface is easy to use, and every function it has comes with an explanation of the benefits, so that users understand the different options. 

CyberGhost lacks some of the features that its competitors have, though. For example, split tunneling isn’t available on Mac. While it doesn’t look like CyberGhost has a kill switch feature, this is actually embedded in the solution, so your browsing session will automatically cut out if your VPN connection drops. 

VPN Guidance With CyberGhost

Finding the right server for streaming and downloading purposes can take a lot of research, but CyberGhost does the work for you. It has two dedicated tabs called “for downloading” and “for streaming,” which provide lists of the most popular locations for each activity.

On the “for streaming” tab, CyberGhost even tells you the streaming site that each server has been optimized for (you can read more about its optimized servers in our CyberGhost review ). 

CyberGhost’s cheapest plan is $2.29 a month for three years. You also get a 24-hour free trial on Mac and a seven-day free trial on iOS devices. 

On top of this, there’s a money-back guarantee too. If you sign up for the one-month plan, you get a 14-day money-back guarantee. For longer plans, you get a 45-day money-back guarantee. 

Why You Should Use a Safari VPN

A Safari VPN is a sensible idea for anyone who wants to improve the privacy of their browsing experience. Although it may sound like it, Safari’s private mode won’t accomplish the same. VPNs also have a range of benefits, enabling you to unblock streaming content from other countries. 

Many solutions also offer enhanced privacy and security features, such as ad blocking, malware protection and dark web monitoring, which improve your online safety. This is especially important if you share sensitive details — like credit card numbers or personally identifiable information — with the websites you visit.

A VPN will ensure that you and your data are secure and hidden from the wider internet, reducing the likelihood of data breaches and instances of cybercrime. 

Final Thoughts

There you have it! That’s our roundup of the top VPNs for Safari. While you can’t get a VPN that works in your browser, apps like ExpressVPN will still provide you with a secure browsing experience across your Apple devices. 

Have you used a VPN for Safari? If so, which is your top pick and why? Did we miss your favorite Safari VPN? Let us know in the comments below and, as always, thanks for reading! 

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The Best Apple Safari VPN Extensions For 2023

Staff Writer , at VPN.com

Last Updated: November 2, 2023 4:42PM EST

• 1. What Do We Know About Safari VPN?
• 2. Unlimited Access To The World Of Content
• 3. Best VPN Service For Safari
• 4. The Best Apple Safari VPN Extensions Of 2023
• 5. Advantages Of Using The Best Apple Safari VPN Extensions
• 6. Conclusion

Safari is the default browser for Mac. Hence you are browsing on your Apple device you need to find a credible VPN that works best for the Safari browser.

You need to find an extension VPN for Safari that ensures fast, effective, and confidential browsing. Here we have done complete research after a lot of rigorous testing to find a list of reliable and rapid Safari VPN extensions for you.

What Do We Know About Safari VPN?

In the constantly evolving digital landscape of technology, people tend to find fast and effective browsers. People want to use a secure and safe browser, and that’s where a safari VPN extension free comes into play, ensuring their data and information can be secured from the prying eyes of haters and competitors.

With the advancement of technology, the rates of cyber attacks have been increased. These hackers and malicious attackers use the latest technology to steal your confidential data and information and use it against your business or company or you individually. Having a safari VPN extension free can be a valuable tool to combat this.

The rates of cybersecurity have been increasing at a great rate and the threats of cyber attacks have been roaming around the corner. Hence, incorporating tools like the safari VPN extension free becomes essential. You need to be smarter than these hackers and unauthorized users when it comes to the security or protection of your online browsing and traffic data.

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Unlimited Access To The World Of Content

It does not matter whether you want to use this VPN extension for business purposes or just for the sake of secured browsing, online streaming, or gaming. These VPN extensions will provide you unlimited access to the premium websites that are blocked in your area.

It will bypass the area-restricted content and websites. These VPNs provide specific features like they will unleash premium content and giving access to censored services that might not be available to other people.

And the additional benefit is that it will unblock the premium content from all over the world. These VPN extensions support Mac. Most Apple users have been familiar with the Safari browser. It is the most trusted and default browser for Apple devices. The Safari does not carter or work for Windows, Android devices, or Linux.

These VPNs provide an exclusive and significant ecosystem that guarantees significant protection and security against any kind of threat. Let’s have a complete overview and detailed information on ultimate and effective VPNs for Safari.

Best VPN Service For Safari

If you are an Apple user you should know that your browsing is not secured if you are connected to a public network. Any attacker can try to steal your sensitive data and information when you are browsing it could be the data that you are transferring or the confidential information of your innovative business or company.

So if you are using Safari browser to surf the online website you need to put an extra layer of protection to shield your private information and data from malicious hackers.

These VPNs will give you unlimited access to the premium and restricted websites that you can’t access while being connected to the public network with a shield of protecting layers that will keep you safe from hackers and unauthorized users. There are a lot of websites that expose your identity and try to steal your information whenever you access them.

These websites try to impose your identity and invade your privacy so you need to try some reliable and effective VPN service that will keep your identity anonymous. Hence you can have unlimited access to international content, and entertain yourself with video streaming around the world without exposing your original location and identity. Your original location will not let you have direct access to it.

The Best Apple Safari VPN Extensions Of 2023

Express vpn.

• Private VPN

Advantages Of Using The Best Apple Safari VPN Extensions

There are several benefits of using the most reliable and efficient VPN safari extensions on Safari. The following is the list of benefits these safari extensions VPNs provide:

These VPNs can be easily installed on your Mac and iOS device and provide a user-friendly interface. Hence it will be easy for the new users to use these safari extensions VPN.

These VPNs provide effective speed and fast loading . So, when using safari extensions, you don’t need to wait for the loading process or face buffering when you are trying to enjoy online streaming or playing video games while being connected to the VPN server.

These VPNs also provide strong encryption like all other VPNs. Your data will be transferred through encrypted tunnels , and when using these safari extensions, if somebody tries to attack or steal the data, it will turn into gibberish. So the attacker will not be able to decode it, rendering it unusable for him.

These VPNs will bypass any geo-restricted website and give you access to premium content that is not available to everyone. Hence you can dodge any restriction related to your geographical location with the help of these safari extensions.

The Nord VPN is the most famous and the most trusted VPN available in the market. It is the top priority of most of the users. It is considered the number of VPNs across the industry because of the highly significant services this VPN provides. This VPN provides unlimited reliable servers in more than 50n countries. Hence you can choose the most effective and fast server you want to connect to, it gives you a list of servers across the 59 countries.

This VPN will bypass any geo-restricted website and give you unlimited access to the entertainment world as well. This VPN service also gives the feature of a logs policy which means your information will not be stored on any server you are connected to. And it gives multi-user features which means you can connect up to 6 devices at the same time. 

Their customer service is quite efficient and they provide a user manual tutorial so you can easily set up your account and face no problem while using this VPN. You can understand the procedure of how to download the VPN on your router manually. And how the connection will be considered as one after being connected to the server.

This VPN also supports iOS and Android devices but it is specifically built to work best for the Safari browser because it provides a supplementary service known as HTTP proxy. The tutorial is given on their website so you will not face any difficulty while setting it up. The proxy is not as efficient as the original VPN itself. But it works well for the secured browsing. This VPN has a significant and the most effective app that yVPN on any Windows PC and Linux.

Well, there are a lot of highly efficient features. These efficient services include strong encryption that provides secured tunnels through which the data you transfer online. It provides a kill switch feature that will immediately shut down your connection if it detects any kind of threat in your device. It also gives you a disguised location so your identity will be secured. Also, you can use the double-hop feature to use this VPN while traveling. This feature will also let you encrypt your connected server twice. 

Surf Shark VPN

This VPN is considered a reliable VPN while being a low-cost VPN. It provides a list of more than 3,000 servers in more than 60 countries. The speed of this VPN is rated as 7 out of 10. It is one of the most relaible VPN in the induistry of VPNs. it is considered the best because of the advantages this VPN serves. This VPN is capable of keeping your browsing data safe and secure.

It will not let any hacker or attacker try to steal your sensitive information from your connected device. It prevents tracking hence no one will have a track or record of your browsing. Hence you can enjoy confidential browsing at quite effective speed. It provides a new search engine so you can browse with its search engine which will ensure privacy.

It blocks all of the malicious ads that may infect your computer. When it changes your original IP engines it also makes sure your previous searches will not try to expose your location. Additionally, this VPN provides multi-user features. Hence you can connect unlimited devices while using this VPN at the same time. 

this VPN offers exclusive modern technologies that you can take advantage of. Surfshark VPN will provide modern features that will enhance your browsing experience. This VPN allows you to change your IP address periodically, while you remain connected to the VPN it will not interrupt your connection. This VPN does not provide a specific extension but you can download its effective application. You can also download this application on  Windows PC, iOS Android, and Linux too. 

This streaming app provides a no-logs policy that means your identity remains confidential with their trusted service. This VPN provides a free trial for a complete week. And the packages of this VPN service are not so costly. That means you can enjoy quality services at a very budget-friendly price. 

There are only a few VPNs that provide the Safari VPN extension, Express VPN is one of them. This VPN extension allows you to use the complete features of the application on the browser. So with this extension VPN you will enjoy secured browsing on your favorite browser with advanced features like Ad blocking and many more quality services like that.

So if you love streaming through a browser then this VPN extension is the perfect tool for you. This VPN provides invaluable services like no other VPN. Additionally, this VPN also supports different operating systems like Android and Linux. It supports different devices like Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Netflix BBC News, Hulu, and so many different top-rated applications. 

The main enhanced feature this VPN provides is its security protocol with an effective speed and highly secured and confidential browsing experience. The prices are quite high because of the quality service this VPN provides like unblocking premium websites. It also provides a multi-user feature where you can connect up to 5 devices at the same time. 

It offers you unlimited access to premium websites and most streaming applications like Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, etc. This VPN only uses a single-tenancy server that is physically available.

This VPN provides an unpatched vulnerability that has an effect on iOS 13.3.1 or the next versions that do not let the VPN encrypt their online transferred data. This will result in anyone bypassing your data and leaking your identity it must remain confidential at every cost. Hence you need to use the VPN extension to keep your browsing secured and encrypted when you are using the Safari browser.

Conclusion 

The Safari browser does not provide enough security to keep your browsing secure from the prying eyes of attackers. Hence you need a reliable and effective VPN that will keep your data encrypted and give you a secure and confidential browsing experience on your favorite browser. When you are connected to a VPN the data on your Mac device will be encrypted.

And it will be harmless as compared to when you are connected to public Wi-Fi your data is exposed and there are a lot of chances that it may get leaked by any means. Hence, it is crucial to use a reliable VPN service to have peace of mind and a sense of security from any kind of threat .

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> VPN > The Best VPNs for Safari in 2023

The Best VPNs for Safari in 2023

Need a quality VPN provider to protect and enhance your online travels in the Safari browser? Here are the top seven VPNs for Safari.

The Safari web browser comes already installed with Apple devices, such as the iPad, iPhone and Mac. It’s no surprise that, with the popularity of Apple devices, Safari currently ranks as the second most popular browser in the world , with a 15.4% share of the market as of April 2022.

If you’re one of the many internet users who choose to browse online with Safari, I will show you how you can improve your browsing experience by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

• How Can a VPN Improve My Safari Browsing Experience?

A VPN encases your internet connection in a tunnel of encryption and routes it through the VPN’s servers. This makes you more secure online, hides your real location, and helps you gain access to more content, such as overseas video streams that are blocked by region.

The thing is, most VPNs don’t offer a Safari browser extension. This is because Apple doesn’t support many third-party extensions, and charges an annual fee to the ones it does.

But that’s okay because browser extensions don’t protect all of your online activities as a full VPN app does. In fact, I always recommend that users opt for a full VPN app rather than a browser extension, as it gives you more protection and covers all traffic from your device.

In this article, I go over the seven best VPNs for use with the Safari browser.

• How to Use a VPN With Safari

In order to get started using a VPN with Safari, you need to take a few simple steps.

• Choose a VPN that works well with Safari and can provide robust security and privacy. I would also recommend choosing a VPN that can unblock content from overseas to give you options when traveling abroad. I’ve rated NordVPN as the best VPN for Safari.
• Install the VPN app for your device from your VPN provider’s website.
• Launch the VPN app, log into your account and select a VPN server to connect to .
• Once connected to the VPN server, launch the Safari web browser . When using the VPN app, all web traffic from your device, including the Safari browser, will be fully encrypted and safe from hackers and online surveillance.
• Best VPNs for Safari

If you’re looking for a quick answer on which VPNs are the best VPNs for Safari, you can read the summary below. I will go into more detail in the full review later on.

• NordVPN : #1 VPN pick for Safari. The provider offers lightning-fast speeds, strong security and privacy protections, and excellent content-unblocking ability.  
• Surfshark : Budget-priced Safari VPN. A newer, but growing, budget-priced VPN provider that performs very well on security, with reasonably good speeds and top-level security and encryption. Capable of unlocking major content streaming services.
• ExpressVPN : Premium Safari VPN. ExpressVPN was the only VPN to offer a dedicated Safari browser extension, but has dropped support for the extension. It offers fast speeds, excellent security, and a great content-unblocking ability.
• CyberGhost : Easy-to-use VPN for Safari. A VPN with top-level encryption standards and rapid speeds. Offers a large number of servers and is able to unblock big-name streaming websites, like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
• Private Internet Access : Reliable protection for Safari. This well-established and respected VPN delivers comprehensive online protection and reliable access to geo-controlled content.
• PrivateVPN : Comprehensive online protection. This provider has a small but well laid out global server network, reliably unblocking geo-restricted content. Offers high levels of security and privacy.
• Atlas VPN : Expected improvement. This provider currently offers a rather limited global server network, and still doesn’t offer support for some popular devices. However, it was recently purchased by NordVPN’s parent company, so expect improvements in the near future.

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There's no catch, just contact support within the 30 day trial period if you decide the service isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Begin your NordVPN trial now .

To rank the best VPNs for Safari, I used the following criteria:

• Works well with Safari
• Strong security/encryption
• Good range of servers
• Can unblock streaming sites like Netflix
• Easy-to-use apps
• Best VPNs for Safari – Summary table

Below, I’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Safari.

Here are my full reviews of the top seven VPNs for Safari.

Apps Available:

Website:   www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee:   30 DAYS

NordVPN ranks as the #1 best VPN for Safari thanks to its solid encryption, comprehensive privacy protections, blazingly fast speeds, and extensive content-unblocking ability.

NordVPN has a large network of servers and several easy-to-use desktop and mobile apps, which work well and encrypt all traffic to and from your device. This includes any apps you have running in the background and any data sent while you are using the Safari browser.

Since there is no Safari browser plugin, you’ll have to use the full NordVPN desktop client or mobile version, which provides the best security. This includes 256-bit encryption, which is the same grade of security that the U.S. military uses.

NordVPN’s connection speeds scored as some of the fastest of all of the VPNs I’ve tested, making it an excellent provider if you have a need for speed.

Because NordVPN operates one of the largest VPN networks available, at the time of this article the provider had over 5,400 servers in 60 countries , you have the option to unblock content from almost anywhere around the globe.

In tests, I found several versions of the Netflix website, including U.S. and U.K. libraries, could be unblocked. You can also bypass geo-restrictions for BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video with this VPN.

There’s a number of top privacy and security settings available, including government-grade encryption, a kill switch , DNS and IP leak protection, and a zero-logs policy on user traffic and metadata. The provider also lets you pay with the privacy-friendly Bitcoin.

The provider owns and operates its entire global server network (keeping third-party operators away from your personal data). Plus, the provider runs all of its servers 100% exclusively from RAM. This means no data is written to a physical hard drive, erasing it whenever the server is rebooted.

There are apps available for devices operating on Windows, macOS (including M1 Mac support), Android, and iOS, as well as Amazon Fire, Android TV, and Linux. Also available is comprehensive router support.

• Encrypts Safari traffic to military standard
• Unblocks Netflix and BBC iPlayer
• Ridiculously fast speeds
• Strong privacy settings
• Large server network
• Connection to some servers can be slow

BEST VPN FOR SAFARI: NordVPN offers the best protection and performance for your Safari browsing adventures. The provider offers fast download speeds, extensive content-unblocking ability, and impressive security and privacy protections. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read our full review of NordVPN .

• 2. Surfshark

Website:   www.Surfshark.com

Surfshark offers its high level of service at a budget-friendly price. Although a relatively new VPN provider, it has already shown that it has strong capabilities.

It offers over 3,200 servers in 65+ countries, giving a wide range of access to different content. This includes the ability to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and more. (The provider delivers access to more than 30 Netflix libraries around the globe.)

Speeds register as very fast , making it good for streaming TV online, and security is good for all traffic sent via Safari and on the rest of your device.

Available security features include bank-grade encryption and DNS and IP leak protection, while the Windows and Mac versions have a kill switch that automatically disconnects you from the internet should your connection to the VPN unexpectedly drop.

Privacy-wise, Surfshark does well, keeping no logs of your online activities and accepting Bitcoin in exchange for its services.

A popular feature of this VPN is its allowance of unlimited simultaneous connections to the VPN from a single plan, so every device can be covered.

Surfshark supports a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS (also offers M1 support), Android, iOS, Linux, Android TV, and Amazon Fire. The apps are user-friendly and have an easy-to-use interface. The provider also offers excellent router support.

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu
• Speedy connections
• Advanced settings are missing

BEST FOR BUDGET: Surfshark offers its exceptional service at a surprisingly low price. The provider boasts fast speeds and an unlimited simultaneous connections policy, allowing you to connect as many devices as you want to its servers at once. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read our full review of Surfshark .

• 3. ExpressVPN

Website:   www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN was the only VPN service on this list that offered a dedicated browser extension for Safari. However, Safari version 12 and up changes the way browser extensions are allowed, and ExpressVPN dropped their browser extension support for Safari.

it should be noted that ExpressVPN’s app does work just fine with the Safari browser, and provides excellent protection with Safari and any other Mac browser.

When it comes to the full ExpressVPN app, connections are fast and reliable. There’s a large selection of servers, and at the time of writing, this includes 3,000+ servers in 160 locations across 94 countries .

ExpressVPN does an excellent job of unblocking geo-restricted content, and it’s able to stream Netflix U.S and U.K, Amazon Prime Video , Hulu , BBC iPlayer , and many of the growing number of network-based streaming services, including All 4 , ABC Go , and others.

The ExpressVPN desktop client and mobile app provide military-grade AES encryption of your data – Additional security features include a kill switch on the desktop version, IP and DNS leak protection, and a no-logs policy.

Privacy protections include the fact that ExpressVPN follows a no-logs policy and accepts Bitcoin as a secure payment method. All ExpressVPN servers are run exclusively from RAM, never writing any information to a physical hard drive. This ensures that all data is wiped from a server when it is rebooted.

Apps are available for all major operating systems, including iOS, Mac, Windows, and Android, as well as Amazon Fire, Linux, and Chrome OS. The provider offers some of the best router support in the industry, offering custom firmware for numerous routers.

There’s no free trial with ExpressVPN, but there is a 30-day “no-hassle” money-back guarantee.

• Fast connection speeds
• Military-grade encryption
• Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and more
• Operates a network of more than 3,000 servers spanning 94 countries
• More expensive than other VPNs
• Only allows 5 simultaneous connections

GREAT FOR STREAMING: If you have a hankering for international streaming content, ExpressVPN may be for you. Its fast speeds, excellent content-unblocking ability, and wide global server network allow you to access content all over the world. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN .

• 4. CyberGhost

Website:   www.CyberGhost.com

Money-back guarantee:   45 DAYS

Using CyberGhost is easy thanks to apps that are quick to download, easy to install and simple to use, with a clean and intuitive interface.

All your web traffic sent through Safari will be encrypted to the current highest available standards, 256-bit. In addition, any background applications accessing the internet from your device will be encrypted, and all data will be secured.

If one of the reasons you’d like to use a VPN is to access geo-restricted content from around the world, CyberGhost performs well, unblocking all the major streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. One downside is that it currently struggles to unblock Amazon Prime Video.

There’s a good choice of servers, with over 7,900 servers in more than 90 countries . DNS and IP leak protection is available to mask your real IP address at all times, and there’s a kill switch that works on all supported platforms. Military-grade encryption is the standard here.

