Getting OpenVPN set up with Surfshark on your Mac can feel like a maze at first, but it’s totally doable, and I’ll show you exactly how. While Surfshark’s native Mac app is super user-friendly and perfect for most people, there are times when a manual OpenVPN setup is just what you need. Maybe you’re on an older macOS version that doesn’t fully support the app, or you need to configure your VPN on a router, or perhaps you just want a bit more control over your connection. Whatever your reason, into a manual OpenVPN connection with Surfshark on your Mac opens up a world of flexibility and robust security. By the time we’re done here, you’ll have a clear, step-by-step path to achieving a secure and stable connection, giving you peace of mind whether you’re working, streaming, or just browsing. It might seem like a bit more effort initially, but the benefits, especially for specific use cases, are absolutely worth it.

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Why Go Manual? Understanding OpenVPN with Surfshark on Your Mac

You might be wondering, “Why bother with a manual setup when Surfshark has a perfectly good app?” And that’s a fair question! For many, the native Surfshark VPN app for macOS is fantastic – it’s easy to use, packed with features like CleanWeb and Kill Switch, and usually gets you connected with a single click. But there are specific situations where a manual OpenVPN connection truly shines and gives you capabilities the app might not.

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More Control & Flexibility

One of the biggest reasons to opt for a manual OpenVPN setup is control. When you configure OpenVPN yourself, you’re directly managing the connection parameters. This is incredibly useful for:

Older macOS Versions: If your Mac is running an older operating system like anything before macOS 11, Big Sur, the native Surfshark app might not be fully supported, or some features might be missing. Manual OpenVPN setup can be a lifesaver here, ensuring you still get that crucial VPN protection.
Router Configurations: Want to protect every device on your home network without installing an app on each one? Setting up Surfshark’s OpenVPN directly on your compatible router is the way to go. This is often where OpenVPN really excels, as many routers natively support it, unlike some newer protocols.
Specific Network Environments: Sometimes, restrictive networks like at work or school, or even some public Wi-Fi spots might block standard VPN connections or ports used by native apps. A manual OpenVPN setup can often bypass these restrictions by allowing you to experiment with different ports or protocols like TCP, which might be less easily blocked. In fact, some users have found that OpenVPN through a third-party app like Tunnelblick successfully connects on public Wi-Fi where the native Surfshark app wouldn’t.

OpenVPN’s Robust Security

OpenVPN isn’t just an old workhorse. it’s a reliable open-source classic that’s been a cornerstone of VPN security for years. Its open-source nature means that its code is publicly available and constantly scrutinized by security experts worldwide. This transparency helps identify and fix vulnerabilities quickly, making it a highly trusted protocol.

It’s known for its strong encryption capabilities, typically using AES-256-bit encryption, which is the same standard used by governments and militaries. This level of encryption ensures your internet traffic remains private and protected from prying eyes, including hackers, your internet service provider, and other entities. What is the Use of Surfshark VPN? Your Guide to Online Freedom and Security

While OpenVPN is robust, it’s worth noting that even well-vetted protocols can have vulnerabilities. Microsoft, for instance, reported some OpenVPN vulnerabilities in March 2024, which were promptly patched with the release of OpenVPN 2.6.10. This highlights the ongoing commitment to security within the OpenVPN community and the importance of keeping your OpenVPN client updated. The audit by Trail of Bits in August 2023 also confirmed OpenVPN’s strong security posture, finding no significant flaws that could impact system confidentiality, integrity, or availability.

OpenVPN vs. WireGuard: Which Protocol for What?

When you’re looking at VPN protocols, especially with a service like Surfshark that offers several, you’ll often see OpenVPN compared to WireGuard. Both are excellent, but they have different strengths.

