If you’re a macOS or iOS user, you already have the Safari browser installed in your computer system. Since all major VPN services offer apps for macOS and iOS users, you should have no problem finding a VPN service to keep your personal data secure from snooping third parties while you use the internet. In this article, I’ll go through some of the reasons to consider using a VPN and which ones are the best for Safari.
VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, are privacy tools that are useful for both keeping you secure online and unblocking geo-restricted streaming content. VPNs will secure your traffic with a layer of encryption and route it through an intermediary server located somewhere else in the world before your internet service provider (ISP) has a chance to look through your browsing history. The encryption also keeps your personally identifiable data from being exposed to third parties. If you’re mainly interested in streaming high-definition video content unavailable in your region, then you’re in luck – a VPN will give you the appearance of watching a streaming service from another country, which means you will be able to access geo-restricted content on streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu while you’re traveling abroad.
I’ll go into each of these VPNs in detail, but for now, here’s a quick summary of my top picks.
Best VPNs for Safari:
- NordVPN: The best VPN for Safari users. Grants access to thousands of fast servers around the world that can smoothly stream HD video. Zero logs. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: A budget VPN that meets a high standard for security and speed. Works well with Safari on iOS and macOS devices and offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
- ExpressVPN: Remarkably fast speeds for HD streaming on iOS and macOS devices. Keeps no logs and employs strong encryption.
- CyberGhost: A user-friendly Safari VPN great for beginners. Offers 9,000+ servers in 91+ countries around the world, making it the largest server network on this list.
- PrivateVPN: A VPN newcomer that works great on Safari and is a great choice for streaming HD video.
- IPVanish: Fast speeds, strong privacy protections, and no connection limit. Works seamlessly on Safari.
- Private Internet Access: A lightweight and secure option that works seamlessly with many browsers including Safari.
- Atlas VPN: A fast option that can unblock many different services. It also works well with Safari.
While there are many great VPNs on the market today, some are better for Safari users than others. I’ve assembled this list of VPNs based on the following criteria:
- Compatible with macOS and iOS devices
- Fast streaming speeds
- Powerful encryption standards
- Lifts geographic restrictions
For more information about the criteria I used, make sure you check out my in-depth testing methodology section later in this article.
The Best VPNs for Safari
Here is my list of the best VPNs for Safari:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is my top pick VPN for Safari users. This fast, privacy-oriented VPN can be installed on macOS and iOS to protect the internet traffic running through your Safari browser. Apps are available for Windows, Android, and Linux as well, with the latter requiring manual configuration. It allows up to six simultaneous connections under a single account.
The provider doesn’t include a Safari browser extension, but it does include an HTTP proxy that can be configured with your browser. Web proxies aren’t as effective at protecting your privacy as VPNs, however, as they don’t encrypt your internet traffic or provide any other security benefits.
NordVPN’s security offerings include 256-bit AES encryption, 2,048-bit SSL keys, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. That means none of your personal data will be stored on the company’s servers, so you will be able to use the internet anonymously.
It runs one of the largest server networks on the market with more than 5,600 servers in 59+ countries to choose from. It offers specialty servers that are optimized for anti-DDoS, video streaming networks, double VPN, Tor over VPN, and dedicated IP. NordVPN can circumvent geographical restrictions on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, and it also supports torrenting.
Pros:
- Compatible with macOS, and iOS
- Remarkable connection speeds
- Over 5,600 servers worldwide
- Safari-compatible HTTP proxy
- Military-grade encryption and strong security protections
Cons:
- The desktop app is somewhat challenging for VPN novices
BEST VPN FOR SAFARI:NordVPN is my favorite VPN to use with Safari. Strongest security standards in the industry including a zero-logs policy. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is perfect for Safari users on a budget. Even at a low price, Surfshark offers great security features such as 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. If you own a large number of devices, this provider will protect all of them with its unlimited simultaneous connections. There are over 3,200 servers to choose from, most of which are great for streaming HD content.
Surfshark follows a no-logs policy and lets customers sign up anonymously by accepting payments in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple. Although it doesn’t feature a Safari browser extension, it does offer apps for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux. Supported internet routers can be manually configured with the app.
Pros:
- Strong emphasis on privacy and security
- Fast connection speeds are suitable for HD streaming from abroad
- Unmetered connections
- Zero logs
- Low cost
Cons:
- You might run into a few slow servers here and there
- Customer support can be hard to reach
TOP BUDGET CHOICE:Surfshark is great for families who need to protect a lot of devices. Comes with reliable security protections that you can trust, including a zero-logs policy. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN covers all operating systems that Safari comes with by default, including macOS and iOS. It is the only VPN on this list that comes with a dedicated Safari browser extension. It will also run on Windows and Android operating systems as well as Amazon Fire TV Stick, Amazon Fire TV, Kindle Fire tablets, and Linux devices. Five simultaneous connections are permitted at once.