CyberGhost protects your privacy with a strict no-logs policy and an acceptance of Bitcoin as a private payment method.

Supported platforms include Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, Amazon Fire, and Android TV. Also available is compatibility with multiple routers.

CyberGhost also offers other security and privacy features, including password management, antivirus and anti-malware protection, a feature that alerts you when your email address is included in a data breach, Windows privacy customization and much more.

• Strong, secure encryption
• Easy-to-use desktop and mobile apps
• Good choice of server locations
• Has trouble unblocking Amazon Prime Video
• Not many advanced options

BEST FOR BEGINNERS: CyberGhost is a good choice for users looking to encrypt Safari browser traffic and all other traffic going to and from their device. Rapid speeds make it good to use for streaming, and the apps are very easy to use. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost .

• 5. Private Internet Access

Website:   www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access VPN (PIA) provides reliable online protection and enhancement for Safari browser users, along with protecting users of other devices, browsers and routers.

PIA offers native app options for the Windows, Linux, macOS, Android and iOS device platforms. The provider also supports multiple router makes and models.

The provider’s global server network includes 3,300+ servers stationed in 80+ countries around the globe, providing reliable access to geo-fenced content around the globe.

Although this provider’s connection speeds are not as fast as the other VPNs on this list, it can easily handle any of your favorite online activities (as long as your usual ISP-provided download speeds can handle them, of course).

All PIA-provided connections are well-protected by government-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention and a kill switch . The provider also offers ad and tracker blocking, malware protection and malicious sites.

The provider’s servers save no server logs of any kind. Plus, the provider accepts Bitcoin, keeping your payment information incognito when you use a disposable email address to sign up.

The provider covers your support needs, via a live support chat option, a trouble ticket form and a searchable support library.

Up to 10 devices can be simultaneously connected on a single user account.

• Protects Safari and other online activities
• Excellent online security and privacy
• Up to 10 devices can be connected at once
• No streaming or downloading-optimized servers
• Has issues working properly in some restrictive regions

WELL-ESTABLISHED VPN: Private Internet Access  provides comprehensive online protection for most popular devices. An impressive global server network provides access to geo-protected content in most areas of the world. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read our full review of Private Internet Access .

• 6. PrivateVPN

Website:   www.PrivateVPN.com

PrivateVPN is a smaller VPN in terms of the size of its server network, with just 200 servers available to choose from. However, the servers within this network are well distributed across 60 countries, giving it a good reach.

The desktop and mobile apps are easy to use and can provide high-level encryption for all data going to and from your device on the internet, including all web traffic on Safari.

Users will be able to change their IP via the VPN connection and access restricted content from around the globe, including streaming sites like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Netflix video content.

PrivateVPN is also one of the fastest VPNs currently on the market, making it a good choice for watching video content, and users should have no problems with buffering or lag, even when watching in HD.

Privacy is assured, as PrivateVPN makes it almost impossible for anyone to access your details. There’s a zero-logging policy , and even your ISP can’t see what you’re doing online.

Easy-to-use apps are available for iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows. No browser extensions to be found here. However, router support is.

The provider’s support options include live chat, email, a contact form and a FAQ page.

• Great speeds
• Excellent customer support
• Unblocks Netflix U.S., U.K., and others
• Live chat is not available 24/7
• Small number of servers

GREAT SPEEDS: PrivateVPN protects your traffic sent through Safari with top encryption standards and privacy features, and it delivers some of the fastest VPN speeds available. A downside is that the provider’s server network is relatively small. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of PrivateVPN .

• 7. Atlas VPN

Website:   https://atlasvpn.com/

Money-back guarantee:   30 days

Atlas VPN provides reliable protection for your Safari browsing activities and other online activities, while also providing impressively fast connections.

AtlasVPN’s native support includes apps for macOS, Windows, Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV and iOS devices. Linux, router and browser extension support are not available but are being developed.

Users can connect as many devices as they’d like at once to the provider’s global server network, which is made up of 750+ servers located in over 42 countries.

Banking-level encryption, a kill switch and other security and privacy protections keep your online antics undercover. The provider offers “Safebrowse and Safebrowse Plus” to block malicious websites and ads.

The provider’s no-server-logs-ever policy ensures that no one will ever have access to evidence of your online travels, because the logs don’t exist. Multiple cryptocurrency payment options will help keep your payment information undercover, especially when used with a disposable email address.

Atlas VPN’s connection speeds are fast and can easily handle your favorite online activities. No data cap or throttling policies imposed here.

A live (subscriber only) chat option, email, a contact form, and a support database help you in your time of need.

• Reliable protection for your online travels
• Comprehensive security and privacy
• Fast, well-protected connections
• No Linux support
• No router support
• No browser support

UNLIMITED VPN COVERAGE: Atlas VPN’s reliable online security  and privacy helps protect most Safari users. While the provider lacks support for Linux, routers, and browsers, the company says it is in development. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

• Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Safari

While Safari does offer some excellent online privacy features on its own, it doesn’t change the fact that browsing the web can be perilous. The categories below are what I consider when ranking VPN providers for use while with Safari:

• Safari Device Compatibility: While none of the VPNs on this list currently offer a Safari extension, all of them offer apps for the macOS, iOS and iPadOS device platforms. This ensures that all of your Safari-related browsing is well-protected and enhanced.
• Security and Privacy: A VPN should protect its users’ connections with (at the very least) banking-level encryption, a kill switch and DNS /IP leak protection. A VPN should never save server logs recording your online activities. All of the VPNs on my lists offer this and more.
• Connection Speed: Slow connection speeds can make a browsing session less than enjoyable. The less a VPN slows down your internet connection, the better. None of the VPNs on my list slows down your connection to an unusable level.
• Value: A VPN should never ask for more than its worth. Their asking price should be in line with their service offerings. All of the VPNs on my list deliver a good value for the money.
• Ease of Use: Ease of use is an important factor to consider when mulling VPNs, as you’ll likely be using your Safari browser off and on during the day. The VPNs on my list offer easy-to-use apps providing fast connections for most popular platforms, including macOS, iOS and iPadOS.
• Server Network: A large global server network provides reliable access to geo-fenced content around the globe. Look for a provider that has a large number of servers in each location, helping to prevent individual servers from having its performance taking a hit by being overloaded with too many users at once.
• Streaming: Streaming video is a popular activity among online users. Any VPN worth considering should offer access to popular streaming services. Most VPNs that I include on my lists deliver reliable access to many popular streamers, such as Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , Hulu and others.

While the above list covers many factors that should be considered when mulling over a VPN decision, the research does not end here. This list is just a small part of what I research as part of my comprehensive VPN testing methodology . This approach helps me to better understand VPN providers and their services.

• Why Is a Full VPN Better Than a Browser Extension?

Many VPN providers offer a lightweight browser extension for Google Chrome and Firefox, but none that I have seen offer a Safari browser extension.

It is possible that Apple’s notorious compatibility issues and its selectivity when it comes to approving third-party apps are the reasons why most VPN providers don’t offer browser extensions for Safari . The Cupertino firm also now requires that all Safari browser extensions be approved by them.

This is not a major problem, though, as browser extensions are not full VPNs and cannot deliver the best security and privacy standards for your device. A full VPN can cover all your Safari browser traffic in addition to the rest of your device’s traffic, all at the same time.

Web browser extensions work via encrypted proxies that act as a middle man, hiding your real location. This server sits between your web browser and the internet, obscuring your real IP address and replacing it with the server’s IP instead.

This kind of proxy server can be used in your browser to bypass geo-restricted content and encrypt your traffic. However, browsers have a vulnerability to WebRTC leaks, which can expose your IP address. A full VPN is able to protect you against WebRTC leaks, keeping your security intact.

• What Browser Is Right for You?

When using a browser to use the web, there are a number of factors that influence which one is best for you.

These can include compatibility with your operating system, speed, built-in security features, compatibility with other plugins, VPNs, and tools that you may want to use.

Below, you can find a quick overview of the pros and cons of each browser.  This can be used to help you decide which browser will best fit your needs.

The Onion Router (TOR)

Tor is considered one of the most secure and private browsers around. It offers a little bit more than a standard browser, offering a suite of security tools.

Traffic in the Tor browser is routed via random points around the world, making your online activity very difficult to track. Tor also blocks tracking cookies and store no data.

On the negative side, the performance of Tor can be slow.

Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge browser is a secure and fast web browser. It comes with Windows 10 and is now also available on Android and iOS. It performs well at blocking malware and phishing websites.

This browser is bulky, at 23 MB compared to other mainstream browsers, like Chrome and Firefox, which are much lighter. Another negative is that Microsoft Edge isn’t compatible with Mac computers or PCs running early versions of Windows.

Google Chrome

Google Chrome is the most popular browser available today, with over 1 billion users worldwide.

The browser offers reliable and fast performance, it’s compatible with countless plugins, and it can be extended and tweaked to really make it a personal experience that works for you. Most top-tier VPNs also offer a dedicated Chrome plugin.

Privacy can be a concern, as Google collects and uses user data, and the browser is quite resource-hungry, not performing well on machines without adequate RAM.

Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is a very light and fast browser with lots of functionality.

It’s light on system resources, so it can be used even on older laptops or systems with less RAM. Firefox is great for privacy tools, and as it’s produced by Mozilla, a non-profit company, it does not have the same incentive to sell user data, as other browsers do.

Firefox has a decent number of compatible plugins and can block ad trackers. Most top-tier VPNs also make a browser extension that is compatible with Firefox.

Safari is native to Apple’s iOS and macOS and is the best browser for Apple devices. Safari is also compatible with Android phones and tablets, but it doesn’t work with Windows-based PCs.

Safari is fast to launch and load pages quickly, and it does a great job of warning users about dangerous websites, malware, and phishing.

Safari can’t match browsers like Firefox and Chrome for plugins and customization options. However, it does offer added privacy protections over Edge, Firefox, and Chrome.

• Which VPNs Offer VPN Extensions for Safari?

At the time of writing, none of the major VPN providers offer VPN extensions for Safari.

• What Is the Best iPhone VPN?

The best VPN for Safari is also the best VPN for iPhone: NordVPN. With its fast connections, iPhone native app and more, the VPN will offer excellent service for both Safari and iPhones. See my Best VPN for iPhone article for more information.

• Does Safari Have a VPN?

No, Safari has no integrated VPN functionality. That makes it important to get a VPN app to protect your internet travels while you're using Safari.

Encrypting your web traffic comes with many benefits, including better online security and the option to stop anyone else from seeing your online activity, even your ISP.

NordVPN is the best VPN for Safari. Although it doesn’t offer a standalone Safari browser extension, considering the fact that it’s safer to just use a full VPN app, NordVPN is the best option. Its lightning-fast speeds, wide global server coverage, and strong security and privacy protections make it attractive.

Contents [ hide ]

Roundup - best VPNs for speed

Privacy alert: websites you visit can see these details about you:.

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage.

By using a VPN you can hide these details and protect your privacy.

I recommend NordVPN - the top provider in my testing . It offers outstanding privacy features and there is currently a discounted rate available through this link .

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• VPN & Privacy
• Best VPNs for Safari

The 7 Best VPNs for Safari in 2023 – With Browser Extensions

The Safari browser comes bundled with Mac OS X and macOS. If you have a Mac, you already have Safari. iOS device owners can download the browser, but there is no version available for Windows, Android, or Linux. In this article, we’ll cover the best VPNs for Safari and why you should use one.

We’ll cover more details about the Best VPNs for Safari in this post, but here’s our quick summary.

We found these to be the 7 best VPNs for Safari:

• NordVPN Our #1 choice for Safari. Superfast servers that deliver on streaming. Tight privacy and robust security. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Surfshark Great budget VPN. A no-logs VPN that works perfectly on iOS and MacOS. Decent speeds, excellent unblocking ability, and the ability to connect all of your devices at once.
• ExpressVPN Solid with iOS and MacOS. Secure and private connections. Unblocks restricted content with ease and great for streaming.
• CyberGhost Good value VPN. Works with Macs and iOS devices.
• IPVanish Works well with Macs and iOS devices. Good speeds, privacy, and secure connections.
• PrivateVPN An increasingly popular service with fast speeds. Good for streaming.
• Hotspot Shield A fast VPN with easy-to-use apps for both iOS and MacOS. Also offers a wide range of security features.

If you use the Safari browser to surf the web, you should know about extra protection that you can add on to your connections. A VPN will protect your privacy and allow you to get around regional restrictions that many websites impose on access. This means that you will be able to access video streaming services from other countries, even though your location would normally get you locked out.

WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?

NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page . You can use our top VPN for Safari with no restrictions for a month — great if you want to take its privacy features for a spin before you commit.

There are no hidden terms or conditions — just tell support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here .

There are many benefits to using a VPN, which you can read about further down in this report. However, your first decision is which VPN provider to choose. When looking for the best VPN for Safari, you need to take into account the following features:

• Can be installed on Macs and iOS devices
• Has fast speeds
• Offers strong encryption
• Can dodge regional restrictions

With these criteria in mind, we have compiled a list of the seven best VPNs for Safari.

Best VPNs for Safari – at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Safari.

Best VPN Service Providers for Safari

Apps Available:

Website: www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our top pick for a Safari VPN. You get access to servers in 59 countries and the app is excellent at getting around regional restrictions. NordVPN does not keep any logs, which helps hide your identity on the internet. You can connect to the service on six devices all at the same time, and the website has a long list of tutorials on how to install the VPN manually on your router — that counts as just one connection.

You can install the NordVPN app on Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS, to cover your Safari browser. There is also an app available for Windows and Android and you can install the system manually on Linux computers and devices.

NordVPN doesn’t offer a Safari browser extension. However, it does have a supplementary service, called an HTTP proxy, which you can set up on your browser. A tutorial on the website explains how to set it up. A web proxy isn’t as good as a VPN because it doesn’t give you any extra encryption or other security measures, it just changes your apparent location.

The NordVPN app includes many excellent online security features. These include encryption on all of your connections and there is also a kill switch. You can choose a double-hop route that will travel through two different VPN servers and encrypt your connections twice over. You may also connect to the Tor network through NordVPN. Your online privacy is protected further by NordVPN’s strict no-logs policy.

NordVPN speed test data

• Safari browser can be paired with a HTTP proxy, or you can install a dedicated app
• Blazing fast speeds
• Huge network of servers
• Most apps feature a process-specific kill switch
• Great customer support
• Desktop app can take some getting used to

BEST VPN FOR SAFARI: NordVPN is our top choice . Tops our list of the fastest VPNs and performs well in all other categories. Strong security features and allows up to 6 devices to be used simultaneously from one account. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark

Website: www.Surfshark.com

Surfshark is a low-cost VPN that offers access to 3,200 servers across 65 countries, which alone would make it a robust choice. However, it also boasts a wealth of extra security features including 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. Best of all, this service allows you to connect as many devices as you like, ensuring you never have to browse the web unprotected.

This service takes your privacy very seriously. Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information but if you’re worried about anonymity, you can sign up almost completely anonymously by paying in cryptocurrency (it accepts Bitcoin, Ripple, and Ethereum).

Surfshark doesn’t have a Safari browser extension, but it does offer apps for MacOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux. Further, it can be manually installed on supported internet routers.

Surfshark speed test data

• Powerful security and privacy protections
• Fast enough for almost anything
• Has no connection limit
• 24/7 support
• Some slow speeds

BEST BUDGET VPN: Surfshark lets you protect every device you own. Better still, with a no-logging policy, high speeds, and strong multi-platform support, you don’t have to trade security for convenience. This service has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Surfshark review.

3. ExpressVPN

Website: www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN fulfills all the requirements for a Safari VPN. You can install the VPN app and use that to cover everything on your device. The ExpressVPN app is available for all of the operating systems that Safari runs on: Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS. You can also install the system on the Windows and Android operating systems, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Amazon Fire TV, Kindle Fire tablets, and Linux machines. You get an allowance of three simultaneous connections, so that you can have other gadgets covered by the VPN as well as your Safari browser at the same time.

ExpressVPN has an automatic installer for select routers. A router installation counts as only one of your five concurrent connection allowance even though it covers all of the internet-connected devices in your home.

ExpressVPN includes military-grade encryption, which is essential if you want to connect to the internet in repressive countries. As well as using 256-bit AES encryption with the OpenVPN system, it also employs 4096-bit RSA encryption for session establishment, which is the strongest available on the market.

This service is also very good at evading detection, which makes it a good option for places like China and Iran. It will also help you securely access all kinds of services including Netflix. ExpressVPN has an impressive network of servers in 94 countries, which gives you many options when you want to appear to be in a different country. The company does not keep connection logs.

Security features include a kill switch, which will prevent all the apps on your device from connecting to the internet if the VPN is not active. You also get automatic wifi protection with the ExpressVPN app, which is essential if you tend to use wifi hotspots in public places.

ExpressVPN speed test data

• Fast servers are great for streaming HD content
• Best-in-class encryption makes for solid security and privacy
• Gets around torrent tracker sites blocks without compromising privacy
• Excellent support
• A bit pricier than rivals
• Could offer more customizable features

GREAT UNBLOCKER: ExpressVPN is fast and reliable . It unblocks restricted content on all major streaming services. Strong security and privacy. The only VPN in this list with a dedicated Safari browser extension. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

4. CyberGhost

Website: www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost doesn’t have a Safari browser extension, but you can install it on Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS. Apps are also available for Windows and Android, and you can install the system manually on routers and Linux computers.

The service gives you access to a massive and secure server network in 80+ countries and a special cloaking option will help you in places that have tough government restrictions on internet access. The VPN connections are connected by AES 256-bit encryption and 4096-bit RSA encryption for session establishment. A kill switch and automatic wifi protection are built into the app.

The company doesn’t hold any details on its customers. All payment processing is carried out by a third party and you are only identified on the CyberGhost system by an account number. The company does not keep activity logs and it is based in Romania where there are no data retention requirements.

The app’s interface opens with an activities screen where you can choose a VPN server adjusted for activities such as watching streaming videos or downloading. You get an allowance of five simultaneous connections with CyberGhost and the company gives all new customers a 45-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost speed test data

• Easy to use apps work well with Safari
• Streams HD video content seamlessly
• Kill switch on all apps and keeps no logs
• Torrenting and P2P won’t work on all server locations

GOOD FOR BEGINNERS: CyberGhost is easy to use. Fast and reliable internet connections with a good range of servers. Great privacy with zero logs and DNS leak protection. 45-day money back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

5. IPVanish

Website: www.IPVanish.com

IPVanish offers good speeds for accessing streaming video and the company has its server network in 60 countries. There isn’t an IPVanish Safari browser extension, however, there are apps for Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS operating systems, which will protect your browser traffic. You can also install an IPVanish app on Windows and Android, including manually on Amazon Fire devices and routers. The company gives you an allowance of five concurrent connections.

The company is based in the United States, which may worrisome because the NSA and other law enforcement are known to apply secret pressure to IT companies to access customer information. However, IPVanish offers strong security with the AES encryption system, using a 256-bit key through the OpenVPN methodology. The other VPNs in our list of the best VPNs Safari also use this level of protection.

This level of protection is also used by the other VPNs in our list of the best VPNs for Safari.

A key privacy feature of the VPN service is that it keeps no logs. This is important if you want to download files with the BitTorrent protocol. Copyright lawyers in the USA are particularly active, so if your chosen VPN company retains activity or connection records, you would lose your privacy. The IPVanish app includes a kill switch and automatic wifi protection, which will prevent your real IP address from being detected by snoopers on the internet.

IPVanish offers a seven-day money-back guarantee.

IPVanish speed test data

• Provides secure apps for Mac OS X, macOS and iOS
• Keeps no logs, has automatic kill switch and wifi protection
• Works with Netflix US
• Apps don’t work in China

UP TO 10 DEVICES: IPVanish has a large network of servers . Generally solid for Safari users. Adhere to the highest standard of privacy, but can struggle with unblocking some popular streaming sites. 7-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

6. PrivateVPN

Website: www.PrivateVPN.com

PrivateVPN is based in Sweden, but its support staff all speak excellent English. The support team can be contacted online during European office hours via a live chat window on the service’s website. The team is very competent and can even take control of your computer remotely to fix problems for you. However, you are unlikely to encounter any problems installing this app because it comes with an install wizard that will get the VPN operating without much input from you.