WireGuard: This is the newer, sleeker protocol on the block, known for its blazing speed and efficiency. It has a much smaller codebase around 4,000 lines of code compared to OpenVPN’s tens of thousands, which makes it easier to audit and less susceptible to certain security threats. If your main priority is raw speed for streaming, gaming, or large downloads, WireGuard is usually the faster choice. Surfshark generally provides faster speeds with WireGuard. However, it doesn’t naturally include obfuscation, meaning it might be more easily detected as a VPN, and it doesn’t offer a dynamic IP address by itself.
OpenVPN: While WireGuard might win on pure speed, OpenVPN is renowned for its stability, versatility, and deep configurability. It can be fine-tuned to your specific needs, offering a vast array of options for encryption and network settings. It’s often recommended for situations where stability and broad compatibility are paramount, especially when setting up a VPN on a router. It’s also often preferred in environments where you need to bypass stricter censorship, thanks to its ability to run on both UDP faster and TCP more reliable in restrictive networks ports.

For most users, Surfshark’s native app will automatically pick the best protocol often WireGuard for speed or OpenVPN for stability. But when you go manual, you get to make that choice, tailoring your connection to your exact requirements.

Before You Start: Essential Preparations

Before we jump into the setup, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need. Think of this as gathering your tools before starting a project. How to Turn Off Surfshark VPN: Your Go-To Guide for Every Device

Active Surfshark Subscription

This one’s a no-brainer! To use Surfshark’s servers, you’ll need an active subscription. If you don’t have one yet, you can sign up on their official website. Surfshark offers a robust network of over 3200 servers in 100 countries, a no-logs policy, and even allows unlimited simultaneous device connections, making it a great option for families or those with multiple gadgets.

Choosing Your OpenVPN Client: OpenVPN Connect vs. Tunnelblick

On macOS, you generally have two main choices for a third-party OpenVPN client:

OpenVPN Connect: This is the official client from OpenVPN, Inc. It’s straightforward, works across various platforms, and is generally reliable. The installation is simple, and it’s easy to import profiles.
Tunnelblick: This is a popular, free, open-source OpenVPN client specifically designed for macOS. Many Mac users prefer Tunnelblick because it integrates seamlessly with macOS, is actively maintained, and is very user-friendly when it comes to importing and managing multiple .ovpn configuration files. For this guide, we’ll primarily focus on Tunnelblick due to its widespread popularity and specific macOS optimizations, though the steps for OpenVPN Connect are quite similar.

Generating Your Surfshark OpenVPN Credentials

Your regular Surfshark email and password won’t work for a manual OpenVPN setup. You’ll need a unique set of service credentials a username and password specifically generated for manual VPN connections. Keep these handy, as you’ll need them every time you set up or connect to a new OpenVPN profile.

Downloading Surfshark OpenVPN Configuration Files .ovpn

These are the little files that tell your OpenVPN client how to connect to a specific Surfshark server. Each .ovpn file corresponds to a different server location e.g., “us_new_york.ovpn” or “de_berlin.ovpn”. You’ll also typically choose between UDP User Datagram Protocol and TCP Transmission Control Protocol versions of these files. Mastering Surfshark OVPN Files: Your Ultimate Guide to Manual Connections

UDP: Generally faster and recommended for most uses like streaming and browsing because it’s connectionless and prioritizes speed over guaranteed delivery.
TCP: Slower but more reliable because it establishes a connection and ensures all data packets arrive in order. This can be better for restrictive networks that might block UDP traffic, or if you’re experiencing unstable connections.

You’ll usually download these from your Surfshark account’s manual setup section.

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up OpenVPN Surfshark on macOS

Alright, let’s get your Mac connected with Surfshark’s OpenVPN. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be good to go.

Step 1: Grab Your Surfshark Manual Setup Credentials

First things first, you need those special credentials. Surfshark VPN: How Many Users and Devices Can You Really Connect?

Log in to your Surfshark account: Head over to the Surfshark website and sign in with your usual email and password.
Navigate to Manual Setup: Once logged in, look for a section like “VPN” or “Manual Setup” in your dashboard. You’ll typically find it under VPN > Manual Setup.
Select “Desktop or Mobile” then “OpenVPN”: You might see options for different devices or protocols. Choose “Desktop or mobile” or similar phrasing and then select the “OpenVPN” protocol.
Generate Credentials: You’ll see a section for credentials. If you haven’t done this before, click “Generate credentials.” This will give you a unique username and password. Important: These are not your regular Surfshark login details. Make sure to copy both the username and password and store them somewhere safe, like a secure note, as you’ll need them frequently. You might even want to keep this browser tab open for a moment.

