FreeVPNNet

How to set up OpenVPN on macOS

OpenVPN works on almost every network. You import a profile file (.ovpn) and sign in with the username and password from your configuration page.

Last reviewed

What you need

  • An active OpenVPN configuration from this site
  • The profile file (.ovpn)
  • Your username and password (shown on the configuration page)

App

OpenVPN Connect

Get it from openvpn.net

Official source only.

Where each detail goes

Account details and the matching fields in the app
On your configuration pageIn the app or settings
Profile file (.ovpn)Import Profile → Upload file (server and port are inside)
UsernameUsername
PasswordPassword (tick "Save password" if you want)
Server / Port / TransportAlready in the profile — no need to type them

Steps

  1. Download and install OpenVPN Connect for macOS from openvpn.net (link above).

    Illustration of step 1: Download and install OpenVPN Connect for macOS from openvpn.net (link above).
    Illustration — your app may look slightly different.
  2. Download the .ovpn profile from your configuration page.

    Illustration of step 2: Download the .ovpn profile from your configuration page.
    Illustration — your app may look slightly different.
  3. Choose Import Profile → Upload file and select the file.

    Illustration of step 3: Choose Import Profile → Upload file and select the file.
    Illustration — your app may look slightly different.
  4. Enter your username and password, click Connect, and allow the VPN configuration if macOS asks.

    Illustration of step 4: Enter your username and password, click Connect, and allow the VPN configuration if macOS asks.
    Illustration — your app may look slightly different.

Check that it works

OpenVPN Connect shows "Connected" with a timer. Search the web for "what is my IP"; the location should match your server country.

Disconnect

Click the switch next to the profile.

Troubleshooting

AUTH_FAILED

The username or password is wrong, or the configuration has expired or was revoked. Copy both again from your configuration page (use the copy buttons to avoid typos).

Stuck on "Connecting…"

The network may block UDP. Try another Wi-Fi or mobile data, or use a V2Ray or SSH configuration, which run on port 443.

Profile won't import

Make sure you downloaded the file itself (ending in .ovpn), not the page. Download it again from your configuration page.