You can protect Safari browser by installing the PrivateVPN app on Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS devices. Apps are available for Windows and Android, and you can install the VPN manually on routers, Amazon fire devices, and the Linux operating system.

PrivateVPN runs servers in 56 countries. This is a particularly good option if you like to download with torrents because the company does not keep any logs. The OpenVPN protocol is protected with 256-bit AES solid encryption. You also get a kill switch and automatic wifi protection options with the PrivateVPN app.

The service gives each customer an allowance of six simultaneous connections and you get a 30-day money-back guarantee to try out the system.

PrivateVPN speed test data

• Has an easy install wizard for Mac OS X, MacOS and iOS devices
• Strong security and privacy protection features
• Keeps no logs whatsoever
• Support staff are good, but only operate during European business hours
• Small number of servers to choose from

GREAT SPEEDS: PrivateVPN is a good family choice . Speeds were surprisingly good at this end of the market. It could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

7. Hotspot Shield

Website: www.Hotspotshield.com

Editor’s Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.

Hotspot Shield operates more than 3,000 servers in 70+ countries. Its connection speed is fast and reliable, so you won’t have to worry about lag or buffering when streaming video content. This service keeps your online activities private using a combination 256-bit AES encryption, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, and a kill switch that stops all data-transferal if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

This service offers a feature that automatically turns on the VPN any time you connect to an unsecured wireless network. It also allows you to decide which websites are allowed to bypass the VPN (if any). Hotspot Shield doesn’t keep any personally identifiable information after your session ends . If you need any help, customer support is available via 24/7 live chat.

Hotspot Shield offers apps for MacOS, iOS, Windows, and Android devices, although there’s no Safari browser extension.

Hotspot Shield speed test data

• High speed connection
• Strong on security
• Very easy to use
• Doesn’t work on Linux
• Has had privacy issues in the past

IDEAL FOR STREAMING: Hotspot Shield is a fast, reliable VPN that unblocks restricted content on a huge range of region-locked services. It’s well worthy of your consideration with powerful security features, dedicated apps for Apple platforms, and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Hotspot Shield review.

How we found the best VPNs for Safari: our methodology

In order to find the best VPNs for Safari, we had to test them out for ourselves! After all, not all VPNs offer apps that are compatible with the browser. Others may prove too slow or simply be lacking security. Read on to find out a little bit more about our methodology:

• Mac and iOS-compatible: All of the VPNs in this post provide apps for Mac and iOS and can therefore be used to secure apps on these devices as well as Safari browser traffic. Of course, they also include apps for Windows and Android just in case you have a few more devices that you’d like to secure.
• Servers worldwide: Many people use VPNs to bypass geographic and censorship restrictions. As such, it’s important for a VPN to provide servers in dozens of countries including the US, UK, and Australia. It also means there’s more likely to be a fast server close to your physical location.
• Speed: Some VPNs vary significantly when it comes to speed. While this may not make a huge difference when it comes to browsing, you’ll certainly notice the difference when streaming or downloading. Having found the fastest VPNs with unlimited bandwidth, you won’t have to worry about performance.
• Unblocking: Some websites and services are harder to unblock than others. That’s because some actively blacklist VPN IP addresses. Our tests have revealed the best VPNs for bypassing even the toughest of restrictions — even those of streaming services such as BBC iPlayer and Disney+.
• Security: A VPN is supposed to secure the internet traffic traveling between your browsing device and the Internet. Somewhat surprisingly, some fail to do this! However, you can rest assured that all of the VPNs recommended here provide encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
• Privacy:  Having looked at some 140 VPN logging policies , we know which protect your privacy and which don’t (some will log and sell your browsing data to third parties!). In some cases, you can sign up to a VPN anonymously by using a burner email and by paying in Bitcoin.
• Ease of use: The Mac or iOS app you use with Safari will be quick and easy to use. They’re the most beginner-friendly on the market without compromising on advanced features. Live chat and email support are also included so that even if you encounter an issue, help (and hopefully a solution!) is available.
• Value for money: Ideally, a VPN should offer multiple subscription options. The longer the subscription, the lower the monthly amount you pay. The best VPNs for Safari offer this flexibility and even come with a money-back guarantee. What’s more, we even offer discount coupons so you’ll pay even less!

We look for a VPN to offer all of the above. However, we don’t just take them at their word. Instead, we try them out for ourselves as part of our VPN testing methodology .

Do free VPNs work with Safari?

It is better to avoid free VPN services. You won’t find any that will give you full privacy protection. Keeping ahead of restrictions and the detection systems of governments and websites costs a lot of money. So, you should be suspicious of companies that claim to offer a full VPN service for free. How do they pay their bills?

Some free VPNs are scams and rather than protecting your personal information, their VPN apps actually harvest it to sell to advertisers. A VPN is not a VPN without encryption and, surprisingly, many free VPNs don’t include any encryption at all. These services give you a false sense of security and can actually prove to be dangerous. All of the internet traffic that passes through your connection is available for any interceptor to read if your VPN does not use encryption.

Many reputable VPN services offer a free version to lure in new customers. Obviously, these free versions are not as good as the paid VPNs offered by the same company, otherwise, those providers would never be able to persuade anyone to pay for the service. Usually, those bona fide free services have restrictions imposed on them. These include a limit on the servers that you can access, a limit on the throughput speed, or a limit on the amount of data that you can use each month.

Although free VPNs are tempting, they are usually a waste of time. This is why we do not recommend that you spend precious online hours hunting for bargains. The VPNs on our list offer outstanding value for money.

VPN browser extension or app?

You will notice that ExpressVPN is the only service on our list that actually has a browser extension for Safari. You also get an app with ExpressVPN and nine times out of ten, you would be better off using the app rather than the browser extension. This is because the browser extension only covers the internet transmissions that go from and to your browser. In the meantime, lots of background processes and apps on your computer will also be accessing the internet.

When you only use a browser VPN, all of the other internet activities on your computer are not protected. This means that they all communicate using your real IP address and all of the computers that they connect to can also be recorded by your internet service provider. So, if you have a downloading client running on your computer and you are only using the browser extension VPN, those transactions performed by the downloader will all be visible to anyone on your network.

The HTTP proxy offered by NordVPN will change the location of all of your browser transactions, but won’t give you any encryption. As with the browser VPN extension, a web proxy set up in your browser won’t cover any of the other apps running on your computer that also connect to the internet. Overall, when you have a choice between a VPN app and a VPN browser extension, it is better to use the app.

VPNs for Safari

So, there you have it – our list of the best VPNs to use with Safari. All of these services will keep your connections encrypted and safe from prying eyes, and they will help you to bypass any regional restrictions that are stopping you from accessing your favorite websites or streaming services.

Take advantage of the money-back periods offered by the services on our list to give a few of them a spin without any risk.

Let me know in the comments below which VPN you decided to go with and how it is working out for you.

Safari Browser FAQs

Is safari browser available for windows.

There is a version of Safari that will work on Windows. However, this is an old version because Apple stopped developing Safari for Windows in 2012. To get Safari for Windows, you need to download Safari 5.1.7. This will run on Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10.

How do I uninstall and reinstall Safari on Mac?

Safari is built into the operating system of Macs from OS X El Capitan (10.11), so it isn’t possible to uninstall it individually without removing and reinstalling the entire macOS operating system. For earlier versions, use the CleanMyMac X free utility. Once you have installed the software follow these steps to remove Safari:

• Run CleanMyMac X and select Preferences from the top menu.
• Click Ignore list and select Uninstaller.
• In the Uninstaller option, uncheck Ignore system applications. Scroll through the list of installed applications in the Unistaller tab.
• Click on Safari and select Complete Uninstallation.
• Press the Remove button at the bottom of the screen.

Apple doesn’t expect anyone to remove and reinstall Safari separately. However, there is a facility to update the browser and this will reinstall it if you removed Safari.

• Click on the Apple icon at the start of the top menu bar on your desktop and select App Store from the drop-down menu.
• In the App Store, click on the Updates top menu option.
• Look for the Software Update option and click on More in the description of the item.
• Look for Safari in the list and click the Update button on that line.

Is browsing in Safari's private mode the same as using a VPN?

No, the Private Mode on Safari is not the same as a VPN. The browser Private Mode deletes cookies and trackers from your hard drive when you close the browser window. A VPN secures the connections between your computer and the web servers of the websites that you visit by hiding your location and encrypting the connection.

Will a VPN allow me to browse anonymously on Safari?

VPNs encrypt your data which means that even if it were to be intercepted, it’s almost impossible to crack. The best VPNs also have strict no-logs policies which means none of your data is collected or shared. As such, you can use a VPN to browse anonymously, be it on Safari or any other browser such as Chrome or Firefox . You can connect to these VPNs via desktop and mobile apps or even via browser extensions in some cases.

Does Apple recommend a VPN for Safari?

Apple neither recommends nor advises against VPNs. You can find a number of VPNs listed in the Apple App Store (including those listed in this post). It’s really up to you to decide whether you want and need a VPN, be it for accessing region-locked content or browsing with more security. Note that all major VPNs are compatible with Mac and iOS and many even allow you to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

What if Safari isn't working with my VPN provider?

Safari will work with the VPNs listed in this post. However, if you're having some issues, there are some things you can try. First, check that you're using the latest version of the VPN software. You should also clear your browser's cache and cookies . If you're still having issues, be sure to contact your VPN's customer support for further assistance.

Can I use a VPN to hide my Safari search history?

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic so that your ISP (and others) can't see what you're doing online. However, you will still have a Safari search history stored on your browser. The good news is that there are things you can do to browse without building up a search history. One is to use Safari's Private Browsing mode (incognito). You can also clear your Safari search history should you wish.

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PRIVACY ALERT: Websites you visit can find out who you are

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage.

Using a VPN will hide these details and protect your privacy.

We recommend using NordVPN - #1 of 75 VPNs in our tests. It offers outstanding privacy features and is currently available with three months extra free.

What Is the Best VPN Extension Available on Safari in 2023?

If you have an iOS or macOS device, chances are that you will use the Safari web browser. While Apple devices are generally more secure than any other devices, it does not hurt to add in extra security by taking extra precautions. One way of protecting yourself is by using a VPN. So, what is the best VPN to use on Safari? Let us take a look.

Finding an extension may be more difficult than you first imagined. Apple is a tough company for developers, as it does not support many third-party extensions, including VPNs.

However, some good providers out there cover iOS and macOS devices. ExpressVPN and NordVPN are two very good choices , along with CyberGhost. So, let’s start first with why you might want to use this kind of service.

Why You Should Use a VPN Extension?

A VPN or Virtual Private Network is an extremely powerful tool to provide online protection, but it offers so much more.

Stop cybercriminals from finding your location

If you browse the internet without protection, anyone with a little knowledge can find your IP address along with other information . Cybercriminals know your location and could use that to find more information about you.

A Virtual Private Network masks your IP address while giving you an alternative one.

Remain anonymous to your ISP

Along with this, websites can gather information about you, along with monitoring your browsing activity. Besides, your ISP knows everything that you do online, including any downloads, what websites you visit, and more.

Bypass geo-restrictions

If you go outside of your own country, you are faced with geo-restrictions when you want to stream content from your home country. Using a VPN will allow you to unblock YouTube videos , Netflix, and many more streaming platforms you can browse on Safari.

Overcome censorship

If you visit countries with high censorship, such as China, Russia, or the UAE, you will find many websites are blocked. These typically include the Google range of apps, Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, and more.

You can use a Virtual Private Network to overcome censorship and access websites wherever you are in the world.

Save money on flights and hotels

This type of service can also be useful if you compare hotels and flights online.

Simply choose a server in a country with a lower cost of living than your own and head to your favorite comparison site. You might be surprised as to how much you will be able to save.

Top 3 Best VPN Extension for Safari

Now let’s look at our choice of the top three VPNs usable and working on Safari. We are putting ExpressVPN in the top position, as it is a leading provider all-round, followed by NordVPN and CyberGhost.

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is always our first choice when considering a Virtual Private Network. The provider is constantly working to provide the best plugins for browsers. At the moment, this VPN offers an amazing Safari extension for all iOS and macOS users.

In the meantime, you can install a full-fledged app for iOS or macOS and it is easy to setup. Having an extension is not needed.

With ExpressVPN, you get access to more than 160 locations and 3,000 servers in more than 94 countries around the world. This makes it a great choice for those who want to unblock and stream in HD in countries where geo-restrictions apply.

ExpressVPN offers great savings of 49% on yearly plans, with 3 months free. Alternatively, you can choose to pay monthly or every six months.

Security is top-notch as military-grade encryption is offered, ensuring your information remains secure all the time.

The provider also offers a Kill Switch. This stops traffic from going outside of the encrypted tunnel if the connection drops. DNS leak protection is also included in plans for added security to stop your ISP, hackers, and cybercriminals from seeing what you do online.

NordVPN doesn’t provide the opportunity to add an extension on Safari but you can still use the service by installing an app on your Mac or iOS device . By doing so, you have full protection whether using the browser or outside of it.

With NordVPN, you can remain secure online whether you are using the web browser on your Mac or iOS device or using another app or program.

The provider offers a Double VPN which allows you to remain secure by first connecting to one server and then another.

Another benefit of installing an app on your device is you get access to CyberSec. This is a security suite providing you with better performance. It works by blocking dangerous websites to protect against cyber threats or phishing scams.

It also helps you to avoid botnet control and block ads.

NordVPN also offers military-grade encryption ensuring your private data remains just that, even outside of the web browser.

3. CyberGhost

CyberGhost does not offer a plugin on the Apple browser. However, it does offer apps for iOS and macOS . Using one of the 7,000 servers offered by the provider it is easy to hide your IP. By replacing your IP address, you remain anonymous.

CyberGhost uses 256-bit military-grade encryption so hackers and cybercriminals cannot gain access to your personal information.

As you have installed the app on your macOS or iOS device, you have the security not only when browsing the internet but also when using any other app or program.

How to Use Extensions?

Now that you know the best VPN to use on Safari, let’s look at how to install and use it.

Add an extension

• Open your web browser and click on “Safari” in the top menu or “Extensions” depending on the version of the browser you are using.
• Browse for available extensions.
• Click on the button to install the extension.

To take advantage of the plugin and use it with the browser, all you have to do is open the browser. Plugins generally install an icon on the bar that can be used to easily choose a server, as in the case of ExpressVPN.

Now, when you send information over the connection, it is encrypted and secure . However, if you want full protection, including for browsing the internet, you might want to consider installing an app on your Mac or iOS device.

Installing an app on macOS or iOS device

If you decide not to use a plugin for the browser, you can set up an app on your iOS or macOS device as follows:

• Sign up with a provider and choose a plan.
• Download the app to your iOS or Mac device.
• Install and launch the app.
• Choose a server and connect to that server.
• Browse the internet in total security and anonymity.

The Difference Between an Extension and a Full-Blown VPN

It is important to bear in mind that there is a difference between using an extension for your web browser and a full-blown Virtual Private Network.

If you are only relying on the plugin, the only protection offered is applied to the traffic within your browser. 

However, it does not provide you with encryption and security for any other apps or programs you might use. If you want protection outside of the web browser, you need to install apps on iOS or macOS devices you want to use and run them in the background.

Can I Use a Free VPN on Safari?

There are providers out there offering free VPNs and extensions and you might be tempted to consider using one of these. Providers such as this include ZenMate and HolaVPN.

However, you might want to think again as free ones do not offer the best VPN extension for Safari. If the provider is not charging for the service, it has to get money back somehow, and generally, this is by selling your data.

Free ones also cannot offer the same level of security and anonymity that paid providers do, not to mention the huge amount of servers. So, can you actually use them? YES. Do we recommend them? NO.

So, you now know the best VPN extension for Safari, along with some of the best providers on the market.

You can of course use a plugin for the web browser and it will protect you when browsing the internet. However, a better approach might be to download and install an app directly on your Mac or iPhone.

By doing so, you have protection not only when using the web browser, but also when using any other app or program.

A professional writer with a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Since his youngest age, he loves everything related to internet, technology, fitness, games, and dogs! He joined our team in order to bring his deep knowledge in security services, among which VPN is of course a key component.

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6 Best VPNs for Safari Including Apps & Browser Extension

The blog lists 6 top VPNs for Safari, including VPN apps and browser extensions. Choose free VPN for Safari for utmost privacy and internet security.

By Grace Updated on Jan 04, 2023

Safari won't be unfamiliar to you if you have an apple device. It is the fastest graphical web browser in the world and provides the best-in-class browsing experience. In addition, Safari improves its power efficiency to make the most out of battery usage. People can stream videos or surf websites longer than other browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. Though Safari can protect your internet safety to some degree, many people are still looking for more comprehensive protection.

A VPN for Safari is a good solution. The practical tool can hide your identity, switch the IP address, and unblock websites unavailable in your region. In this article, we will introduce VPN apps for Safari as well as VPN extensions for Safari. Get one of the top picks and protect your online activities with ease!

• #1 iTop VPN
• #2 ExpressVPN
• 4# CyberGhost VPN
• 5# Hotspot Shield VPN
• 6# Private Internet Access VPN

2 Factors Taken into Consideration for Safari VPN

Before choosing a VPN for Safari, there are two factors people should pay attention to.

The first one is compatibility. Safari is a proprietary browser of apple, and it is only available on devices running on the macOS or iOS operating systems. Therefore, checking if the VPN product supports macOS and iOS systems is a must-to-do.

The second one is the types of Safari VPN. People can choose either a VPN application or a VPN extension. However, Apple labels most third-party Safari extensions unsafe, leaving people little choice on Safari VPN extensions.

6 Best VPNs for Safari (macOS/iOS)

After considering the above two factors, the article selects the 6 reliable Safari VPNs in the market and gives a detailed analysis of their main features and prices.

#1 iTop VPN - Best Free VPN App for Safari

iTop VPN has high compatibility that can work on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It gives its users unlimited internet bandwidth with best-in-class encryption. According to the statistics published on Fasted VPN Guide, the fast  VPN free has reached an average speed of 100Mbps. Though the free version caps the data usage to 700MB per day, people can upgrade to a VIP plan at an affordable price.

8,000,000+ Downloads

• Safe VPN for Windows, Mac, iOS
• Connect up to 5 devices simultaneously
• 1800+ VPN servers in 100+ locations
• Block ads, split tunneling, Kill Switch
• Dedicated servers for streaming, gaming, and social media

Other key features of iTop VPN include:

Global VPN Proxy

iTop VPN for Safari has more than 1800 servers in over 100 locations. In addition, it supports 5 simultaneous connections on different devices, so everyone in your family can benefit from one paid account.

Automatic Kill Switch

Kill Switch is a security reinforcement that can cut the internet traffic connection when the VPN service stops working. In this way, your network is under protection, and privacy leakage will never happen.

Exclusive Servers for Different Purposes

The iTop VPN has servers dedicated to streaming, gaming, social media, and downloading. People can choose exclusive servers for a more stable and faster connection.

Price breakdown for iTop VPN for Safari

Free Plan: 700MB/daily 

1-Month Plan: $11.99 ($11.99 /mo)

12-Month Plan: $49.99 ($4.17 /mo)

24-Month Plan: $55.44 ($2.31 /mo)

#2 ExpressVPN - Best Paid VPN Extension for Safari Browser

ExpressVPN has 160 virtual server locations covered worldwide, including the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. As one of the great VPN for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, it is an ideal VPN for Safari to hide IP  and unblock websites. And it is the only dedicated VPN with Safari extension on the list. Meanwhile, the TrustedServer technology and advanced encryption improve your internet security and keep you from being hacked.

Some key features of ExpressVPN include:

Private DNS

ExpressVPN protects not only your internet traffic but also your DNS requests. By running its own encrypted DNS on every server, people no longer worry about DNS hijacking or filtering.

Network Lock

When you disconnect to the ExpressVPN server, Network Lock can keep your data safe by blocking all the inbound and outbound connections on your computer.