Step 2: Download Surfshark OpenVPN Configuration Files .ovpn

Next, we need the server configuration files.

Go to the Locations tab: On the same “Manual Setup” page in your Surfshark account, you’ll find a “Locations” tab.
Choose your desired servers: Browse through the list of available server locations. Think about where you want your internet traffic to appear to originate from.
Download the .ovpn file: For each server you want to use, click the download icon often a down arrow. You’ll usually be asked to choose between UDP and TCP protocols. As mentioned, UDP is generally recommended for speed, so start with that. If you run into connection issues later, you can always try the TCP version for the same location. These files will download to your Mac’s Downloads folder or wherever your browser usually saves files. I’d suggest downloading a few different locations to give yourself options.

Step 3: Install Your Chosen OpenVPN Client Tunnelblick Recommended

Now, let’s get the software on your Mac that will use these .ovpn files.

For Tunnelblick Recommended:

Download Tunnelblick: Go to the official Tunnelblick website tunnelblick.net and download the latest stable version. Always download from the official source to ensure you get a legitimate and secure version.
Install Tunnelblick:
- Find the downloaded .dmg file in your Downloads folder and double-click it to open.
- A window will appear. Drag the Tunnelblick application icon into your Applications folder.
- Close the .dmg window, and you can usually drag the disk image icon from your desktop to the Trash to unmount it.
- Go to your Applications folder and double-click the Tunnelblick icon to launch it.
- The first time you open it, your Mac might ask if you’re sure you want to open an app downloaded from the internet. Click “Open.”
- Follow any on-screen prompts, which might include agreeing to a license agreement and setting initial preferences. When it asks if you “have configuration files,” select “I have configuration files”. You might need to enter your macOS password to grant necessary permissions.

For OpenVPN Connect Alternative:

Download OpenVPN Connect: Head to the official OpenVPN website openvpn.net/downloads/ and download the macOS installer. Make sure to select the correct installer for your Mac’s processor Intel or Apple Silicon.
Install OpenVPN Connect:
- Open the downloaded .dmg file.
- Run the installer package within. Click “Continue,” agree to the EULA, and click “Install.”
- Enter your macOS password when prompted to allow the installation.
- Once installed, open OpenVPN Connect from your Applications folder. You might need to click through a tutorial and agree to its EULA.

Step 4: Import Surfshark .ovpn Files into Your Client

This is where you tell your VPN client about the Surfshark servers you want to connect to. Surfshark obfuscation

For Tunnelblick:

Open Tunnelblick: If it’s not already open, click the Tunnelblick icon in your macOS menu bar it looks like a tunnel or sometimes a black-and-white icon.
Drag and Drop: Locate the .ovpn files you downloaded from Surfshark in Step 2. The easiest way to import them is to drag and drop each .ovpn file directly onto the Tunnelblick icon in your menu bar.
Install Configuration: Tunnelblick will ask if you want to install the configuration for “Only Me” or “All Users.” For most personal setups, “Only Me” is fine. If prompted, you’ll need to enter your macOS admin password to allow the installation. Repeat this for each .ovpn file you want to import.

For OpenVPN Connect:

Open OpenVPN Connect: Launch the application.
Upload File: In the OpenVPN Connect app, you’ll see an option like “Upload File” or a plus icon to add a new profile.
Drag and Drop or Browse: You can either drag and drop your .ovpn file directly into the app or click “Browse” to navigate to your Downloads folder and select the file.
Add Profile: Follow the prompts to add the profile.

Step 5: Connect to a Surfshark VPN Server

With the files imported, you’re just one click away from connecting!