ExpressVPN’s robust security offerings include 256-bit AES encryption with the OpenVPN protocol, and 4096-bit RSA encryption for session establishment – the strongest encryption available on the market today. Other security features include automatic WiFi protection and a kill switch to halt all web traffic in the event of a sudden loss of connection, keeping you from using the web without encryption.
Its server network is spread across 94+ countries and gives users a wide selection of 3,000+ servers to choose from, making ExpressVPN a good choice for those who are mainly interested in unblocking geo-restricted streaming content.
Pros:
- Thousands of fast servers worldwide for streaming, downloading, and gaming
- Military-grade encryption and strong privacy protections
- Bypasses geo-blocks easily
- Safari browser extension
Cons:
- One of the more expensive VPNs
- Isn’t the most customizable VPN
STREAM ANYTHING:ExpressVPN is a great VPN for streaming HD video, but it doesn’t slack when it comes to privacy, either. It’s the only VPN in this list with a dedicated Safari browser extension. Try it for 30 risk-free days.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN that works with Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS, but does not feature a Safari browser extension. Apps are available for Windows and Android as well, and can be manually configured on some routers and Linux systems.
CyberGhost is a suitable option for those who have never used a VPN before due to its easy-to-use interface. Users can select a server based on the desired activity, such as downloading or streaming, and even lets you select a server by streaming service. Up to five devices can be protected simultaneously.
It offers a server network of over 9,000 servers in 91+ countries and includes a special cloaking option for additional protection in countries with strong government restrictions on internet services. Your traffic is secured with AES 256-bit encryption and 4096-bit RSA encryption for session establishment. CyberGhost features a built-in kill switch and automatic WiFi protection.
Pros:
- 9,000+ servers in 91+ countries
- Optimized servers for high-performance streaming and security
- Tough encryption protocol
- Easy for novices
Cons:
- No Safari browser extension
- Experienced VPN users may want to look elsewhere for customizable features
FIRST-TIME VPN:CyberGhost is beginner-friendly. Largest server network on this list. Great for streaming and secure online browsing. Comes with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
5. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is another no-logs VPN that offers access to 200+ servers in 63+ countries. Your Safari browser is protected with apps for macOS and iOS devices. Apps are also available for Windows and Android, and can be manually configured on supported routers, Amazon fire devices, and Linux operating systems.
With PrivateVPN, your internet connection is secured with 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol. This VPN also includes a kill switch and automatic WiFi protection to keep you safe on unsecured public networks. PrivateVPN’s customer support is available during Swedish business hours via live chat, and they can even take control of your computer remotely to configure your VPN for you, with your permission.
A single account will grant you a total of 10 simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- Compatible with Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS devices
- Excellent suite of security features
- Zero logs
- Unblocks and streams just about anything
Cons:
- Small server network
- Customer support only available during Swedish business hours
GOOD ALL-ROUNDER:PrivateVPN is a great VPN for streaming, but maintains high security standards as well. Doesn’t have 24/7 support or very many servers. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
6. IPVanish
IPVanish is a reliable VPN service for both streaming and privacy purposes. Its server network spans over 2,000 servers in 75+ locations around the world. It doesn’t feature a Safari browser extension, but apps are available for macOS and iOS operating systems. Additional apps are available on Windows and Android devices, and can be manually configured on Amazon Fire devices and routers. IPVanish is one of the few VPNs that permits an unlimited number of simultaneous connections.
Although the company is based in the United States and is therefore vulnerable to the demands of law enforcement agencies like the NSA, customers’ data is fortified with 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol. Other security features include a kill switch and automatic WiFi protection. Furthermore, IPVanish keeps no logs on its users’ data, which means that the company wouldn’t be able to disclose your information to the authorities even if they wanted to.
Pros:
- Compatible with Mac OS X, macOS, and iOS
- 256-bit AES encryption, kill switch, automatic WiFi protection
- Stores no logs
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
Cons:
- Relatively small server network
- Doesn’t work in China
NO CONNECTION LIMIT:IPVanish emphasizes security above all. Doesn’t consistently work with Netflix but it comes with powerful security protections and a zero-logs policy. Features a 30-day money-back guarantee.
7. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a lightweight option that makes use of the fast and efficient WireGurd VPN protocol. This ensures that users have the speed that they need when carrying out activities such as streaming. It works well with Safari too, allowing users to access services like YouTube TV and BBC iPlayer. PIA’s app interfaces can be customized as well to suit your preferences.
The provider also has strong security measures in place. These include AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling. This service also stores no logs.
PIA also provides apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. In addition, PIA has an excellent customer service team in place. They are available 24/7 via live chat. 10 simultaneous connections are also allowed.
Pros:
- Strong security measures are in place
- PIA can provide secure access to many different services
- The fast and efficient WireGuard protocol is supported
- Several customization options are available
Cons:
- Doesn’t work reliably in China
- App design is lacking in some ways
8. Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN has servers in over 40 locations. In total, this provider has more than 750 servers and its network is fast enough to allow for the streaming of services such as Netflix without lag or buffering. While this provider’s VPN network isn’t the largest, it offers high-quality service and is a great choice for browsers such as Safari.