Price of ExpressVPN for Safari

Monthly Plan: $10.99 /mo

Yearly Plan: 1st year $38.38 ($3.20 /mo); thereafter $89.99 ($7.50 /mo)

2-Year Plan: 1st -2nd year $69.98 per year ($2.92 /mo); thereafter $89.99 per year($7.50 /mo)

3# NordVPN - Fast VPN App for Safari

NordVPN, an app available on many devices including macOS and Linux, has next-generation encrypted tunnels that prevent your internet from being tracked by internet service providers, hackers, and governments, giving you private access to the internet anywhere Besides, the fast and stable connection allows you to enjoy uninterrupted streaming without annoying buffering, although NordVPN doesn’t offer a Safari extension app.

Some key features of NordVPN include:

Multi-device VPN

No matter you are using Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, or Linux, NordVPN can shield the safety of multiple devices (up to 6) at once with just one subscription.

Dedicated IP

The dedicated IP address allows you to access IP-restricted networks with ease. It brings loads of benefits, such as securing your online payments, skipping the blacklist, and avoiding the Captchas.

Price of NordVPN for Safari

Monthly Plan: $ 11.95 /mo

Yearly Plan: 1st year $59 ($4.92 /mo); thereafter $143.40 ($11.95 /mo)

2-Year Plan: 1st -2nd year $79 per year($3.29 /mo); thereafter $143.40 per year ($11.95 /mo)

You May Need : Best Free VPN for Windows & PC >>

4# CyberGhost VPN - VPN for Safari

CyberGhost VPN is a professional VPN and developed VPN apps for Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS , other browsers, TVs, consoles, and routers. Unfortunately, VPN for Safari Extension is not available now, and its VPN extensions only support Chrome and Firefox browsers.

Worldwide Internet Coverage

CyberGhost has 7484 servers at 113 locations in 91 countries. The worldwide coverage helps you bypass all geo-restrictions and get global access. Besides, all CyberGhost VPN servers support multiple protocols, from L2TP, IPsec to iKEv2, OpenVPN, meeting all your needs.

Military-Grade Encryption

Adopting the AES 256-bit encryption technique, CyberGhost can safeguard your digital information and guarantee your internet security.

Price of CyberGhost VPN for Safari

Monthly Plan: $12.99 /mo

6-Month Plan: $38.34 ($6.39 /mo)

2-Year Plan + 3-Month Plan: 1st -2nd year $58.5 for two years($2.17 /mo)

5# Hotspot Shield VPN for Safari Free

Trusted by millions of people from all over the world, Hotspot Shield VPN has more than 115 servers in over 80 countries. In its basic plan, people can enjoy VPN for Safari free with a 500 MB daily data limit and a 2 Mbps connection speed cap.

Premium plans have more features, and the highlights include:

Optimized Streaming Access

Hotspot Shield has VPN servers dedicated to watching Netflix , YouTube, Hulu, and Disney+. This way, it optimizes access to streaming platforms and stops video buffering when people stream online.

Fast Connection Speed

According to speed tests conducted by Ookla, Hotspot Shield VPN outperforms and came out on top with 1.4x faster over a short-distance connection and 2.2x faster over a long-distance connection compared with other VPN clients.

Price of Hotspot Shield VPN for Safari

Basic Plan: Free Trial

Premium Plan: $7.99 /mo (billed yearly); $12.99 /mo (billed monthly)

Premium Family Plan: $11.99 /mo (billed yearly); $19.99 /mo (billed monthly)

Also Read:  Fast VPN for Mac/MacBook >>

6# Private Internet Access VPN for Safari

Private Internet Access VPN is a privacy protection expert trusted by 15 million users worldwide. The open-source software has high transparency, and people can check open source code themselves. Moreover, Private Internet Access VPN optimizes its network for 10 Gbps, giving its users lightning-fast speeds.

The key features include:

Dedicated IP Address

People won’t share IP addresses with others anymore. Dedicated IP addresses provided by Private Internet Access VPN help you avoid security warnings and get fewer captcha.

Up To 10 Device Connection

Private Internet Access supports up to ten device connections, meeting your multi-device needs.

Price of Private Internet Access VPN for Safari

1-Month Plan: $9.95 /mo

1-Year Plan: $39.95 ($3.33 /mo)

3-Year + 3-Month Plan: $79 for three years($2.03 /mo)

Also Read : Top 5 Free VPN Clients Mac to Safeguard Your Internet on Mac >>

VPN Browser Extension or VPN App for Safari: What to Choose?

Among the 6 VPNs for Safari in the article, there is only 1 VPN that has a Safari browser extension version. The rest are VPN apps for Safari. Under normal situations, VPN app for Safari is more recommended as it can protect your data on Safari, Firefox and other browsers with advanced features. Besides, if you're just looking for a VPN for Safari to hide IP address and unblock websites, you could try the free VPN iTop VPN to achieve your purpose without registration.

In summary, the article gives an introduction to VPN for Safari . A good VPN for safari can protect people’s digital activities from surveillance by internet service providers, governments, and snoopers. All the 6 products have VPN for Safari free in their basic/trial plans. If you want more comprehensive internet protection, upgrading to paid plans is advisable. iTop VPN for Safari is cost-effective, reliable, stable, and fast. We strongly recommend you download it and take it a try!

• Get 1800+ servers to visit sites freely worldwide
• Hide your IP address to protect your privacy
• Automatic kill switch to protect your data
• Keep safe with strong encryption & no log info

How to Switch Netflix Region With Fast Free VPN

7 Top VPN Extensions for Chrome Free: Safe & Fast

8 Best VPNs Free Trial Windows/PC in 2023

Best VPN for Mac 2023 - 4 Fast & Secure Mac VPN

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VPN for Safari: How to Use a VPN Extension in Safari

For Apple users, Safari is the go-to browser for surfing the web. With its fast speeds and reliable security measures, Safari has been a favorite among Mac and iOS users alike. But what happens when you want to access content that’s blocked in certain regions or when your online activity needs to be kept private? That’s where using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes into play. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to use a VPN extension in Safari and why it can be helpful for your online security. We’ll also provide some tips for finding the best VPN for your needs and offer advice on how to get started with setting up a VPN in Safari.

What is a VPN?

When you connect to the internet, your device is assigned an IP address that identifies it to other devices on the network. This can be used to track your online activity and may even lead to data theft or other malicious activity. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, making it much more difficult for anyone to track your online activity or steal your personal information.

A VPN also allows you to bypass internet censorship and access websites that may be blocked in your country. Safari is a web browser from Apple that is included with every Mac and iOS device. While Safari does have some built-in security features, it does not include a VPN by default. However, you can easily add a VPN extension to Safari to protect your privacy and security when browsing the web.

Why Use a VPN with Safari?

If you’re using Safari on your iPhone or desktop, you might want to consider using a VPN. A VPN can help encrypt your traffic and prevent your ISP from tracking your online activity. Additionally, a VPN can bypass geo-restrictions and allow you to access blocked content.

When it comes to choosing a VPN for Safari, there are a few things to consider. First, make sure that the VPN offers strong encryption and security protocols. Second, check to see if the VPN has servers in locations where you want to access content. Finally, read reviews to see what other users have said about the VPN’s performance.

Once you’ve found a VPN that meets your needs, setting it up is easy. For iPhone users, there are a number of great VPN apps available on the App Store. For desktop users, most VPN providers offer browser extensions for Safari. Simply download and install the extension, then log in with your credentials. After that, you’ll be able to browse the web securely and privately with Safari.

How to Use a VPN with Safari

When it comes to online privacy, using a VPN is one of the best ways to protect yourself. A VPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through a server in another location, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.

If you’re looking for a VPN for Safari, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, not all VPN providers offer Safari extensions, so you’ll need to find one that does. Second, make sure the extension is compatible with your version of Safari. And finally, check that the extension doesn’t conflict with any other extensions or plugins you have installed.

Once you’ve found a compatible VPN provider and downloaded the extension, follow these instructions to get started:

1. Open Safari and click on the Safari menu in the top left corner of your screen. Select Preferences from the drop-down menu.

2. Click on the Extensions tab at the top of the Preferences window.

3. Find the VPN extension in the list of extensions and click on its icon to enable it. You may need to enter your administrator password at this point.

4. Click on the Connect button next to the extension’s name to connect to the VPN server. Depending on your provider, you may be able to select a specific server or location at this point. Once you’re connected, you should see a green status indicator next to the extension’s icon.

5. To disconnect from the VPN server, simply

The Best VPNs for Safari

The internet is a vast and wonderful resource, but it’s also home to a lot of potential threats. That’s why it’s important to use a VPN when browsing the web, especially if you’re using Safari. A VPN can help protect your data and keep your browsing activity private.

There are a lot of VPNs on the market, but not all of them are created equal. To help you find the best VPN for Safari, we’ve put together a list of our top picks. All of these VPNs offer great security and privacy features, and they’re compatible with Safari.

1. NordVPN: NordVPN is a great choice for Safari users who want top-notch security and privacy features. It offers military-grade encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection. NordVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, so your browsing activity will always be private.

2. ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is another excellent choice for Safari users who want strong security and privacy protections. It offers robust encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Plus, ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy in place, so your data will always be safe.

3. IPVanish: IPVanish is a great option for Safari users who want good security and privacy without sacrificing speed. It offers fast speeds, 256-bit AES encryption, and an automatic kill switch. IPVanish also doesn’t keep any

With the rapidly changing internet landscape, it’s important to stay up-to-date on how best to protect yourself online. Using a VPN extension in Safari is one of the best ways to ensure your safety and privacy while browsing the web. It adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your data and hiding your IP address from prying eyes. With just a few clicks, you can use a reliable VPN for Safari that will keep your activity safe and secure.

• Free Trials

Best VPN Extensions for Safari

No matter what device you are on, using a VPN with Safari is a good idea. These days, it seems that you can’t turn on the radio, TV, or look at the web without hearing about some sort of data breach. By using a VPN, you will encrypt your web data. Instead of leaving yourself open to cybertheft, it will make it much more difficult for would-be criminals to steal your sensitive information. Even if you encrypt the files on your computer or iPhone, connecting to the internet could leave you vulnerable without one.

Another benefit of using a VPN with Safari is its ability to get around geo-restrictions. If you are not familiar with the term, those are what stop you from seeing content from different parts of the world. They may be levied by the workplace (such as a workplace firewall), a school (or college campus), a media streaming company (like Amazon or Netflix), or even by governments (if the country you are in has censorship rules). When you connect to the server of your choice, you make the blocking software think you are located somewhere else. That means you should be able to get around geo-blocks just as if you were.

Now that you see the importance of VPNs when using Safari, it is sometimes hard to know what the best VPN are or find great options for Mac and iOS users. Windows and Android users have an easier time and more of a selection. There are hundreds of VPN providers that offer products in the community currently. Unfortunately, many of them are either slow or have security issues (such as information leaks). Let’s look at some factors that make for a good VPN service for Safari.

• Number of servers – Take a close look at the total number of VPN servers and where they are located. A VPN provider with only a few servers can make things really slow. That is because the servers can get overloaded quickly
• Encryption protocols – Though many of the providers offer several protocols, the one you will want to look for is OpenVPN. Occasionally, you will still see providers that offer the PPTP protocol. If you see that one, do not use it unless you have no other choice. OpenVPN provides the best mix of speed and security, and experts consider it to be the gold standard. If they offer you the choice between the UDP and TCP version of OpenVPN, the UDP version is faster but not quite as stable.
• Reliability and openness –  You want to make sure that the provider does not have DNS leaks. Otherwise, you defeat the purpose of using a VPN. From the privacy aspect, you want to make sure that the provider is transparent with its policies.
• Fast servers – Last but certainly not least, server speed is important. If you plan on using Safari to stream content, the last thing you want is to have your show or event buffer in the middle.

VPN vs. Proxy – Which is Better for Safari Users?

We’ll keep things very simple. Do you want to protect your privacy or unblock restrictions across all your Mac and iOS apps? If so then you will want to use a VPN. If you’re goal is simply to circumvent geo-restrictions on a website that you plan to view in Safari then proxy or VPN will work. We strongly suggest you use VPN since the encryption will help protect your privacy inside and outside of Safari. If you connect using the ExpressVPN Safari extension it will actually activate their VPN client which secures all your communications.

Safari VPN Extension vs. Plugin

You might hear people make reference to VPN extensions and plugins for Safari. You will also see people refer to VPN and proxy extensions as the same thing. They are not. If you want to encrypt your data and gain access to content in other regions on any device then you will want to use a VPN. ExpressVPN adds another feature called MediaStreamer which acts as a Smart DNS service to unblock geo-restrictions. You simply download their VPN client which includes a Safari VPN extension for the service. You can also make use of MediaStreamer on gaming consoles and media players including Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV devices.

Given those factors we just mentioned, we’ll now take a look at the best VPNs for Safari.

1. Best VPN Extension for Safari: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the only true VPN extensions for the Safari browser. To start, you will want to sign up for ExpressVPN and log into their website. From there you can download the latest ExpressVPN client for Mac which includes the Safari extension.

The ExpressVPN Safari extension allows you to select a server location down to the city as shown in the image above. The client will select the fastest server in your chosen location. We went ahead and selected the top server listed in Safari which was USA – New York. As you can see, the server was fast with a download speed was 59.80 Mbps.

As you see below, we ran a DNS leak test to ensure the browser extension wasn’t leaking our true location and found that ExpressVPN passed without any issues.

While ExpressVPN is sold at a higher price point than the other services in our list, the value is high given the size of their network and service features. You can connect to the service with up to 3 devices simultaneously with a single VPN account from just $6.67 a month with a 30-day money back guarantee.

2. Best VPN for Safari: NordVPN

As with some of the other providers, NordVPN does not have a true extension for Safari. Because of that, you will need to connect to the NordVPN client first. Once connected, you can open Safari and browse like you expect to.

For testing reasons, we connected to servers in Atlanta. Unfortunately, the NordVPN client does not show the city of the server. You have to know the server numbers for the ones you want to connect to. If you want to connect to Atlanta like we are, you will want to connect to one of the following servers: 369-372, 561-568, 665-676, 681-684, 940-955 . The easiest way to select a specific server number is to select the “Servers” tab in the app and then sort the results in alphabetical order. You can then scroll down and select any of the server numbers we have listed above. You can see the load time percentage and the distance to each server. We tested a server in Atlanta and the download speed was 57.49 Mbps.

Of course, we have to perform the leak test on NordVPN as well. In the image you see below, our test found only one server and it was the correct one for our goals. That means you won’t have any leaking issues with this one, either.

Want to access streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world? If so NordVPN is a great choice. They are one of the only VPN services that can still unblock Netflix. You can sign up for unlimited VPN and SmartDNS service from just $3.49 a month with a 30-day guarantee.

3. Best VPN for Safari: PIA

PIA’s Windows client is streamlined. That means you won’t find much to it as far as set up and usage. That said, it is anything but simple. PIA offers different levels of privacy protection depending on your needs. You can control encryption levels and find the right balance between privacy and speed. As you can see, our speed test showed that PIA was running at 62.02 Mbps.

Lastly, we wanted to show you that PIA does well with their leak test, too. The image below shows the one server provided by PIA. As you can see it will definitely keep you safe.

When it comes to their client for Mac, the PIA team has included an Internet kill switch. The kill switch will kill your Internet connection anytime the VPN fails. That can really come in handy for those wanting to ensure anonymity around the world. Private Internet Access offers VPN from just $2.69 a month with a 7-day money back guarantee.

4. Best VPN for Safari: CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost was founded in 2001 by 7 enthusiastic young team members in Bucharest, Romania. Since that time the company has grown into one of the largest VPN services in the world. The team of 50+ members is focused on protecting users privacy. Robert Knapp, co-founder and CEO, continues to lead the team even after they joined the Crossrider group in 2017. Since that time, the CyberGhost network has expanded quite a bit.

CyberGhost CyberGhost offers a nice mix of server locations, strong encryption, and the ability to unblock popular streaming services like Apple TV, Netflix, YouTube Red, and others. Some of the channels even let you unblock geo-restrictions for multiple regions. For example, you can access Amazon Prime video content in the US, Germany, or UK. The Windows client also gives you the option to surf anonymously, protect Wi-Fi, torrent anonymously, unblock basic websites (Google, Facebook Instagram, etc.), and choose a server.

CyberGhost VPN does not offer a true Safari extension. Because of that, you will have to connect first and then you can start using Safari. As a test, we wanted to see how CyberGhost performed when using Safari. We opened the Mac client (it looks very similar to the Windows version) and chose the “Choose My Server” option. Now, you can expand to any country and choose a specific server. The network offers many servers in quite a few different locations. For our speed test, we decided to test a server in Los Angeles. Our download speed was 54.96 Mbps.

Just as before, we wanted to do a leak test with the CyberGhost VPN client for Safari. In the image below, you see the result of that test. The only server they show is the New York server that we connected to.

The CyberGhost VPN client is one of our favorites. It is very easy to use and includes a number of advanced features to help protect your online privacy. They have a development team in Germany that is continually adding features to the client and mobile apps. You can sign up for full access to the CyberGhost network from just $2.75 a month with their 30-day guarantee.

5. Best VPN for Safari: IPVanish

Unfortunately, IPVanish does not have a true browser extension for Safari. In other words, you will have to connect to the program first and then you can start browsing. They have fast servers in a number of locations and you can expect them to be reliable. They also have one of the biggest networks in the US, so that makes them a good choice to use daily.

Along with a large footprint in the USA, you can expect to find servers on every continent other than Antarctica. They also consistently do well on our speed tests in North America and Europe. You will find multiple server locations in countries like the US and UK. Once you choose one, you can select the city and even the server you want to use.

IPVanish hosts many servers all over the world and you can choose to connect to any of them. We suggest selecting one that starts with “a” in the server name. For example atl. a01 .ipvanish.com. In most cases, you will find the “a” servers to be the fastest. We tested an IPVanish server in Atlanta and found the speed to be 63.76 Mbps on our cable Internet connection that maxes out around the same speed.

We also like to test for DNS leaks to test the software. If you see multiple servers or you see one that is not provided by the VPN company, that indicates an issue. As you see in the image below, IPVanish passes the test.

When it comes to value IPVanish is hard to beat. They offer unlimited access to their VPN network and custom software for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Amazon Firestick and more for $8.00 a month or $62.39 a year. That works out to just $5.20 a month on the annual plan. A 7-day money back guarantee covers all new members.

And there you have it. Though there is only one true browser extension for the Safari browser, the options we just mentioned are the best choices to use with it. You are now protecting yourself against DNS leaks and using the best VPN options for Safari.

We rank vendors based on rigorous testing and research, but also take into account your feedback and our commercial agreements with providers. This page contains affiliate links.

5 Best VPNs for Safari 2023: Better Than Browser Extensions

The reviews found on WizCase consist of evaluations conducted by community reviewers. These assessments take into account the reviewers' unbiased and knowledgeable analysis of the products and services being reviewed.

WizCase is a leading cybersecurity review website with a team of experts experienced in testing and evaluating VPNs, antiviruses, password managers, parental controls, and software tools. Our reviews are available in 29 languages, making them accessible to a broad audience since 2018. To further support our readers in their pursuit of online security, we've partnered with Kape Technologies PLC, which owns popular products like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, ZenMate, Private Internet Access, and Intego, all of which may be reviewed on our website.

Wizcase contains reviews that follow the strict reviewing standards, including ethical standards, that we have adopted. Such standards require that each review will take into consideration the independent, honest, and professional examination of the reviewer. That being said, we may earn a commission when a user completes an action using our links, at no additional cost to them. On listicle pages, we rank vendors based on a system that prioritizes the reviewer’s examination of each service, but also considers feedback received from our readers and our commercial agreements with providers.

The reviews published on WizCase are written by community reviewers that examine the products according to our strict reviewing standards. Such standards ensure that each review prioritizes the independent, professional, and honest examination of the reviewer, and takes into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings we publish may also take into consideration the affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website.

As a Mac user, I was disappointed to learn that there are no VPN browser extensions for Safari . Although Safari has some privacy features, like iCloud+ Private Relay that hides your IP address, a VPN offers more advanced protection. VPN apps encrypt your Safari connections, bypass geo-restrictions, and secure all apps on your device.

However, not all VPNs can effectively protect your Macs and iPhones . Even some of the top VPNs on the market leave out features on their Mac and iPhone apps, making them not worth the cost of a subscription.

Of the 35+ VPNs I tested, ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Safari, thanks to its highly secure network and superfast speeds. It also has a 30-day money back guarantee, so you can secure your Safari browser with ExpressVPN risk-free .

