Using a VPN on a Mac
A VPN scrambles your internet connection so that others on the same network can't read it. It's most useful on public Wi-Fi, and less necessary at home.
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When it helps
Turn on a VPN when you use Wi-Fi you don't control, in a café, hotel, or airport, especially before signing in to anything or using banking. It stops someone on the same network intercepting your traffic.
Choosing one
Pick a reputable paid provider with a clear no-logging policy, such as Mullvad, Proton VPN, or NordVPN. Avoid free VPNs, since many make their money by logging and selling your browsing. Install the provider's app from their official site or the App Store.
At home you rarely need one
On your own secured home network, a VPN adds little for most people. Save it for networks you don't trust, where it genuinely earns its place.
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