How to Disable a VPN on macOS? – Simple Methods You Can Use
You may want to disable your VPN when you need speed, access to services that block VPNs, local content, or your local area network (LAN) resources.
Disabling a VPN on your Mac is an easy task. Below are different easy ways that you can use to disable a VPN on Mac.
Disable the VPN on Mac Via the VPN App
This is the simplest way to turn off the VPN on your Mac. Proceed as follows:
- Launch the VPN application.
- Click on the disconnect/turn off/stop button.
Disable the VPN on Mac from Menu Bar
This is a straightforward way of disabling a VPN on a Mac. Most VPNs will show on the Menu bar. Use the following steps:
- On the Menu Bar, click on the VPN status.
- Select turn off/stop/disconnect.
Disable the VPN on Mac Through Network Settings
This is not the quickest way, but you can use it if the other options are unavailable. Here is how to turn off the VPN in Mac network settings:
- Open your System Preferences and then go to Network.
- On the left panel, select your current VPN connection.
- Click disconnect.
What Happens When I Disable a VPN on Mac?
Your online privacy and security will be at risk. You will miss the VPN encryption, and your IP address will no longer be hidden.
Anything you do online will be visible to internet entities, including your ISP, the government, prying eyes, and other interested parties.
If you are on public Wi-Fi, you will be an easy pick for hackers. Various trackers on the internet will be able to monitor your activities.
You also won’t be able to bypass restrictions and censorship or gain access to geo-restricted content.
Should I Always Keep my VPN Connected on Mac?
I always advise any privacy-conscious individual to keep the VPN connected. They are a few instances when you can turn it off.
This is when your internet is off or you are not engaging in sensitive online activities.
Use split tunneling for other purposes, such as regaining speed, gaming, and accessing your local area network (LAN) resources or regional content.
To access services that block VPNs, use a dedicated VPN IP address and whitelist it with those services. You don’t need to disable a VPN.
Wrap Up
Turning off a VPN on your Mac can leave your online security and privacy at risk. Without the protection of a VPN, your internet connection and the data you transmit become more susceptible to cyber threats and surveillance.
Instead, use a reputable premium VPN with value features like split tunneling. This feature allows you to separate apps that don’t need the Mac VPN and protect those with sensitive information.