Secure Safari with ExpressVPN

• Quick Guide: Best VPNs for Safari in 2023
• ExpressVPN — #1 VPN for Safari with superfast speeds, top-tier security features, and easy-to-use iOS and macOS apps. Get ExpressVPN for Safari risk-free !
• CyberGhost — Optimized servers for torrenting and streaming with Safari, but long-distance connections aren’t as fast as other VPNs.
• Private Internet Access (PIA) — Largest server network among the top Safari VPNs, but it can’t access some streaming sites like BBC iPlayer.
• PrivateVPN — Stealth mode bypasses tough restrictions, even in China, but its small server network can cause user congestion.
• IPVanish — Fast, stable speeds and dedicated SOCKS5 proxy supports P2P traffic, but the Mac VPN interface isn’t beginner-friendly.

Try ExpressVPN for Safari risk-free

• The Best VPNs for Safari (Updated in 2023)

1. ExpressVPN — Best Safari VPN for Security, Speed, and Reliable Connections

Key Features:

• 3,000+ obfuscated servers in 105 countries
• Private DNS servers, AES 256-bit encryption, and a strict no-logs policy ensure a highly secure browsing experience on Safari
• Protect up to 8 devices simultaneously
• Works on macOS, iOS, and iPadOS
• In-depth guides and video tutorials on the website, with 24/7 live chat and email support
• 30-day money back guarantee to try ExpressVPN risk-free

The best VPNs ensure reliable connections with distant servers and during peak hours. I could always connect to an ExpressVPN server in 2-4 seconds regardless of location. My speeds remained consistent when using the VPN for an extended period. 

Additionally, ExpressVPN reliably accessed my favorite streaming sites, so I could enjoy my subscriptions like I was back home. ExpressVPN unblocks:

• Network Lock kill switch : Prevents websites from discovering your original IP address by killing internet traffic if your VPN connection drops. This feature isn’t available on iOS.
• TrustedServer technology : ExpressVPN uses RAM-based servers that can’t store session data for long. It also erases all data on every reboot for added security.
• Verified no-logs policy : Confirms that ExpressVPN doesn’t store any activity or connection logs that third parties can use to track your online activities.
• Threat Manager : DNS-based blocker stops websites and apps from tracking your activities and sharing your information.
• Built-in leak protection : ExpressVPN protects you from IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks to keep your location and search history hidden.

ExpressVPN’s servers gave me the fastest speeds of all the VPNs I tested . My internet speed reduced marginally, with an average drop of 25% — it was still fast enough for browsing, torrenting, and streaming. During my tests, ExpressVPN’s speeds were fast enough to stream Netflix in 4K UHD without lag while browsing anonymously on Safari.

ExpressVPN’s superfast speeds helped me browse and stream on Safari without interruptions

The best VPNs ensure reliable connections — even with distant servers and during peak hours. I could always connect to an ExpressVPN server in 2-4 seconds whether I had picked a nearby option in the UK or faraway Australia. My speeds remained consistent when using the VPN for an extended period . The best part is while traveling, ExpressVPN reliably accessed my favorite streaming sites, so I could enjoy my subscriptions like I was back home. ExpressVPN unblocks:

There’s currently no VPN extension for Safari, but ExpressVPN has user-friendly native apps for Apple devices . When connected, ExpressVPN will protect your Safari browser and device. On Mac, you can pin ExpressVPN to the dock for quick access and even configure it to connect automatically on startup. ExpressVPN also maintains a similar and simple interface across its Mac and iOS apps. These apps support exclusive features — like Threat Manager — that aren’t available on Windows and Android.

You can easily switch or connect to an ExpressVPN server from the menu bar while browsing on Safari

I was disappointed that ExpressVPN’s kill switch isn’t available on iOS. But this is okay, considering the VPN still offers robust security and solid encryption on iOS. It also has super fast speeds and delivers a seamless browsing experience on Safari. An annual ExpressVPN plan costs $6.67 per month — you get a 49% discount, so this plan offers the best value for money.

You can try ExpressVPN for Safari risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the service, ask for a refund. When I tried, I found the process very straightforward. I contacted an agent via the 24/7 live chat, and they processed my request without questions. I had my money back in 5 business days.

ExpressVPN also works with : Windows, Linux, Chromebook, Android, Chrome, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.

2023 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan (you can save up to 49%) + 3 months free! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here .

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers Ensure Fast Connections for Streaming and Torrenting on Safari

• Over 10,218 servers in 100 countries, including streaming-optimized servers
• Military-grade 256-bit encryption, automatic kill switch, and WiFi protection
• Supports 7 device connections at the same time
• Compatible with macOS, iOS, and iPadOS
• 24/7 customer support — live chat, email, setup guides, and detailed FAQs
• Generous 45-day money back guarantee to test CyberGhost

CyberGhost’s optimized servers offer secure connections to stream and download content on Safari . These servers reliably access geo-blocked websites and services — like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. CyberGhost also runs regular tests on them, so you are guaranteed a working connection every time. The optimized servers are split into 2 categories, “For streaming” and “For downloading,” so you can find an appropriate server quickly.

CyberGhost’s “For downloading” servers show the user load on each location so you can pick a fast one

During tests, CyberGhost’s optimized servers improved my speeds for high-quality streams. I had minimal buffering and zero lag when streaming via Safari on my MacBook Air, and I enjoyed many shows in UHD. CyberGhost distributes its streaming servers by region. It has servers that unblock Netflix US, Netflix UK, and many more , so you can find the best one for your needs.

In addition to Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu, CyberGhost also unblocks:

CyberGhost is one of the best VPNs for torrenting on Safari — it has 70+ locations optimized for secure P2P file-sharing . You’ll find these servers, organized by country, in the “For downloading” tab. Here you’ll also see the user load on each location. Low user loads usually mean more stable download speeds and reliable connections. Keep in mind that CyberGhost only supports torrenting on desktop devices, so you’ll have to use a Mac to torrent safely with Safari.

You’ll find advanced security features on CyberGhost. It has:

• Military-grade encryption : Secures your traffic on every connection with 256-bit encryption that’s nearly impossible for hackers to crack.
• Leak protection : Prevents IP address, DNS, and WebRTC leaks so you can stay anonymous online.
• An automatic kill switch : Cuts access to the internet if the VPN connection is interrupted, ensuring your data remains hidden.
• WiFi protection : Protects you from malicious actors by configuring CyberGhost to connect when you use new or unsecured WiFi networks.

CyberGhost works with an impressive range of operating systems , including those that support Safari: iOS and Mac. You can also download its native apps for Android, Windows, Amazon Fire Stick, smart TVs, and routers if you have more devices to protect. There’s even a Smart DNS option for devices that don’t typically support a VPN, like an Xbox or PlayStation.

The problem with CyberGhost is that its long-distance connections aren’t as fast as other VPNs. However, my speed tests proved it’s still fast enough to stream Netflix US without lag and quickly download files on Safari. When testing distant servers, my average speed drop was about 40%, which might seem like a lot, but it didn’t affect my browser’s performance. Plus, you can improve your connection quality by using optimized servers.

CyberGhost is one of the more affordable VPNs, with plans starting at $2.19 per month for a subscription. Its annual plans also offer the longest money back guarantee window on this list. You can try Safari with CyberGhost risk-free for 45 days ! If you change your mind, request a refund. The process is simple — all I did was cancel my subscription via email, and I had my money back in less than a week.

CyberGhost also works with: Windows, Linux, Chromebook, Android, Blackberry, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Xiaomi Mi Box, Google Chromecast, Android TVs, routers, and more.

Try CyberGhost for Safari risk-free

2023 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.19 per month + get extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 83%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here .

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Large Server Network Supports Seamless Safari Browsing

• Massive network of 35,000 servers in 91 countries
• 256-bit encryption, MACE ad blocker, a kill switch, and other customizable security settings
• Secure unlimited devices simultaneously
• Works with macOS, iOS, and iPadOS
• Email support, 24/7 live chat, and online forums on PIA’s website and Reddit
• 30-day money back guarantee to test PIA with confidence

Private Internet Access (PIA) has an extensive server network that delivers smooth connections for Safari. With over 35,000 servers to choose from, I never had to deal with overcrowding when browsing or streaming with PIA . Overcrowded servers reduce your connection quality and cause lag and buffering delays. Since there are so many servers on PIA, you can always switch to a faster option if you notice one server is loaded down.

Check for PIA servers with the lowest latency to get fast streaming speeds

PIA’s latency display helps you find the fastest available server. Every location shows latency, measured in milliseconds (ms). The higher the latency, the slower your internet connection will be, so always choose servers with a lower number . Better yet, PIA can select a server for you automatically. During tests, the auto-selected servers gave me the fastest speeds and lowest latency, so I didn’t have to search through the list myself.

While it’s slower than ExpressVPN, PIA offers high speeds for streaming, torrenting, and gaming on Safari . It even has some streaming-optimized servers which provide faster and more reliable connections to access popular streaming sites. PIA can access:

MACE is an excellent malware and ad blocker for Safari . Safari already blocks cross-site tracking to some extent, but PIA’s MACE ad blocker works system-wide. It acts at the DNS level to stop tracking requests. You can switch MACE on/off from PIA’s privacy settings. You’ll enjoy browsing the web without annoying pop-up ads, banners, and auto-play videos. MACE is available on Macs but not iOS devices.

In addition to privacy features, PIA offers customizable security settings. They include:

• Customizable encryption : Lets you choose between AES 128-bit or 256-bit encryption levels to secure your data from hackers. 128-bit can improve poor VPN connections.
• DNS servers : PIA runs its DNS servers to prevent leaks that could reveal your search requests to third parties. It also lets you set up a custom DNS if you know how.
• Kill switch : Blocks internet traffic to prevent leaks if your connection is unstable.
• Split tunneling : Lets you choose which apps and sites pass through the VPN tunnel and which can bypass it. This feature doesn’t work on macOS 12 (Monterey).

A minor con is that PIA can’t unblock BBC iPlayer, even if you use its UK streaming server. Still, it reliably accesses Netflix US, Hulu, and other popular streaming platforms. Considering it costs as low as $2.19 per month for a subscription, PIA is a budget-friendly VPN that offers many advanced features. It even has one of the best month-to-month VPN plans .

The best way to decide if PIA is good for you is to try it out yourself . Its plans come with a 30-day money back guarantee, so you can get PIA for Safari without risk . If you’re not satisfied, just ask for a refund. When I tested the process, a live chat agent processed my request immediately, and I had my money back in 7 days.

PIA also works with: Windows, Linux, Android, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.

 Try PIA for Safari risk-free

2023 Update ! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.19 per month + get extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 82%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here !

4. PrivateVPN — Stealth Mode Bypasses Geoblocks and Firewalls Worldwide

• Solid network of 200+ HQN servers in 63 countries
• Stealth VPN, IP leak protection, military-grade encryption, kill switch
• Use PrivateVPN on up to 10 devices simultaneously
• 24/7 live chat support with in-house software experts and remote assistance
• 30-day money back guarantee

PrivateVPN is one of the best VPNs for accessing restricted sites on Safari, thanks to its obfuscation feature . Stealth mode masks your VPN connection as regular traffic when turned on to bypass network restrictions. This way, you can access sites that your office or school’s firewall blocks. PrivateVPN is also one of the few VPNs that work in countries with internet censorship, like China, Russia, and the UAE.

Impressively, PrivateVPN’s otherwise small server network was consistently fast . It uses High Quality Network (HQN) servers, which maintain constant speeds regardless of the connection distance. I could stream content without lag and browse hitch-free regardless of how close or far my server connection was.

PrivateVPN has a solid server network that reliably unblocks most streaming platforms

In addition to its regular servers, PrivateVPN also offers Dedicated IPs in 16 locations . With these servers, PrivateVPN assigns you a dynamic IP address only you can use. It makes it easier for you to access geo-restricted streaming sites like Netflix. You’re also harder to track online since you get a new IP address every time you connect to a server.

PrivateVPN has reliable servers, and it also protects you online with the following security features:

• Owns and operates all its servers : So, it can guarantee server quality is in line with company policies.
• Leak protection : Stops IPv6 leaks and standard IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, so your data remains private and your online activities anonymous.
• Zero-log policy : PrivateVPN won’t collect or store your data while connected to its servers, but there’s been no third-party audit.
• Multiple VPN protocols : PrivateVPN supports OpenVPN, L2TP, and IKEv2 protocols on Apple devices.

For beginners, PrivateVPN has a simple interface . When you launch the app, you’re met with a basic screen with just enough buttons to help you set up a connection. You can then switch to Advanced View or Settings to configure your security settings.

PrivateVPN may have the smallest server network on this list, but it does incredibly well at unblocking popular streaming sites. PrivateVPN accesses:

I noticed that I occasionally had to deal with user congestion when connected to PrivateVPN’s network. However, this was rare, and I could always switch servers when it happened. But, if it’s a dealbreaker for you, ExpressVPN’s extensive server network offers many reliable server locations , so you never have to deal with congestion.

For 30 days, you can protect your Safari browser with PrivateVPN risk-free. It has long-term subscriptions for as low as $2.00/month, all backed by a 30-day money back guarantee. If you decide that PrivateVPN isn’t right for you, you can ask for a refund. When I reached out via email, I only had to mention why I was canceling my account. Afterward, the agent approved my request, and I had my money back in 5 business days.

PrivateVPN also works with: Windows, Linux, Android, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.

Try PrivateVPN for Safari risk-free

5. IPVanish — Secures Safari on All Your Apple Devices at the Same Time

• 2,200+ servers in 75 countries
• AES 256 encryption, no-log policy, SOCKS5 web proxy, and multiple VPN protocols
• Allows unlimited device connections
• 24/7 live chat, email, online knowledge base, and phone support in 6 countries

IPVanish doesn’t limit device connections, letting you secure unlimited devices simultaneously . It also helps you browse, game, and stream on multiple devices without losing connection quality. I tested this by using IPVanish on all 4 of my Apple products, a Windows laptop, and 2 Android phones. I didn’t notice a significant speed drop and could stream and torrent without interruptions. However, I couldn’t stream in UHD on all devices.

IPVanish’s free SOCKS5 proxy gives high speeds for torrenting and can help you unblock more streaming sites. It won’t encrypt your traffic but will effectively mask your IP address so you can bypass geoblocks. Also, if you have slow internet speeds, SOCKS5 can improve your connection since it doesn’t use encryption.

IPVanish lets you filter servers by ping and load

IPVanish has multiple streaming protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard . I prefer WireGuard because it balances security with great speeds. WireGuard also works well on Macs and iPhones, ensuring a seamless Safari browsing experience.

To safeguard all your devices, IPVanish offers the following premium security features:

• An audited zero logs policy : IPVanish doesn’t log your online activities and personal data on its servers. Leviathan has independently audited its privacy policy.
• IP leak protection : Prevents IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, so your browsing information stays hidden from hackers and trackers.
• AES 256-bit encryption : Military-grade encryption shields your information from unauthorized third parties.
• A kill switch : When you use the OpenVPN protocol, IPVanish protects your data by blocking web traffic if your VPN connection drops. Not available on iOS.

On IPVanish, you’ll find highly detailed connection reports , better than any other Safari VPN provides. In the “Quick Connect” tab, a chart shows your download and upload speeds, current VPN protocol, connection time, and new IP address. The information here will be helpful when you want to troubleshoot connection issues.

IPVanish is a good streaming VPN. It reliably unblocks:

Although it displays useful server information and configuration options, IPVanish’s interface can be a lot to take in at first. In particular, I didn’t find its Mac app to be beginner-friendly . However, if you’re an experienced VPN user, you’ll enjoy the level of control you get with IPVanish.

IPVanish’s plans start from $2.49/month. There’s also a 30-day money back guarantee to try IPVanish for Safari risk-free . If you change your mind, you can get a refund by logging in to your account dashboard and canceling your subscription within 30 days. I found the process very fast and got my money back within 24 hours.

IPVanish also works with: Windows, Linux, Chromebook, Android, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Xbox, Firefox, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, Google Chromecast, Android TVs, routers, and more.

Try IPVanish for Safari risk-free

Quick Comparison Table: 2023’s Best VPNs for Safari

• How I Tested and Ranked the Best Safari VPNs

I tested the top VPN services in 2023 and ranked the best VPNs for Safari using the following criteria:

• Easy-to-use iOS and Mac apps — The VPNs on this list have intuitive apps for Mac and iOS that will secure the Safari browser and other apps on your device.
• Global network of servers — An ideal VPN for Safari should have an extensive network of servers so you can always find a fast option close to your physical location. Also, the more countries a VPN has servers in, the more geoblocks it’ll be able to bypass.
• Fast speeds — All VPNs slow your speeds due to encryption, but some cause only a slight drop. I shortlisted the fastest VPNs I tested so you can enjoy secure and fast browsing. They’ll also help you stream your favorite shows from anywhere without buffering or lag.
• Works with streaming platforms — The VPNs listed above are some of the few providers that reliably work with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and other popular streaming platforms.
• Security and privacy — Each VPN protects Safari with AES 256-bit encryption, multiple VPN protocols, a kill switch, IP leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy.
• Value for money — These VPNs offer robust security features for Safari with reasonable monthly and long-term subscription plans. They also offer money back guarantees so you can test them out without risk.
• Customer support — If an issue comes up, these top VPNs provide 24/7 customer support via live chat and email. They also have extensive online guides, and some VPNs offer phone support.
• VPN Browser Extensions, Apps, or Private Relay for Safari: Which Is Better?

A VPN extension is a lightweight plugin used to create a secure VPN connection in a browser. Presently, there are no free or paid VPN browser extensions for Safari . Since the launch of Safari 12, Mac users can only install Safari extensions available in the App Store. You won’t find any VPN extensions there because they require deep system privileges that Apple won’t allow.

In any case, you’re better off using a VPN app rather than a browser extension . For one thing, VPN extensions only encrypt browser traffic, exposing other internet activities to your ISP and third parties. Secondly, browser extensions offer a fraction of VPN features. For example, VPN extensions aren’t equipped with kill switches and don’t protect all DNS requests from leaks. In fact, most VPN browser extensions are only HTTPS proxies.

A VPN app is more reliable for complete protection and privacy . Premium VPNs will secure your internet connections with AES 256-bit encryption, hide your IP address, prevent DNS and IP leaks, and bypass tough geoblocks. They also provide native apps for Mac, iOS, and more. Plus, they allow an average of 5 simultaneous device connections so you can protect your phones, iPads, and PCs.

Apple’s recent addition of a privacy feature (iCloud+ Private Relay) to Safari is impressive, but it cannot replace a VPN . Private Relay works by swapping your real IP address with a temporary one and encrypting your DNS requests. This way, it stops anyone from monitoring your Safari browsing activities.

The problem is Private Relay only works in Safari, leaving the rest of your internet traffic vulnerable to malicious third parties. It can’t stop IP leaks or obfuscate your internet traffic — so it won’t bypass network firewalls. Also, Private Relay only assigns an IP address within your location, meaning it can’t access your local Netflix library when you travel abroad.

You should see iCloud+ Private Relay as a free proxy (that only works in Safari) at best. It doesn’t offer the advanced protection and robust features of a premium VPN. And if you’re trying to choose between a VPN app and a VPN browser extension, it is always better to use an app.

• Setup Guide: How to Install a VPN for Safari

Only Apple devices support the Safari browser, which is why all the VPNs on this list have native apps for macOS and iOS. Here are quick installation guides to get you started.

• Download and install a VPN for Mac . ExpressVPN offers robust security for Mac , an easy-to-use app, and superfast speeds on its global network.
• Sign in and connect to a VPN server . Our recommended Safari VPNs offer multiple server locations but pick a nearby server for faster speeds.
• Enjoy online anonymity and freedom on Safari ! Once connected, you can browse, stream, game, and explore the internet safely on Safari.

iOS/iPadOS (iPhone and iPad)

• Install a VPN from the App store . ExpressVPN has an intuitive iOS app that works seamlessly on iPhones and iPads.
• Launch and configure the app . Log in with your username and password, or subscribe from within the app. You’ll get a prompt to enter your device password so the VPN can add configurations.
• Connect to a VPN server and start browsing on Safari . I recommend a nearby server as they offer the best speeds.
• FAQs: VPNs and Safari

What is the best VPN for Safari?