Click the Tunnelblick icon: In your menu bar, click the Tunnelblick icon.
Select a server: A dropdown menu will show your imported Surfshark server locations. Click on the one you want to connect to. Surfshark VPN in the Netherlands: Your Digital Companion
Enter Credentials: A pop-up will appear asking for your Surfshark service username and password the ones you generated in Step 1. Enter them.
- Pro Tip: To avoid typing these every time, make sure to check the “Save in Keychain” boxes if available. This securely stores your credentials in macOS, so Tunnelblick can use them automatically next time.
Connect! Click “Connect.” The Tunnelblick icon will animate often turning yellow while connecting, then green when connected.
Open OpenVPN Connect: Launch the app.
Select profile: Your imported Surfshark server profile will be listed.
Connect: Click the toggle switch next to the profile name to connect. Surfshark VPN for NFL: Your Ultimate Guide to Uninterrupted Football Season
Enter Credentials: You’ll be prompted for your Surfshark service username and password. Check “Save Password” to store them securely if you wish.
Allow Connection: You may be prompted to allow OpenVPN Connect to make changes to your system to establish the VPN connection. Confirm this.

Step 6: Verify Your VPN Connection

You’re connected! But how do you know it’s working properly?

Check your IP address: Open your web browser and go to a site like surfshark.com/what-is-my-ip or simply search “what is my IP” on Google. Your displayed IP address should now match the location of the Surfshark server you connected to, not your actual physical location.
Perform a DNS leak test: Head to Surfshark’s website for their DNS leak test. This verifies that your DNS requests are also being routed through the VPN and not leaking your real location.
If both checks come back clean, congratulations! You’ve successfully set up OpenVPN with Surfshark on your Mac.

Troubleshooting Common OpenVPN Surfshark Mac Issues

Even with the best instructions, sometimes things don’t go perfectly. Here are some common issues you might run into and how to fix them.

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Connection Not Establishing

Double-check credentials: This is a super common one. Make sure you’re using the Surfshark service username and password from Step 1, not your regular Surfshark account login details. Even a single typo can stop it cold.
Try a different server: Sometimes a particular server might be overloaded or temporarily down. Try connecting to a different Surfshark server location, or even a different server in the same country.
Switch protocols UDP/TCP: If your connection keeps failing, especially on public or restricted networks, switch from UDP to TCP or vice-versa for the server’s .ovpn file. One protocol might be blocked while the other isn’t.
Check your internet connection: Make sure your basic internet connection is working before trying to connect the VPN.
Firewall or antivirus interference: Your Mac’s firewall or third-party antivirus software might be blocking the VPN connection. Try temporarily disabling them to see if that resolves the issue. If it does, you’ll need to add an exception for your OpenVPN client.
Interfering applications: Other VPN apps or even some network-monitoring software can conflict with your OpenVPN client. Make sure any other VPN software is completely disabled or uninstalled.

Slow Speeds

Change servers: The closer the server, usually the faster the speed. Try connecting to a Surfshark server closer to your physical location. Also, look for servers with lower load if your client shows that information.
Switch to WireGuard if possible: If speed is your absolute top priority and OpenVPN’s specific features aren’t critical for your current task, consider using Surfshark’s native app with the WireGuard protocol. It’s generally faster than OpenVPN.
Try UDP: Ensure you’re using the UDP protocol for OpenVPN, as it’s typically faster than TCP.
Check your local network: Sometimes, the slowdown isn’t the VPN’s fault. Check your Wi-Fi signal, router performance, or even other devices on your network hogging bandwidth.

DNS Leaks

Verify with Surfshark’s tools: Always use Surfshark’s dedicated IP and DNS leak test tools on their website after connecting to ensure everything is secure.
Re-import files: If you suspect a DNS leak, try deleting and re-importing your .ovpn configuration files.
Custom DNS: In some cases, manually setting custom DNS servers like Surfshark’s or other privacy-focused public DNS in your macOS network settings or within your OpenVPN client can help prevent leaks. In macOS, go to System Settings > Network, select your active connection, click “Details…”, then “DNS” and add DNS servers like 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1.

“System Extension Blocked” or Permissions Issues

macOS is very security-conscious, and sometimes installing new network software like a VPN client requires explicit permission.
If you see a “System Extension Blocked” message, go to System Settings or System Preferences on older macOS > Privacy & Security > Security. Look for a message like “System software from developer ‘OpenVPN Technologies, Inc.’ was blocked from loading” and click the “Allow” button next to it. You might need to authenticate with your macOS password or Touch ID.
Sometimes, after installing a VPN client, you also need to allow it to add VPN configurations. Again, this usually appears as a prompt that guides you to System Settings > VPN, where you’ll need to authenticate and “Allow” the changes.