In addition, Atlas VPN has strong security features including AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. This service stores no logs either. There are also MultiHop servers available that can encrypt your data twice.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. An unlimited number of connections is also supported.
Pros:
- Able to access many different streaming services
- Fast connection speeds
- MultiHop servers encrypt data twice
- No identifying logs are stored
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in China
- Customer service could use some improvement
Methodology: How I found the best VPNs for Safari
Not all VPNs work with Safari, so I try and test each VPN myself to check for compatibility. There are also other aspects I consider before recommending a VPN to my readers. Here are some of the criteria I use when assessing VPNs for Safari:
- Sever network: I look at the number of servers available and their geographical coverage. This ensures that there are enough servers for busy periods and that you can use the VPN when traveling to different international destinations.
- Speeds: The speed of a VPN is incredibly important, especially if you are using it for streaming, gaming, or downloading. I run my own speed tests to ensure that the Safari VPN can maintain good speeds over an extended period of time.
- Privacy and security: Any decent VPN will have some security measures in place, but only the best services will include premium safety features. Things I look for include AES encryption, a n0-logs policy, and a reliable network kill switch.
- Compatibility: The VPN is tried and tested on Safari and is only recommended if it works perfectly on the browser. Following that, I also check the VPN on different browsers, operating systems, and devices. This is particularly important if you want to protect multiple devices.
Safari VPN FAQs
Can I get a free VPN for Safari?
Yes, you can, but I strongly suggest avoiding free VPNs. VPNs are intended to be tools that protect your privacy, not compromise it – and yet free VPNs often leave their users more exposed to security threats than they would otherwise be without using one. If an online service is free, that raises the question: how are they making their money?
Some providers profit from collecting and selling their users’ personally identifiable information to third parties without the users’ knowledge or consent. These third parties are usually advertisers. Free VPN providers have also been known to insert ads into the user’s browser, and some even come with malware. A reputable, paid VPN service protects your data online with a layer of encryption, but a large number of free VPNs don’t even include that. Without encryption, a VPN is hardly a VPN at all, and free providers lure their users into a false sense of security that can expose them to serious security threats.
Performance is an issue as well. Usually, free VPN providers lack the resources to invest in a large number of fast and secure servers, so there is a high chance that your internet browsing experience will be disrupted with frequent interruptions, buffering, and dropped connections. They operate only a handful of servers that tend to overflow with more users than the servers can handle, so speeds are typically slow, or at least unreliable.
If you're on a tight budget, then check out my list of cheap VPNs.
Browser extension or VPN app: Which is best?
Whenever you have the option between using a VPN browser extension or a VPN app, it is always better to go with the app. VPN browser extensions will only encrypt communications passing through your browser and leave every other internet-connected process on your computer wide open to monitoring. That means each of your unencrypted internet communications will use your real IP address and every computer you’re connected to will see it, including internet service providers.
Is Safari browser available for Windows?
To use Safari on a Windows operating system, you will need to download Safari 5.1.7. This version runs on Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10.
How do I uninstall and reinstall Safari on Mac?
Because Safari is built into the Mac operating system since OS X El Capitan (10.11), Safari can’t be uninstalled individually without the use of third-party tools. If you still want to uninstall it, download the free CleanMyMac X utility and follow these steps:
- 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.
To reinstall the browser, you will have to manually update Safari by performing the following:
- 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 included on many browsers is completely different from using a VPN. Private mode deletes cookies and trackers from your hard drive when you close the browser window, but your internet traffic remains unencrypted and exposes your data and IP address to monitoring by third parties. A VPN solves this problem by securing your traffic with a layer of encryption before it reaches the ISP and the servers of the websites you visit online.
Will a VPN allow me to browse anonymously on Safari?
If your VPN provider follows a no-logs policy and protects your traffic with a strong encryption protocol, then you’re on your way to anonymous browsing. Just make sure to use Safari’s private mode in combination with the VPN, as you could still be identified by a tracking cookie or another identifier if you use the VPN by itself.
Does Apple recommend a VPN for Safari?
Apple neither recommends nor advises against the use of VPNs – that decision is up to you. The Apple App Store contains a wide range of VPN apps available for download, including the ones on this list. All major VPNs are compatible with Mac and iOS platforms.
Contents [hide]
- The Best VPNs for Safari
- 1. NordVPN
- 2. Surfshark
- 3. ExpressVPN
- 4. CyberGhost
- 5. PrivateVPN
- 6. IPVanish
- 7. Private Internet Access
- 8. Atlas VPN
- Methodology: How I found the best VPNs for Safari
- Safari VPN FAQs
- Can I get a free VPN for Safari?
- Browser extension or VPN app: Which is best?
- Is Safari browser available for Windows?
- How do I uninstall and reinstall Safari on Mac?
- Is browsing in Safari's private mode the same as using a VPN?
- Will a VPN allow me to browse anonymously on Safari?
- Does Apple recommend a VPN for Safari?