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Safari . It provides robust security features, superfast speeds, and a reliable server network, all accessible within easy-to-use native apps for Mac, iOS, and iPadOS devices. I tested ExpressVPN’s local and distant servers, and I could always browse and stream on Safari smoothly.

ExpressVPN supports all torrenting clients so that you can torrent safely. It has an audited no-log policy and runs its private DNS on all servers , so your requests never leak. Its advanced obfuscation technology will also help you access the open web through Safari in countries with internet censorship, like China.

Does Safari have a built-in VPN?

No, Safari doesn’t have a built-in VPN . However, iCloud+ subscribers can use Private Relay, a two-way proxy service, to secure internet traffic on Safari. Private Relay can’t replace a VPN, though. So you’ll still need a premium VPN service if you want military-grade encryption, DNS leak protection, and geoblocking capabilities.

Should I use a VPN browser extension or an app?

It’s always better to use VPN apps to secure your Apple device . Unlike apps, VPN browser extensions only protect traffic sent to and from the browser, not your entire device. Meanwhile, VPN apps send all incoming and outgoing data through a secure VPN tunnel.

Also, VPN extensions lack extensive features like the optimized servers and kill switches you’ll find in VPN apps. Still, if you’re only trying to browse securely on public WiFi, a VPN browser extension should do the trick.

Why isn’t Safari working with my VPN?

All the premium VPNs on this list work well with Safari, so you should consider switching to one of these providers. However, here are some quick fixes you can try:

• Update your VPN software
• Clear your browser’s cache
• Contact your VPN’s support if nothing else works

What VPN does Apple recommend for Safari?

Apple doesn’t recommend any particular VPN for Safari. But you’ll find some, including our top VPNs for Safari , in its App Store. You can easily download a VPN from the store, sign up, and connect to a secure server on your Mac or iOS device.

What’s the most secure VPN for Mac?

All the VPNs highlighted on this page have advanced features, but ExpressVPN is the most secure VPN for Mac . Unlike most VPNs, ExpressVPN stands out because its macOS app has the same security features as the Windows app to ensure all your devices are fully protected.

It offers the standard AES 256-bit encryption, multiple VPN protocols, and an automatic kill switch. Additionally, ExpressVPN has its own DNS servers to prevent leaks and uses obfuscation to help you bypass firewalls anywhere.

ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy, verified by multiple independent security audits . Its TrustedServer technology counters hackers by using a RAM-only server infrastructure that doesn’t store user data. Plus, it has Threat Manager, a feature that blocks trackers and malicious websites to protect you and your Mac.

Are there VPN extensions for Safari?

No, there are no VPN browser extensions for Safari . To secure your browser, you need a VPN that will protect Safari and your whole device. A premium VPN will secure your traffic and help you safely browse, stream, and torrent online.

While it doesn’t have an extension, ExpressVPN lets you control your VPN connection from a drop-down on your Mac menu bar. It feels like a VPN browser extension since you can connect, disconnect, and change servers while browsing Safari.

Can a VPN hide my Safari browser history?

When connected, a VPN will encrypt your internet traffic so third parties can’t monitor your online activities. But it can’t stop your Safari browser history from being stored on your device. To prevent this, you can browse using Safari’s Private Browsing mode or clear your search history.

Is browsing in Safari’s private mode the same as using a VPN?

Safari’s Private Browsing mode is not the same as using a VPN . VPNs hide your location and create a secure connection between your device and the websites you visit . Meanwhile, Private mode deletes cookies and your search history from your device when you close the browser window. Private mode hides your activities from others using the browser. But it can’t stop your ISP or network admin from seeing what you’ve been doing online.

Will free VPNs work with Safari?

Yes, but none will give you the robust privacy and security features that premium VPNs for Safari offer . Most free VPNs make money by selling your data to advertisers. Worse yet, some free VPNs can infect your Apple devices with malware.

Even the best free VPNs will limit your server options, download speeds, and bandwidth. So while they might be tempting, free VPNs aren’t worth your time. The premium VPNs here have great deals that can save you a lot of money. Plus, you’ll get unlimited bandwidth and speedy servers that free VPNs can’t match.

• Stay Safe Online With a Premium VPN for Safari

There’s no VPN extension for Safari, and despite Safari’s impressive privacy updates, it can’t completely protect you online. The best way to reduce security risks to your browser and Apple devices is with a quality VPN app . I tested multiple VPNs for advanced encryption, speeds, unblocking capabilities, and other features. I found that ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Safari.

I was impressed by ExpressVPN’s superfast speeds, intuitive apps, and reliable connections worldwide . You can try ExpressVPN for Safari yourself risk-free  as it’s backed by a 30-day money back guarantee. If you change your mind, ask for a full refund. I tested the policy via the 24/7 live chat, and an agent processed my request without questions. I had my money back within a week.

Summary — Best VPNs for Safari in 2023

• Quick Comparison Table: 2023’s Best VPNs for Safari

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VPN for Safari: How to Use a VPN Extension in Safari

For Apple users, Safari is the go-to browser for surfing the web. With its fast speeds and reliable security measures, Safari has been a favorite among Mac and iOS users alike. But what happens when you want to access content that’s blocked in certain regions or when your online activity needs to be kept private? That’s where using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes into play. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to use a VPN extension in Safari and why it can be helpful for your online security. We’ll also provide some tips for finding the best VPN for your needs and offer advice on how to get started with setting up a VPN in Safari.

What is a VPN?

When you connect to the internet, your device is assigned an IP address that identifies it to other devices on the network. This can be used to track your online activity and may even lead to data theft or other malicious activity. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, making it much more difficult for anyone to track your online activity or steal your personal information.

A VPN also allows you to bypass internet censorship and access websites that may be blocked in your country. Safari is a web browser from Apple that is included with every Mac and iOS device. While Safari does have some built-in security features, it does not include a VPN by default. However, you can easily add a VPN extension to Safari to protect your privacy and security when browsing the web.

Why Use a VPN with Safari?

If you’re using Safari on your iPhone or desktop, you might want to consider using a VPN. A VPN can help encrypt your traffic and prevent your ISP from tracking your online activity. Additionally, a VPN can bypass geo-restrictions and allow you to access blocked content.

When it comes to choosing a VPN for Safari, there are a few things to consider. First, make sure that the VPN offers strong encryption and security protocols. Second, check to see if the VPN has servers in locations where you want to access content. Finally, read reviews to see what other users have said about the VPN’s performance.

Once you’ve found a VPN that meets your needs, setting it up is easy. For iPhone users, there are a number of great VPN apps available on the App Store. For desktop users, most VPN providers offer browser extensions for Safari. Simply download and install the extension, then log in with your credentials. After that, you’ll be able to browse the web securely and privately with Safari.

How to Use a VPN with Safari

When it comes to online privacy, using a VPN is one of the best ways to protect yourself. A VPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through a server in another location, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.

If you’re looking for a VPN for Safari, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, not all VPN providers offer Safari extensions, so you’ll need to find one that does. Second, make sure the extension is compatible with your version of Safari. And finally, check that the extension doesn’t conflict with any other extensions or plugins you have installed.

Once you’ve found a compatible VPN provider and downloaded the extension, follow these instructions to get started:

1. Open Safari and click on the Safari menu in the top left corner of your screen. Select Preferences from the drop-down menu.

2. Click on the Extensions tab at the top of the Preferences window.

3. Find the VPN extension in the list of extensions and click on its icon to enable it. You may need to enter your administrator password at this point.

4. Click on the Connect button next to the extension’s name to connect to the VPN server. Depending on your provider, you may be able to select a specific server or location at this point. Once you’re connected, you should see a green status indicator next to the extension’s icon.

5. To disconnect from the VPN server, simply

The Best VPNs for Safari

The internet is a vast and wonderful resource, but it’s also home to a lot of potential threats. That’s why it’s important to use a VPN when browsing the web, especially if you’re using Safari. A VPN can help protect your data and keep your browsing activity private.

There are a lot of VPNs on the market, but not all of them are created equal. To help you find the best VPN for Safari, we’ve put together a list of our top picks. All of these VPNs offer great security and privacy features, and they’re compatible with Safari.

1. NordVPN: NordVPN is a great choice for Safari users who want top-notch security and privacy features. It offers military-grade encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection. NordVPN also has a strict no-logs policy, so your browsing activity will always be private.

2. ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is another excellent choice for Safari users who want strong security and privacy protections. It offers robust encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Plus, ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy in place, so your data will always be safe.

3. IPVanish: IPVanish is a great option for Safari users who want good security and privacy without sacrificing speed. It offers fast speeds, 256-bit AES encryption, and an automatic kill switch. IPVanish also doesn’t keep any

With the rapidly changing internet landscape, it’s important to stay up-to-date on how best to protect yourself online. Using a VPN extension in Safari is one of the best ways to ensure your safety and privacy while browsing the web. It adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your data and hiding your IP address from prying eyes. With just a few clicks, you can use a reliable VPN for Safari that will keep your activity safe and secure.

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Is There a VPN for Safari, And What to Look For in One? 

If you’re looking for a VPN extension for Safari browser, technically, it doesn’t exist. But that doesn’t mean you can’t protect your Safari traffic in any other way. And no, it’s not with the Private Relay from Apple (more on that later) — we have just the solution that’ll cover all traffic security needs and beyond.

• Privacy on any Wi-Fi
• No data and speed caps
• One account, 10 devices
• 2 500+ servers in 89 locations

Does Safari have a VPN?

No , while there used to be a VPN extension for Safari, that’s no longer the case. And even if there was one, it wouldn’t stand close to a full VPN app. VPN browser extensions only touch upon the data within the browser, leaving the rest of your Internet traffic as it is — vulnerable to threats and facing online blocks.

Pro tip: Learn more about how VPN app vs VPN browser extension stack against one another. 

What’s the best VPN for Safari?

If you’re looking for a Safari VPN alternative, your best bet is the VPN for macOS/iOS — a dedicated VPN app for the Apple device that’ll affect all the data your iPhone or Mac sends and receives, not just Safari-related traffic.  

And if you need a top-rated VPN for Safari, consider VeePN. It’s an Apple-approved VPN app, which you can download on your iPhone and Mac (and other operating systems, for that matter). 

Let’s learn more about what perks this VPN provides and what makes a good VPN for Safari overall.  

What to look for in a Safari VPN? 

To choose the right VPN for Safari — that is, a VPN for your iOS or macOS device — pay attention to the following factors:

• Compatibility with iOS/macOS. Well, obviously , you need a VPN app you can download on your Apple device.  
• VPN encryption. Look for a Safari VPN that offers strong AES-256 encryption to protect your online activities and keep your data secure from potential threats.
• Available locations. Consider the VPN’s server locations to make sure they cover the regions you need. This will let you access content from different countries or bypass Internet restrictions .
• VPN protocols . Check if the VPN supports reliable protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard, which provide a secure and stable connection for your browsing needs.
• Pricing . Compare pricing plans to find a VPN for Safari that fits your budget while still offering the features and performance you require.
• Ad blocker (preferred). If you prefer an ad-free browsing experience, choose a Safari VPN that includes an ad-blocking feature to improve your online privacy.

With VeePN checking all of the boxes above, give it a try as your Safari VPN. Get the VeePN app to protect your privacy and run it on your iPhone and/or Mac. Make your browsing private and avoid online blocks with a strong encryption and VeePN’s servers in 89 locations across the globe.  

Let’s find out how you can use our VPN for Safari on your device.  

How to use a VPN in Safari?

On to the details — here’s how to install a VPN on Safari on your iOS or Mac device. 

How to get a VPN for Safari on Mac

• Go for one of the VeePN plans — all risk-free backed by a money-back guarantee.  
• Download a VPN for Mac . 
• Install the app on your device and create an account. 
• If you just want to hide your IP address , leave Optimal Location on. If you want to change your virtual location, select a specific country to connect to. 

• Click Connect to turn on your VPN. 

• With a VPN for Safari on your Mac up and running now, open the Safari browser and surf the web protected! 

How to get a VPN for Safari on iOS

Setup instructions are similar here. 

• Sign up for VeePN. 
• Download our VPN for Safari on your iPhone.
• Install the app and create an account. 
• If you just want to protect your browsing in Safari, leave Optimal Location on. If you want to change your virtual location, select a specific country to connect to. 

• Tap Connect on the main screen to turn on the Safari VPN. 

And just like that — open the Safari browser with a strong online protection and no content blocks in your way. 

iCloud Private Relay vs VPN: Same or not? 

Last but not least, if you want your VPN extension for Safari to be an Apple product, the closest thing to it is iCloud Private Relay . To use it, you have to be an iCloud+ subscriber. 

Private Relay vs VPN compared

Is Private Relay a VPN ? No. Does it create a more private environment for browsing on Safari? Yes. 

Here’s how the two differ. 

1. Encryption

• VPN : Encrypts all data sent and received through its app, even on public networks.
• Private Relay : Encrypts only Safari, DNS-related traffic, and a small subset of app traffic.

2. Access to global content and overcoming restrictions

• VPN : Enables access to global content, useful for streaming home country’s entertainment catalog while abroad and bypassing censorship.
• Private Relay: Complies with geo-blocking, doesn’t mask general region or city, limiting access to content and overcoming restrictions.

3. IP address and privacy protection:

• VPN : Masks your IP address, prevents tracking and profiling by third parties like advertisers.
• Private Relay: Hides IP address only in Safari, not in other browsers or apps, providing limited privacy protection.

4. Online security:

• VPN : Offers strong encryption and security features for a better online security, like Kill Switch and DNS leak protection. 
• Private Relay: Provides limited security features, focusing primarily on privacy in Safari browser only.

To sum it up, let’s recap when it’s better to choose either solution. 

So, if you’re already an iCloud+ subscriber, you can consider Private Relay as a free but limited alternative to VPN extension for Safari. However, a premium VPN offers more advantages and perks.

How to turn on/off iCloud Private Relay

If you think that Apple Private Relay will (or won’t) get the job done, here’s how to enable and disable it: 

• Go to Settings and tap your Apple ID name at the top > iCloud .

• Choose Private Relay and flip the toggle on or off. 

Note : On macOS, the feature is under Apple ID and iCloud in System Preferences.

With iCloud Private Relay on, you can also go to IP Address Location to decide which location info to share:

• You can report your general location (which city you’re closest to, more or less). This way, local data like the weather forecast will show up correctly.
• You can use a broader location for your IP address and only report your country and time zone to the websites that request it.

Go for a top VPN for Safari — try VeePN 

While no VPN providers offer a separate VPN extension for Safari, there is a way to stay safe while browsing. Just get VeePN, a VPN solution compatible with both iOS and macOS . Protect your data, access needed content, and get rid of annoying ads just for a few bucks a month ( spoiler alert — some plans can get you up to 85% off and are all backed up by a money-back guarantee).  

VeePN is a way to go for improving your online security (find our other Internet safety tips here ). So how about boosting yours?

FAQ: VPN for Safari

While there’s no official VPN extension for Safari , you can protect your browsing by downloading a dedicated VPN app for your iPhone or Mac. 

• Sign up for VeePN.
• Get the app for your iPhone or Mac. 
• Install the app and create an account. 
• If you just want to protecting your browsing in Safari, leave Optimal Location on. If you want to change your virtual location, select a specific country to connect to.
• Turn on a VPN. 
• Open Safari and enjoy safe and limitless browsing.

Yes, you just need a VPN app that works on Apple operating system . VeePN is one such app you can download on your iPhone and Mac and get your Safari VPN up and running in no time. Learn more in this article. 

Any VPN for iPhone/Mac . Download VeePN and run it on your device. VeePN’s security features make it a great VPN for Safari . For example, the Kill Switch will prevent data leaks if your VPN connection drops, while VeePN NetGuard will block intrusive pop-up ads, trackers, and malicious websites on the spot.

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Best free VPNs for Mac | Stay private online for free

With so many VPN services on the market, there's never been a better time for online privacy – but censorship, government surveillance, and cybercriminals have also grown with the times. In order to stay secure online and gain watertight privacy, we recommend you use a VPN for Mac .

VPN services can often be expensive, which can put some people off. We believe everyone should have the right to protect their privacy, so we have listed the best free VPNs for Mac users. Free VPN services have some limitations compared to paid services, which we will also explain in this article.

What is the best free VPN for Mac?

We have listed the best free VPNs for Mac below. If you want to know more about why we've chosen each provider, please keep scrolling to see our in-depth analysis.

These free services will provide users with strong encryption and will keep you safe and secure online, however, they aren't great for streaming. Unfortunately, these services have the following limitations:

• Fewer server locations to connect to.
• Usage limits/download limitations.
• Bandwidth restrictions (slow connection speeds).
• Inability to unblock Netflix and access other such services – check out our Netflix VPN guide for a list of services that work with Netflix.

Best free VPNs for Mac – In-depth analysis

We take a closer look at our recommended free VPNs for Mac below. For more information on any of the listed providers, be sure to click through and check out our in-depth VPN reviews .

1. Hotspot Shield Editor's Choice | November 2023

Hotspot Shield is the best free VPN for Mac. It gives users plenty of options with unlimited data allowance and superb privacy features.

• 36 months: $2.99/mth 76% OFF
• 12 months: $7.99/mth 38% OFF
• 1 month: $12.99/mth
• Free: $0/mth
• Great apps for Mac, Android, iOS, and Windows
• Browser extensions and router and smartTV support
• Proprietary Hydra protocol, very fast and secure
• Good speeds for more data-intensive tasks
• No data caps
• Based in the US
• No Linux support with free plan
• Some invasive policies even on elite

Available on

• Amazon Prime
• www.hotspotshield.com

AirVPN Demo

Hotspot Shield is a US-based free VPN that provides unlimited service, without data caps. This is very generous and quite rare for free VPN providers! Admittedly, free users may only connect to a server in the US, but this will suit many people because it will let them safely access the most in-demand content.

Impressive speeds

Hotspot Shield provides fast speeds, making it a good choice for your data-heavy tasks. It comes with its own proprietary Hydra protocol, which ensures impressive speeds, without compromising your security. You get to access all popular social media platforms (even from China), such as Instagram and Twitter, and streaming services like YouTube , Netflix, Amazon Prime , and Twitch.

Bear in mind that the free plan offers only one server location, so if you wish to access a greater variety of international content, consider upgrading to Premium. The upgrade will give you access to all of its 115 locations and you'll be able to use the servers that are specially optimized for streaming.

Free but secure

Hotspot Shield operates on a "freemium" business model, so unlike most other free VPNs, it's transparent where its earnings are coming from. This provider uses the money from its paid subscriptions to offset the costs of the free ones. So you don't have to worry that by using its free service, you'll get involved in any kind of illegal data trade or such. You will, however, be seeing some ads with the free plan, which aren't there with the Premium one.

We love Hotspot Shield because it has helped millions of users worldwide during times of political upheaval – allowing them to access blocked social media and news in their time of need.

Beginner-friendly

Hotspot Shield is a hustle-free VPN, that's perfectly suitable for VPN newbies. Its download and setup will only take a few minutes of your time, and then you're ready to protect your browsing and other activities. It's worth mentioning as well that its Premium plan comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, so if you ever decide to upgrade, you can do it without risking your cash.

Hide.me is the fastest free Mac VPN. It's super-fast, so you can unblock content in complete privacy without paying a dime. It comes with up to 10 GB a month and has fantastic Mac software.

• 24 months + 2 months FREE: $3.84/mth 62% OFF
• 12 months: $6.66/mth 34% OFF
• 1 month: $9.95/mth
• Up to eight server locations with the free plan
• Apps for all popular platforms
• Limited features with free plan
• Only 10GB a month for free
• Only one device connection with the free plan
• www.hide.me

Hide.me Demo

Hide.me is a Malaysian VPN that provides an extremely generous free plan that's great for Mac users. The VPN is secure thanks to strong OpenVPN encryption and has a zero-logs policy to ensure your web browsing habits are always private. That means you can trust this VPN to provide data privacy and security for your MacBook both at home and on public WiFi.

Servers in key locations

For free, users get access to five server locations (Netherlands, Germany, the US West, the US East, and Canada). This is more than most other VPN providers on this list, which means less congestion and better speeds. Not to mention, these are all great server spots, so you'll be able to access a plethora of international content. 