If you’ve tried everything and are still stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to Surfshark’s customer support. They’re usually available 24/7 and can provide specific guidance for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Surfshark VPN OpenVPN secure?

Yes, absolutely! OpenVPN is widely regarded as one of the most secure VPN protocols available. Its open-source nature means security experts constantly audit its code for vulnerabilities, ensuring transparency and quick resolution of any issues. Surfshark specifically uses strong encryption like AES-256 with OpenVPN to protect your data. While no software is entirely immune to vulnerabilities, OpenVPN’s commitment to security, as shown by rapid patching of issues like those reported by Microsoft in 2024, makes it a very reliable choice.

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How do I update OpenVPN config files for Surfshark on Mac?

Surfshark’s .ovpn configuration files generally remain stable, but if a server changes or you want to connect to a new location, you’ll need to download updated or new files. Simply repeat Step 2 from our guide: log into your Surfshark account, go to the “Manual Setup” section, navigate to “Locations,” and download the latest .ovpn files for your desired servers. Then, import these new files into your OpenVPN client like Tunnelblick as you did in Step 4. You might need to remove older, unused configurations to keep things tidy, especially if a server has been retired.

Can I use OpenVPN for router setup with Surfshark?

Yes, using OpenVPN for router setup with Surfshark is a popular and effective method to protect all devices on your network simultaneously. Many routers support OpenVPN natively, allowing you to configure your Surfshark connection directly on the router’s firmware. This means every device connected to that router your Mac, smart TV, game consoles, etc. will be automatically protected by the VPN without needing individual app installations. You’ll download specific .ovpn files and typically copy your Surfshark service credentials into the router’s VPN client settings.

Why isn’t my OpenVPN connecting to Surfshark on my Mac?

There are several common reasons for connection issues. First, double-check that you’re using the correct Surfshark service username and password the manual setup credentials, not your regular login. Next, try connecting to a different Surfshark server location. You should also try switching between UDP and TCP protocols for your OpenVPN connection, as one might be blocked on your current network. Ensure no other VPN software or aggressive firewall/antivirus programs are interfering. Finally, check your Mac’s System Settings > Privacy & Security to make sure you’ve granted all necessary permissions for your OpenVPN client to run. If all else fails, a quick chat with Surfshark’s customer support can often pinpoint the exact problem.

What’s the difference between OpenVPN UDP and TCP for Surfshark?

When you download Surfshark’s OpenVPN configuration files, you’ll often see options for UDP and TCP. The main difference is how they handle data transmission:

UDP User Datagram Protocol: This is generally faster because it’s a “connectionless” protocol. It sends data packets without first establishing a formal connection or guaranteeing delivery. This makes it great for applications where speed is crucial, like streaming, gaming, and general browsing. It’s usually the recommended default.
TCP Transmission Control Protocol: This is a “connection-oriented” protocol. It establishes a reliable connection and ensures that all data packets are delivered, in order, by re-transmitting any lost packets. While more reliable and better for restrictive networks that might block UDP, this overhead can make it slightly slower. If you’re having trouble connecting with UDP, or your connection is unstable, switching to a TCP configuration might help.

Can I use Surfshark’s native Mac app instead of OpenVPN?

Absolutely! For the vast majority of users, Surfshark’s native app for macOS is the most convenient and recommended way to use their VPN. It offers a user-friendly interface, one-click connection, and integrates all of Surfshark’s features like CleanWeb ad/malware blocker, Kill Switch prevents data leaks if VPN drops, and auto-connect options. The native app also typically supports modern protocols like WireGuard, which often provides faster speeds than OpenVPN. A manual OpenVPN setup is primarily for specific scenarios, such as older macOS versions, router configurations, or bypassing highly restrictive networks where the app might struggle. Surfshark VPN: Your Gateway to Unlimited Device Protection

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