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With the increase in the number of online threats, it has become all the more important to ensure security for Internet connections over OpenVPN, which can be considered a reliable application for making online privacy secure. Remote workers, individuals seeking to bypass restrictions to access content, and anyone wanting an extra layer of protection would find OpenVPN, with its strong encryption standards and flexibility, a good choice for establishing secure connectivity.
This guide will demonstrate step-by-step how to install and configure an OpenVPN on macOS, both server side and client side. By the end of this tutorial, you will be guaranteed a private and secure browsing experience, with the added benefit of the many functionalities OpenVPN provides.
Why Should You Use OpenVPN on MacOS?
OpenVPN is one of the most powerful, versatile, and secure VPN solutions for enhancing online security and privacy. It also offers flexibility in network configurations.
OpenVPN implements stronger encryption than those embedded in macOS, is better able to work with different VPN servers, and unlocks geo-restrictions more effectively. OpenVPN secures a reliable connection for remote work, accessing sensitive data, or just browsing anonymously. Read on to find out why OpenVPN is an excellent choice for macOS users.
Learn about the Linux using the link: What is Linux?
- Strong Encryption & Security: OpenVPN uses AES-256-bit encryption, ensuring that your internet traffic remains private and protected from hackers, ISPs, and government surveillance.
- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: With OpenVPN, you can connect to servers worldwide, allowing you to access region-locked content, such as streaming services, websites, or services restricted in your country.
- Stable and Reliable Connection: OpenVPN is known for its ability to maintain a stable connection even on unreliable networks, making it ideal for remote work, online gaming, and video conferencing.
- Customizable & Open-Source: Being an open-source VPN protocol, OpenVPN offers high customization options, allowing users to configure it according to their security and networking needs.
- Works with Various VPN Providers: Many VPN service providers support OpenVPN, giving users the flexibility to choose a provider that meets their specific needs while still benefiting from OpenVPN’s robust security features.
If you want to learn about the differences between VPN and VPS, read the article: VPN vs VPS
How to Install OpenVPN on MacOS
OpenVPN installation for macOS is simple, and you can use this to connect to the internet privately and securely. Install and configure OpenVPN on your Mac by following these steps.
Download and Install Tunnelblick (OpenVPN Client for macOS)
Tunnelblick is a free, open-source OpenVPN client designed for macOS.
- Visit the official Tunnelblick website.
- Click "Download Tunnelblick" and select the latest stable version.
- Open the downloaded .dmg file and drag Tunnelblick into the Applications folder.
- Launch Tunnelblick and grant necessary permissions when prompted.
Download OpenVPN Configuration Files
To connect to an OpenVPN server, you need .ovpn configuration files from your VPN provider or server administrator.
- Log in to your VPN provider’s website and navigate to the OpenVPN configuration files section.
- Download the appropriate .ovpn files for your desired server locations.
- If you are setting up your own OpenVPN server, generate configuration files using OpenVPN’s server setup guide.
Import OpenVPN Configuration into Tunnelblick
- Open Tunnelblick and click "I have configuration files."
- Locate the downloaded .ovpn file and double-click it.
- Tunnelblick will prompt you to install the configuration – choose whether to install for All Users or Only Me (admin privileges required for all users).
Connect to OpenVPN Server
- Launch Tunnelblick and find your imported VPN profile in the menu bar.
- Click the profile and select "Connect" to establish a VPN connection.
- Enter your VPN credentials (if required).
- Once connected, a notification will confirm a secure OpenVPN connection.
If you want to learn how to install OpenVPN on CentOS, read the article below:
How to install OpenVPN on CentOS?
How to Fix Common OpenVPN Issues on macOS
OpenVPN is a reliable VPN solution; however, there are occasional connection failures on macOS due to application errors, network settings, or software conflicts. The most common issues are connection errors, DNS leaks, and authentication failures. Luckily, all can be trouble-shot using relatively simple steps. Below is a table with some of the common OpenVPN problems that occur on macOS along with their solutions.
|
Issue |
Cause |
Solution |
|
Tunnelblick says "No VPN configurations found." |
Missing or incorrect .ovpn file |
Ensure you have imported a valid OpenVPN configuration file by double-clicking it in Tunnelblick. |
|
OpenVPN fails to connect or keeps disconnecting. |
Network issues, server downtime, or incorrect credentials |
Restart Tunnelblick, check your internet connection, try a different server, or verify login details. |
|
DNS leaks while using OpenVPN. |
macOS may continue using default DNS servers instead of VPN-provided ones |
Enable "Set DNS/WINS" in Tunnelblick settings or use a third-party DNS leak protection tool. |
|
Slow VPN speeds. |
Overloaded VPN server or poor network connection |
Switch to a different VPN server, use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi, or try UDP instead of TCP in your .ovpn file. |
|
Tunnelblick error: "Waiting for server response." |
Firewall or antivirus blocking the connection |
Temporarily disable firewall/antivirus or whitelist Tunnelblick in security settings. |
|
Cannot access local network while connected to VPN. |
OpenVPN routes all traffic through the VPN by default |
Enable "Allow local network access" in Tunnelblick settings. |
Conclusion
OpenVPN installation is therefore a relatively simple procedure, more so an efficient method, of providing you with security and privacy while online. In this step-by-step procedure, you will learn how to install and set up OpenVPN using Tunnelblick, troubleshoot common problems, and enjoy a steady encrypted connection.
Be it remote work, bypassing geo-restriction, or securing internet traffic, OpenVPN fits all these requirements. Provided proper configuration and troubleshooting, enjoying a seamless VPN experience on your Mac will surely come to pass.