However, if you're looking for a server in Australia – or another country that's not on this list, you will need to upgrade to a paid plan or try a different free VPN for Mac. On the plus side, Hide.me lets you download 10 GB of data each month at speeds of up to 80 Mbps – which makes this free VPN for macOS extremely versatile!

Highly customizable

Hide. me is also the most feature-rich VPN on this list. Unfortunately, most of its premium features don't become available to you unless you subscribe to a paid service, however, you get the same level of privacy and security as with the Premium plan. Besides, regardless of which plan you choose, Hide.me won't log any of your online activities thanks to its strict privacy policy.

Some of the advanced features which hide me offers include:

• Multihop – you get directed through multiple server locations with a single online activity, for even more privacy.
• Split tunneling – you can select which of your favorite apps will go through a VPN tunnel, and which you'll use directly.
• Stealth Guard – works as a kill-switch. It stops all your online activities in case your VPN drops, and in that way protects you from data leaks.
• WireGuard protocol – the latest and greatest in the industry, ensures better speeds without compromising your security.
• Dynamic Port Forwarding – ideal for ardent torrenters. Expands your torrenting options.

Independently audited

Not many free VPNs, or even paid ones, boast audited services – and even fewer of them have been independently audited. Hide.me, on the other hand, was among the first VPNs to get independently audited in 2015. This shows a great deal of transparency and dedication, and it's exactly the attitude we like to see in a VPN provider.

Also, unlike most free VPNs, Hide.me provides 24/7 free customer support to ALL its customers. This is a great benefit, especially for VPN newbies. You get to explore all the advantages of this VPN with peace of mind, and you'll always have somebody to contact in case you encounter a bump on the road. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included too, for those willing to try Premium, without the risk of losing money.

3. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN offers an unlimited free VPN plan and great MacOS software, with access to servers in The Netherlands, Japan, and USA.

• 24 months: $4.99/mth 51% OFF
• 12 months: $5.99/mth 41% OFF
• 1 month: $9.99/mth
• Free trial: $0/mth
• Accepts payment in Bitcoin and cash
• DNS leak protection and a kill-switch
• Free plan is limited to three servers
• No kill switches for macOS or iOS
• Servres' congestion sometimes lead to slowing down

Proton Demo

ProtonVPN is an excellent free VPN by the developers of Proton Mail. This makes it a highly trusted service in terms of privacy. It is a zero-logs service based in Switzerland that lets Mac users enjoy VPN usage on an unlimited basis.

Truly unlimited free VPN

ProtonVPN is the only VPN on this list, aside from Hotspot Shield, that doesn't measure or limit your data transfers or your speeds. That's pretty mind-blowing because it means you can use it all day every day, without worrying about when your free VPN allowance will get used up.

Free users get access to servers in the Netherlands, Japan, and the USA, which is less than you get with Hide.me but it still gives you plenty of options for streaming and browsing. However, please bear in mind that speeds will get deteriorated at peak hours to prevent congestion. That said, I found it to provide pretty good speeds for a free VPN.

Layered security

ProtonVPN is another security-driven software product by famous Proton Mail developers. The company is Swiss-based, so you can rest assured your privacy is well taken care of. And, for those who are still not convinced, ProtonVPN applies a strict no-logs policy, which is another great layer of security.

On top of that, this VPN provides strong OpenVPN encryption to ensure your data is always safe. A great free VPN that is well worth trying, but is missing some of the advanced features you get with the premium version. The good news, though, is that you can always easily upgrade to a premium plan – and with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Exceptional cross-platform compatibility

With ProtonVPN you get free apps for all your devices, including GUI apps for Linux and Chromebook. All its apps are slick, modern, and ad-free, so you can get the best out of ProtonVPN service, hustle-free. But why trust us, when you can try it and use it for free?

4. AtlasVPN

AtlasVPN is an all-round free VPN for Mac, with great customization on offer and impressive speeds. Premium plan includes additional services like ads and malware protection.

• 24 months: $2.05/mth 82% OFF
• 12 months: $3.29/mth 71% OFF
• 1 month: $10.99/mth
• Impressive speeds (even with the free plan)
• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• A highly customizable VPN service
• Free plan limited to 5,000 MB off data traffic per month
• Fewer server locations than VPNs above
• No Linux support

AtlasVPN Demo

AtlasVPN is another stellar free VPN choice for Mac. It comes with excellent apps for this and all the other popular platforms, including iOS, Windows, Android, Mac TV, and Amazon Fire TV. 

No speed limitations

You get unlimited simultaneous connections even with the free version, which means online protection for your entire household. However, as usual, I recommend upgrading to a premium plan (don't worry, it comes without a premium price tag). Only then can you unlock the full potential of this VPN, with access to hundreds of blazing-fast servers, unlimited data traffic, and premium features.

If you prefer to stick to the free version, the good news is it comes with no speed limitations (its speeds are impressive for a free service provider). But, to avoid disappointment, remember you could experience some slowing down during the peak hours. The reason for this is you only get to choose between three free server locations, which can get congested if all the other free users connect at the same time.

Strong privacy features

Privacy and security-wise, free AtlasVPN is a superb choice. You get robust encryption, a choice of VPN protocols (including the latest and greatest WireGuard protocol ), advanced features like SafeBrowse, which blocks malicious websites, and a kill-switch .

You won't experience bandwidth limitations with the free plan, but you only get an allowance of 5,000 free MB a month. Admittedly, this is less than what ProtonVPN offers, but more than most other VPN data allowances on this list.

Great value VPN

To sum it up, AtlasVPN is a free VPN of great value, with a slick and easy-to-use free app for Mac and other devices. It's perfect for browsing and protecting your device on less secure public networks.

And if, at any point, 5,000 MB becomes insufficient for your day-to-day needs, you can easily upgrade to a premium plan and go unlimited – for less than $2 a month, and with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

5. Windscribe

Windscribe is a reliable free VPN for Mac. It offers most of its premium features in its free plan, only limited by a data cap. It has great MacOS software and a strong encryption.

• 12 months: $4.08/mth
• 1 month: $9/mth
• Strong encryption options
• Customizable plans
• Add and malware blocking tool
• Live chat support, but can be slow
• WebRTC IPv6 leak on Mac
• Based in Canada

Windscribe Demo

Windscribe is a free VPN for Mac that is good for those who need plenty of use of a VPN for free. It is a secure service with apps for all platforms that will let you connect to servers in a total of 10 countries.

Versatile service

Overall, I found the VPN to be versatile and secure thanks to its no-logs policy and watertight encryption. However, do bear in mind that it is based in Canada which means the provider is subject to Canadian surveillance laws and FIVE EYES snooping. This may put some users off depending on their threat model.

However, we still think this is a useful free VPN that anybody can use to bypass restrictions and censorship. A secure service that does not skimp on privacy and stores zero logs. 

More than just a VPN

Windscribe's plans, both free and paid, are highly customizable. The free plan offers a whopping 10 server locations, with an option to choose your servers for $1 per location per month. On top of that, you get to earn more data and more bandwidth via Twitter and various referral programs.

Its ad and malware blocking tool, called R.O.B.E.R.T., can also be adjusted according to your needs and is available with all plans – a great bonus for free subscribers. A long list of advanced app and in-browser features will become available to you if you decide to upgrade to the Windscribe Pro plan – and you can check if they're worth the money with a 30-day money-back guarantee!

6. TunnelBear

TunnelBear offers a fantastic free VPN for Mac users that want a large server network. It lets users access 19 server locations, has a 500 MB monthly data limit, and has a slick MacOS app.

• 24 months: $4.17/mth 58% OFF
• 12 months: $4.99/mth 50% OFF
• Strong OpenVPN encryption
• Pretty good connection speeds
• "VigilantBear" killswitch feature
• Email support only
• Only 500MB of downloads per month
• No money-back guarantee with paid plans

Tunnelbear Demo

TunnelBear VPN is a free service for Mac that is also based in Canada. Again, this isn’t the best location we can think of for a privacy service to be based. However, it keeps no invasive logs that could put you at risk and its service has been audited to show that it is secure.

A complete servers' list for free

TunnelBear offers servers in 47 countries worldwide, all of which are available to you with the free plan. This is the only VPN on our list which allows you to access its complete servers network for free, so it's ideal for the folks who like to have more options.

Strong AES 256-bit encryption and Ghost Bear feature are other good reasons to consider this VPN. Ghost Bear makes you less detectable to governments, ISPs, and various other third parties, so your online activities remain private. This also means you can bypass various firewalls , including the great firewall of China.

Secure your browsing

On the downside, TunnelBear only lets users have 500MB of downloads per month – which means it is only going to be useful to people who want to read restricted news or secure their browsing. For streaming and other data-intensive tasks, stick to a VPN above.

Still, TunnelBear provides more location choices than any other VPN on this list, making it useful for circumventing censorship without paying. Also, if you decide to upgrade to an unlimited data plan, this VPN is quite an affordable option. 

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There are hundreds of free services on the market, and the vast majority of them log your data to sell to third-party crooks and provide little, if any, encryption. This is the polar opposite of what a VPN is supposed to do, and if you value privacy, it is important to stay away from these services. The providers behind these use the services to catch people out and steal user data.

Luckily, there are some free VPNs for Mac that you can trust. While it is extremely generous of some of the best VPN services to let consumers use their service for free, there are some caveats.

A free service is likely to cap your data. You'll have a daily or monthly allowance, and if you run over it, you'll no longer be able to use the VPN. This means your normal internet connection will resume, and both restricted and geo-blocked sites will become inaccessible once more.

Free services usually offer limited bandwidth, too. This isn't ideal for streaming as it can cause buffering and can slow down your connection.

A free VPN for Mac is likely to:

• Have monthly data caps.
• Use bandwidth limitations.
• Limit the number of servers you can choose from.
• Be unable to unblock anything.

Anything claiming to have unlimited internet for free is risky and you should steer clear. If you pay for a VPN, you'll have your pick of all of its servers. This isn't the case with most free services. They will usually have a reduced number of servers available for free users, and sometimes they simply won't be in the locations that you need them to be for unblocking content.

At the end of the day, there is no real way to get a full premium VPN experience for free. So if you require a VPN on a daily basis, it is probably worth investing to get a full unrestricted experience. There are plenty of cheap VPN services out there that are fantastic for streaming and have excellent privacy and security features, this could be an option.

Don't despair, however. A free VPN for Mac users can still be a powerful privacy tool , provided you don't need to stream.

Why use a free VPN for Mac?

Using a VPN will make your Mac more secure . Macs are just as susceptible to viruses and malware as a Windows machine. They're also being targeted by hackers more often now, thanks to a rise in popularity. Luckily, a VPN is the perfect tool to safeguard against malware and tracking – and even a free VPN for Mac can do more than you might expect.

A VPN conceals your IP address, thereby preventing your online activity from being logged by the sites you visit or your ISP. You can also access geo-blocked content with a VPN. This includes streaming sites, news outlets, and social media pages that might otherwise be restricted (either by your workplace or government). Additionally, by installing a VPN on your device, you'll be able to use it safely when in public, seeing as public WiFi connections are notoriously dangerous.

It can be tricky to find VPN software compatible with Macs, and that goes double if you want a free service. This is due to OpenVPN not being built into the macOS. Luckily, other secure protocols exist, and below, we've run through 6 of the best VPNs for Apple Mac users.

What to look for in a free VPN for Mac

Whilst there isn't an overabundance of free VPNs for Macs out there, you can still afford to be picky – don't get sucked in by the promise of a "free” service without checking the small print. All the providers we've listed above should be more than enough to protect your average browsing session, but there are things to look out for when shopping around:

• Strong encryption – you'll want your details and history to remain private, so tried-and-true encryption is a must.
• DNS leak protection – even with a VPN, you're not guaranteed to be protected from critical DNS leaks and the threat they represent, so make sure your VPN offers this functionality.
• Kill switch – a handy tool that'll keep you protected in the event that your VPN connection drops… or if you forget to switch it on.
• A zero-log policy – you have a right to online privacy, and no reputable VPN provider stores its users' activity logs.
• Customer service – even a free service shouldn't skimp on customer service!
• Ease of use – the last thing anybody wants is to waste time in complicated menus and UI settings; look for clean menus and quick installation.

How to install a free VPN for Mac?

Luckily, there's nothing to it. All you need to do is pick a provider – we've highlighted five of the best – and follow these three steps. You'll have your shiny new free VPN for your Mac up and running in no time!

• Navigate to your VPN provider's homepage and download the Mac OS X files.
• Follow the installation wizard when it begins, and log in using your credentials.
• Pick a server (this might be affected by which locations are available or the content you're trying to access) and hit connect – Voila! You're all ready to go.

How we picked the best free VPNs for Mac – testing methodology

Finding a reliable and secure VPN is not easy, especially among the free VPNs. This category of VPNs is particularly risky because many of them use unscrupulous methods to earn money – seeing as they're not charging for their services. That's why we rarely recommend free VPNs, and if we do, those are usually the VPNs that also offer paid plans. To them, free plans serve as a promotional strategy, and premium ones are how they pay their bills. So at least you know where their money comes from and there's less chance they are involved in any sort of data trade or similar fishy activities.

Of course, there's much more to it when choosing a good free VPN. ProPrivacy has a team of experts who compare and review market-leading providers daily, and who are always up to date with the latest news and innovations from the world of VPNs and cybersecurity in general. With each guide or comparison, we apply our thorough review and testing methodology , composed and perfected over the course of almost 10 years.

Our testing consists of many important steps, and we never skimp on details. For a start, we check whether a VPN has strong encryption to keep your browsing and other online activities safe. Multiple encryption protocols are a big plus as well. We make sure there are no DNS leaks, so you get the VPN privacy you need. Naturally, the VPNs we recommend must be fast enough and have stable connections to be useful.

Here you can see the other important factors we took into consideration when picking the best free VPNs for macOS:

• Custom apps for macOS that are fully functional and easy to use
• Servers in key locations to support your activities and bypass censorship
• Advanced privacy features , such as a kill-switch and DNS leak protection
• The ability to access popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer
• A free subscription plan that will allow you to use or test the service for free 
• A money-back guarantee , so you can upgrade to a premium plan risk-free anytime you wish to do so

Is a free VPN for Mac fast enough for streaming?

Unfortunately, free VPNs have fewer servers than their premium counterparts. This causes servers to become congested, which makes them too slow for data-intensive tasks such as streaming, gaming, torrenting, and video conferencing. 

In addition to having slow servers, free VPNs are often non-optimized for streaming platforms. This means that those servers will not work to watch Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and other popular services. VPNs keep this kind of access exclusively for their paid users, to make people want to upgrade to a paid plan.

Ultimately, you can try a free VPN to stream if you want to - and it may work with YouTube and some other streaming platforms. However, due to their slow speeds, you are likely to experience high levels of buffering, low-quality video playback, and lag.

In addition, you should not expect a free VPN to work with popular streaming services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and HBO Max. This is because free VPNs have already been blocked by these streaming services. 

Can I use a free VPN to protect me on public wifi?

Yes. As long as the free VPN you have selected provides strong encryption for your data, then it will work to protect your privacy on public wifi. This means that you have to be careful about which free VPN you use; they are not all created equally.

The important thing to remember is that studies have revealed that many free VPNs lack encryption, suffer from leaks, and even have app and server vulnerabilities. These VPNs will not prevent ISPs or wifi networks from detecting what you are doing online. They will fail to protect you against hackers.

This means that you must choose a free VPN provider extremely carefully. Only a few trustworthy VPN providers have a free plan that offers the same level of protection as a premium service, and the vast majority of the free VPNs you will find on app stores or Google searches are likely to be insecure.

We'd recommend any of the free VPNs for Mac users, but note that they are limited services. This doesn't mean that they're useless, however. A free service can still provide much-needed security for day-to-day browsing, and journalists and reporters can use them to quickly and freely access sites that would otherwise be restricted.

Depending on what you're doing online, a free VPN for Mac could be all you need or a great way to decide whether you want to take the plunge and commit to a premium plan.

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How to Download and Add ExpressVPN Extension on Safari

ExpressVPN no longer offers an extension for Safari. That's because starting with Safari 12, this browser relies only on extensions distributed via Apple’s Safari Extensions Gallery. ExpressVPN (like other VPNs) requires deep system privileges on macOS, so it's no longer able to work as a dedicated Safari extension.

However, that doesn't mean you can't use this VPN with Safari even though you get this pop-up: "ExpressVPN is no longer supported." That's because you can install ExpressVPN's native app on your Mac. That way, everything you do in Safari will be protected and encrypted.

How to Use ExpressVPN with Safari

What follows is our guide on how to set up and use ExpressVPN with Safari, ensuring you're protected on the Web. Do the following:

1. Sign up for ExpressVPN using your computer and any Web browser .

2. Now, proceed to  set up ExpressVPN on macOS . We’ve produced a detailed step-by-step guide on how that’s done, so make sure to use the provided link . 

3. Once you install ExpressVPN, go ahead and launch it . First, connect to the nearest server available by using the prominent ON/OFF switch . 

4. Now, feel free to launch Safari and use it like you usually would . Everything you do will be encrypted, and you'll get to unblock websites (based on the location of your chosen server).

5. At any moment, you can switch to a different server using ExpressVPN’s UI. To do so, click on the button just below the ON/OFF switch. Another window will open. Click on any country or server name , and ExpressVPN will re-connect you. 

That's it! As you can see, you can use ExpressVPN with Safari side-by-side. Just remember to connect to a VPN server first, wait until ExpressVPN's interface turns green, and you can return to your Web browser.

Final Thoughts

Even though the ExpressVPN Safari extension isn't available, it's still the best option for securing your privacy on your macOS computer. That's because instead of relying on a VPN extension, ExpressVPN's native software will protect not just Safari but your entire Web connection.

The same applies to any other device you might have, especially those that you use on the go. So, you should check out how to set up ExpressVPN on all its supported devices.

That would be all about how to use ExpressVPN on Safari. If you have any questions, make sure to post them via the comments section below. And lastly, thank you for reading!

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'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

How to set Safari extension permissions on a per-website basis

Most web browser users install extensions -- password managers, ad blockers, writing aids, and more. For the most part, those browser extensions don't cause problems with the sites you visit. But now and then, they do. Take for example the news that YouTube was cracking down on ad blockers -- cracking down to the extent that it would block you from viewing content if it detected you were using an ad blocker.

More Safari: Hide your location  |  Enable reading mode |  Use built-in 2FA code generator  | Merge multiple windows

Now, thanks to the latest version of Safari, you can add exceptions such that you can enable or disable extensions on a per-website basis. So, instead of having to set exceptions for a site (which aren't 100% guaranteed to work), you can simply disable the extension for the site in question.

This handy feature is quite easy to use and does guarantee the results will be effective. 

Let me show you how this works.

How to set Safari extension permissions 

What you'll need: The only things you'll need are Safari version 17 or newer and your favorite extensions installed. I'll be demonstrating on MacOS Sonoma.

One thing to keep in mind is that this feature doesn't work for every extension, so your mileage may vary.

1. Open Safari Settings

The first thing to do is open the Safari browser and ensure you have the site in question open (such as YouTube). Next, click the Safari menu in the MacOS Menu Bar. From that drop-down menu, click Settings.

2. Open the Websites edit window

In the Settings pop-up, click the Websites tab. In this section, you should see a list of all the extensions you've installed that can be managed.

All of your currently opened sites will be visible here.

3. Enable/disable sites

In the left pane, you'll find the listing of your extensions. Select the extension you want to manage and, in the right pane, you'll see a list of all currently opened tabs, each with a permissions drop-down with three options: Ask, Allow, Deny. Remember when I said earlier that you must have the site in question open in the browser before you attempt to add an exception? The reason for this is that you can't manually add a site as an exception. So, from the list of sites, find the one that's having trouble rendering with the exception enabled, click the associated drop-down, and click either Deny or Ask. If you're certain the site will not function with the extension, select Deny.

Also: Why Safari is no longer my browser of choice on MacOS - and what I use instead

Once you've taken care of all the sites that are having trouble with the extension, you can close the Settings popup and you're good to go. There's no need to restart Safari, as the changes will take place in real time.

And that's all there is to managing the permissions of your extensions in the latest version of Safari. Hopefully, this new feature will ensure that you don't have to miss out on your favorite sites, while not having to bother with more complicated configurations or even removing the extension altogether.

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Ad-Filtering Dev Summit 2023: recap

Content blocking may be but a drop in the vast ocean that is web technology, but we're happy that AdGuard happens to be part of it. What we cherish the most about our field of choice is, of course, the community. We have strong ties with the developers of other ad blockers and browsers, with filter maintainers and privacy researchers. Of course, there may be competition at times, but in the end we all know that we're working towards the common goal — making the Web safer for everyone.

The highlight of our collaboration is the annual Ad Filtering Dev Summit, where we all gather together to talk about what we've achieved over the last year and what challenges lie ahead.

We've written about all the past Summits in our blog, you can read about the previous one here .

This year, the AFDS 2023 took place in Amsterdam over two days, and it was packed with pressing topics, prominent speakers, and captivating talks. We'll cover them all and try to strike a balance between detail and brevity, so you can pick and watch the talks that interest you the most. You can also watch the entire event online and we would appreciate if you share your feedback with us and tag us on social media.

We will cover the topics in no particular order, and then we will list all the remaining talks that did not fit into any specific category. Let’s begin.

It probably won't surprise you to learn that AI is starting to affect the ad blocking industry, just like everything else. The initial craze over chatbots may have died down a bit, and you have a small chance of going through your day without hearing about ChatGPT, but people are still using them more and more for just about every task imaginable. And where there are lots of online users, there are ads. Some chatbots are honest and label the ad links in their replies, others sneak an ad into their replies so you wouldn't even notice it.

However, the relative scope of such ads is rather small for now. Blocking 'regular' ads remains by far the main task of current ad blockers, and it will stay that way for a while, but the day is not far off when you won't be able to call yourself a content blocker unless you can deal with chatbot ads.

Vladimir Zhelvis and Natalia Sokolova from AdGuard devoted their talk to modern LLMs (large language models), ways they can be exploited to deliver ads to users, and possible methods of blocking ads delivered that way.

Vladimir Zhelvis and Natalia Sokolova on using LLMs for user tracking and ad delivery

Dr. Humera Noor Minhas and Parinitha Hirehal from eyeo are frequent speakers at AFDS, and they never fail to deliver a great talk. This time, they chose to speak about how AI impacts ad filtering as a whole now and what will change in the future.

Dr. Humera Noor Minhas & Parinitha Hirehal on the impact AI has on ad filtering

Filter lists

One of the highlights of this year's Summit was the increase in the number of filter maintainers in attendance. They got much more speaking time than usual, and it was long overdue. Many casual ad blocker users may not realize that it's filters that actually block ads , and content blockers themselves can't magically distinguish ads and trackers from the actual content of the web page. And maintaining a filter list is a tedious and never-ending task , so we all better show filter developers some respect!

At AFDS 2023 filter maintainers deservedly got a lot of attention. Most notably, Ryan Brown, Imre Eilertsen, Elena Porubin, Peter Lowe, Dávid Tóta, Andrey Meshkov, and HoJeong Go participated in Filter lists maintainers panel, where they touched upon many different topics related to filter lists and, hopefully, cleared for all the viewers what does it mean to be a filter list maintainer.

Ryan Brown, Imre Eilertsen, Elena Porubin, Peter Lowe, Dávid Tóta, Andrey Meshkov, HoJeong Go on Filter lists maintainers panel

In addition to participating in the filter lists maintainers panel, some of its participants delivered separate talks, which were just as exciting:

Are Privacy Preserving Analytics Possible? by Peter Lowe , an independent filter list maintainer

Anti-adblocks are being platformed by HoJeong Go , an independent software developer and filter list maintainer

Breaking Adware Chains and notification spam by Ryan Brown a.k.a. FanboyNZ , filter list engineer at Brave and Easylist maintainer

However, this is not the end of filter lists story at AFDS 2023. We decided to group some of the filter list-related talks into a separate section.

Filter lists ecosystem

At their core, filter lists are what the name implies — lists of rules, each of the rules basically a text string. However, simplifying the process of creating a filter into mere meddling with a .txt file is doing its creator an injustice. There's much more work done behind the scenes, not visible to the eye. The 'filter list ecosystem', as we call it, expands rapidly, and there were several excellent talks about it at AFDS 2023.

Dávid Tóta from AdGuard looked back at the evolution of developer tools for filter creators and presented AGLint , a tool that makes it easier to develop filter lists and arms their creators with new, powerful instruments.

Dávid Tóta, talking about the evolution of developer tools for filter lists and presenting AGLint

Sandra Siby, Research Associate at Imperial College London , talked about another thing that could potentially revolutionize the filter development process — automatic detection of website breakages by filters.

Sandra Siby on automatic detection of breakage caused by ad-blocking

A report by Hieu Le, Postdoc at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor & University of California, Irvine , expanded on the topic of automatization as he spoke about the future automatic filter lists generation.

Hieu Le on the future of automatic filter list generation

Right now, both of these automatic tools (especially the tool for website breakage detection) are not production-ready. But when they will be, ad blockers will leap to the entirely new level. We will be able not only to automate filter rules creation but, ultimately to greatly improve the quality of ad blocking — something that the end users will be able to experience first-hand.

Browsers & MV3

Oh, Manifest v3... If you follow our blog or take interest in browser extensions in general, you've certainly heard about it a thousand times already. But just in case you didn't — Manifest v3 is the new proposed browser extension API for Chrome browser, coming to replace its predecessor Manifest v2. To put it simply, it will define what extensions can and what they can not do. It was first announced in 2019 and spurred a major controversy, as it aimed to severely restrict the capabilities of many extensions, including content blockers.

Just as in 2022, MV3 was one of the most-discussed topics at the Summit this year. However, the narrative has changed a bit: the community's view on it was far more positive today than a year or so ago . Not in the least thanks to the common effort by the developers of browsers and browser extensions. Dmitriy Seregin, a software engineer from AdGuard , presented an update on the current state of Manifest v3 at AFDS 2023.

Dmitriy Seregin on how AdGuard adapted its extensions to MV3

A big factor that helped sway the attitude of the ad-blocking community towards Manifest v3 is the willingness of Chrome's developers to take our concerns into consideration. We can see the concrete steps that they take to address them, and this was reflected in the big report presented by a group of Chrome devs at the Summit.

David Li, Devlin Cronin, Oliver Dunk, Patrick Kettner, Chary Chen on what's new in Chrome

For a different perspective on MV3, watch the browser developer panel at AFDS that included developers of Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Brave browsers. Lots of tricky questions, lots of interesting replies.

Arjan van Leeuwen, Luca Greco, Devlin Cronin, Anton Lazarev on Browser panel

Despite the fact that the Chrome devs spend considerable resources on fixing the MV3, and the dynamic is definitely positive, there are still many questions left. So follow our blog to stay tuned — we will keep you updated on the topic of Manifest v3.

Regulations & legal matters

Content blocking can be a touchy subject, as blocking ads can cost websites and publishers money. For this reason, the legality of ad blocking has been at the forefront of discussion for years, the most famous case being eyeo vs. Axel Springer — we've covered it before .

Key Recke, General Counsel at eyeo GmbH , has told the Summit attendants about the most recent developings of this case. Thankfully, so far so good, but it's too early to celebrate.

Kai Recke on how publishers use copyright claims to control browser configuration

It's not just lawsuits, of course. Natascha Gerlach, Director of Privacy Policy at Centre for Information Policy Leadership , Cornelius Witt, Director Global Public Affairs at eyeo , and Lartease M. Tiffith, Executive Vice President, Public Policy at IAB , talked in lengths about the intricacies of the US and EU regulatory landscapes in the data privacy area.

Natascha Gerlach, Cornelius Witt, Lartease M. Tiffith on the US and EU regulatory landscapes in privacy

Lisette Mei, Data Protection Officer at Piwik PRO , homed in on the new EU-US Data Privacy Framework and its implications.

Lisette Meij on the new EU-US Data Privacy Framework

Privacy research

The Summit has "Ad Filtering" in its name for a reason, but it's not just about blocking ads. Content blocking and privacy protection go hand-in-hand, and AFDS 2023 has showed exactly that. Several speakers chose to talk about various privacy-related topics. Each of them is interesting in its own way:

The Costs of Crossing the Line: Privacy Implications of Cross-Domain Script Interactions by Pouneh Bahrami , PhD student at University of California, Davis

Demystifying the Mystery of Privacy-Invasive JS Functions by Abdul Haddi Amjad , PhD Student at Virginia Tech University

PURL: Safe and Effective Sanitization of Link Decoration by Shaoor Munir , Graduate Student Researcher at University of California, Davis

The talk by Ben Savage from Meta gets a special notion from us. Ben spoke about developing a new standard for calculating conversions in a privacy-friendly manner. Browsers step away from third-party cookies (which is good), but they are looking for a substitute to keep evaluating the effectiveness of ads.

Ben Savage on private ads measurement standards

It's not often that people from "the opposing camp" join the Summit, so we're especially glad to see that AdTech representatives keep users' privacy in mind too.

Sustainability

A few of the talks were devoted to sustainability and the problem of carbon footprint that computers leave. You may be surprised to learn that that this topic, seemingly unrelated to ad blocking, attracted not just one, but several speakers. In reality, when you think of it, blocking ads saves quite a bit of energy!

Compute x Climate: Innovations in decarbonizing data by Victoria McIvor , McIvor BV

Good for planet, good for business by Claire Gleeson-Landry , Good-Loop

Sustainability in ad-blocking-related areas is a very real issue, and it is further illustrated by the fact that one of this Summit's few panels was dedicated exactly to this matter.

Terry Taouss, Leigh Freund, Claire Gleeson-Landry, Justin Wohl on prioritizing sustainable media

We'd like to cover every talk, but some were just too specific to put them in the same basket with the others. It doesn't mean that there's something wrong with them! Rather they deserve a special mention from us.

Welcome word by Summit moderators and Gertrud Kolb , Chief Technology Officer at eyeo. She spoke about principles of humanism in tech

Web Monetization — The 100% Ad Filter by Sabine Schaller , Engineering Lead at Interledger Foundation. Her presentation was dedicated to an innovative way of getting rid of ads while still supporting publishers

Beyond Effective Extensions: Automated Testing of SDKs by Agnieszka Czyzewska , Senior Software Development Engineer in Test, eyeo. She shared her team’s experience in maintaining effective tests for the solution which empowers ad filtering extensions

All in all, we believe the Summit was a success. It kept all the good from the previous year and built upon it. We discussed both the "evergreen" topics, such as Manifest v3, and new exciting ones, like AI and sustainability issues. We had a great time and are looking forward to see what the next year's AFDS will bring.

Hope you found this Summit's talks informative and entertaining and share our excitement for the next one!

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Best VPNs for Firefox in 2023

Posted: November 10, 2023 | Last updated: November 10, 2023

• Offers an extension specifically designed for working with Firefox
• Offers tutorials for improving your safety and security
• Lets you choose your server country in Firefox version
• Unlimited devices means you can use it on any device where you’ve installed Firefox
• No need for a desktop client to utilize the VPN
• Firefox version of the VPN includes a kill switch

Private Internet Access VPN

• Supplements Firefox’s built-in security and privacy measures
• Use Firefox to access Netflix content libraries in multiple countries
• Responsive customer service with expertise in Firefox issues

Call it a habit, but I started using Firefox in college, and I’m not looking back. I know Chrome might be a little more popular, but like a first love, Firefox will always be the browser for me. It’s fast, it’s secure, it’s stable, it’s everything I need in a browser, and I’m not going to give Google any more of my data than they already harvest. Take that, Chrome.

And for that matter, I don’t want to give anyone any of my data. Not my internet service provider (ISP), not snooping intelligence agencies, not the hackers and scammers trolling my local coffee shop’s Wi-Fi network. To pull that off, I always connect to the internet using a VPN.

So right off the bat, let me make something clear. There are no VPNs “for” specific browsers. Some VPNs offer extensions for specific browsers, but that’s a bit of a misnomer. A VPN extension is actually what’s called a proxy. They mask your IP address by routing browser traffic through a middleman server. This can be pretty effective for masking yourself online, but if a proxy is a camouflage jacket, a VPN is a cloaking device.

>> Learn About: What Can Someone Do With Your IP Address?

In layman’s terms, a VPN creates a secure channel from your computer to your digital destination, and encrypts the traffic traveling through it. If someone wants to see what you’re doing online, they’d first have to punch a hole in that tunnel and then decode your information. There’s really no way to do this through brute force, and it’s only through really sophisticated exploits that hackers are able to pull it off. If you just want something to keep your banking information private while you’re connected to the hotel Wi-Fi, a solid VPN is a great option.

I’ve spent countless hours testing tons of VPNs for Firefox in order to determine which ones are the best, and which ones you can pass over. Before we get to my detailed list, though, here’s a quick peek at the criteria I used to judge them.

What to Look For in a VPN if You Use Firefox

Do i need a vpn if i use firefox.

This is a bit like asking, “do I need to lock my doors if I live in a condo?” The short answer is no, you don’t need to, but you’ll certainly be more protected if you do.

The same goes for VPN use. While Firefox is a relatively secure browser, there are still threats out there it won’t be able to protect you from. The best way to stay safe online is to use a robust VPN. Not only will it help you stay completely anonymous online, it will encrypt your data so that anyone attempting to intercept it won’t be able to decipher anything meaningful.

>> Check Out: Is a VPN Something You Need?

This is doubly important if you’re ever using public Wi-Fi networks, and even more important if you’re doing important things like banking or checking your work email away from home. You never know who you’re sharing that network with, and with just a little know-how and nefarious intention, they could swipe your most sensitive information.

Thankfully, a solid VPN will stop ‘em dead in their tracks.

Does Firefox Have a Built-In VPN?

As of 2020, Firefox started offering the Mozilla VPN, which has about 500 servers in about 30 different countries. Not too shabby, but keep in mind others on my list, like Surfshark and NordVPN, have server fleets numbering in the thousands.

As far as the pricing goes, a single month of Mozilla VPN costs $9.99 and a yearlong plan is available for $4.99 per month. That’s decent, but you can get a lot more features and a much larger server network with the VPN services on this list.

» Further Reading: Mozilla VPN Review

How Do I Add a VPN Extension to Firefox?

Assuming your VPN offers a Firefox extension or add-on, the process for installing it is relatively straightforward:

• Find the add-on or extension in the Firefox add-on library.
• Click “add to Firefox.”
• Allow the extension to run in private windows.
• Click on the VPNs icon in the top-right corner of your browser window.
• Log on to the VPN.

Keep in mind though, a VPN extension isn’t really a VPN — it’s a proxy server that only hides your IP address. It won’t encrypt your data or offer any of the other security benefits a true VPN will.

What Are the Disadvantages of Using a VPN on Firefox?

There aren’t that many drawbacks of using a VPN, particularly in the United States, where their use is perfectly legal. The primary issue is performance slowdowns, but as you can see from the charts above, most of the time these slowdowns are pretty much negligible. Sure, you can get hung up on the numbers — Ivacy, for instance, slowed my connection speed by more than half, but that’s because I was on a crazy-fast connection to start with. On the day-to-day, it’s tough for me to tell I’m using a VPN most of the time.

Another potential drawback of using a VPN on Firefox (or Chrome, or Safari , or any browser) is a false sense of security. Sure, a solid VPN is one of the best tools available for staying safe while browsing on Firefox, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t fall victim to things like social engineering attacks. If someone phishes you and you give them your password or credit card information, a VPN isn’t going to be much help.

>> Learn More: Best VPNs for Chrome

Methodology

We’re asked quite a lot how we go about picking the VPNs for a list like this one. The answer is simple: We do our homework. We research and test new VPNs as they come on the market. We return to VPNs we know and retest. We look at security features, connection speeds, prices, and bonus options like split tunneling. Then we spend a lot of time comparing everything. Only then do we make our choices.

Want to know more about our process? Check out our complete guide to VPNs , or see below for our in-depth description of what we look for.

The whole purpose of a VPN is to keep you safe and secure. Security, though, isn’t as simple as what encryption method a company uses or whether or not its connections leak. Security is a complex web made up of several different elements:

• Encryption: We prefer VPNs that use AES-256 encryption. Sure, you could go with AES-128 and get slightly faster speeds. You wouldn’t get the same level of protection, though. How secure is AES-256? It’s what the U.S. military uses to encrypt its communications.
• Protocols: Protocols are the instructions a VPN uses to connect you to the server. There are a number of protocols out there, each one designed to provide a different benefit. Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP), for example, is particularly useful for unblocking streaming content from other countries. When it comes to security, though, OpenVPN is the gold standard in protocols. Because it’s open-source, it has been rigorously tested and improved to the point where it’s virtually guaranteed safe.
• Leak Tests: VPNs are vulnerable to two kinds of leaks: A WebRTC leak can expose your IP address, while a DNS leak can expose your browsing activity. Wecheck VPNs for both. We use an ExpressVPN tool to check for WebRTC leaks and the test at DNSLeakTest.com to check for DNS leaks.
• Multi-hop: Multi-hop technology adds an additional level of security to your VPN connection. The whole point of a VPN is to route your internet connection through a secure server so no one can track your online activities. VPNs that offer multi-hop route your connection through not one but two or more different servers. With each additional server, your security improves exponentially.
• Headquarters Location: We carefully consider where each VPN company is located, and we tend to avoid companies that are headquartered in countries that belong to the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and 14 Eyes surveillance alliances. Member countries of those alliances have agreed to share digital intelligence with one another, and that includes spying on their own citizens. Law enforcement agencies can subpoena customer data from any company based in one of these countries. Obviously then, VPNs based outside these alliances are safer than those based inside them.
• Privacy Policy: The government can’t subpoena information about you if the VPN doesn’t hold on to any of that information in the first place. We go over every company’s privacy policy with a fine-toothed comb to find out exactly what data it does and doesn’t keep. Of course, all VPNs record some data, like billing information. They couldn’t operate otherwise. The best VPNs, though, don’t record IP addresses, browsing activity, or timestamps.

Security is the foundation of a great VPN, but it’s nice to have a few bonus features as well. We’re always interested in companies that offer:

• Access to Streaming Services: With a good VPN, you can log on to other countries’ Netflix libraries as well as streaming services that aren’t available in your own home country. Of course, most of the services out there work hard to block this kind of access, but our favorite companies are excellent at getting around these blocks.
• Split Tunneling: A VPN is essential any time you are using public Wi-Fi. The downside, though, is that VPNs can often use up a lot of bandwidth. Even in the best case, that slows your connection. Worst case? More bandwidth costs you more money. That’s why it’s useful when a VPN offers split tunneling. This feature allows you to log on to the regular internet at the same time you’re using the VPN. That way you can stream music and video through the public Wi-Fi even while you’re using the VPN to transfer sensitive data.
• Torrenting: As mentioned, we love our TV. And sure, we can access tons of streaming content through a good VPN. But every now and then, we want to see something that’s older and a little harder to find. That’s why we’re fans of VPNs that are set up for torrenting. The best VPNs for torrenting come with tools like kill switches , split tunneling, and dedicated torrenting servers.

A VPN isn’t much use if it slows down your device so much that sites take forever to load and your videos constantly have to re-buffer. When you’re online, speed matters. Of course, every VPN slows your devices down to some extent. The goal is to find VPNs that slow them down as little as possible. We put every VPN through a series of speed tests. We use both a Windows machine and a Mac. First we establish the device’s baseline speed, which is how it performs without the VPN running. Then we enable the VPN and check the speed again. Comparing these two numbers gives us a percentage that we can use to decide just how much the VPN affects the device.

>> See Also: The Fastest VPNS Available

When it comes to price, our standards are pretty simple. We like VPNs with monthly subscription rates less than $13. It helps if the company offers deep discounts for users who are willing to make long-term commitments. A good price for a one-year contract is typically between $2 and $4 monthly, and we’ve seen prices as low as $1 a month for a five-year contract. Of course, the general rule of thumb is that the cheaper the better. We aren’t made of money, after all. Still, the old maxim is usually true: you get what you pay for. We’re willing to pay a little extra to make sure we are well-protected and have features that boost our productivity.

>> Read More: VPN Cost Guide

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