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Install and set up OpenVPN Connect on a Mac

After these steps you connect your Mac to the company network with one click and disconnect just as easily. The guide applies to OpenVPN Connect 3.9 and later on Macs with Apple silicon or an Intel processor running macOS 12 to macOS 27.

Platform
macOS
Applies to
OpenVPN Connect 3.9 for macOS (macOS 12 Monterey to macOS 27 Golden Gate)
Time needed
approx. 10 Min.
Level
Beginner
OpenVPN Connect auf dem Mac installieren und einrichten GC

What you need

  • The configuration file with the .ovpn extension from your IT
  • User name and password for the VPN. Your IT provides both.
  • Your Mac password to allow the installation
  • A working internet connection

  1. Step 1: Download the installer

    In your browser, open the official download page openvpn.net/client and choose «macOS» among the other platforms.

    Download the OpenVPN Connect installer. The file is saved to the «Downloads» folder.

    Note: Only download OpenVPN Connect from openvpn.net or via a link from your IT.

  2. Step 2: Have the configuration file ready

    Save the configuration file with the .ovpn extension that you received from your IT to the «Downloads» folder as well.

    The file contains the connection details for your company network. Do not pass it on.

  3. Step 3: Open the installer file

    In the Finder, open the «Downloads» folder and double-click the OpenVPN Connect installer file you downloaded.

  4. Step 4: Choose the right version

    The package contains two installers. Double-click «Mac with Apple Silicon» if your Mac has an Apple chip. This applies to most Macs from late 2020 onwards.

    Only choose «Mac with an Intel processor» on older Macs with an Intel processor.

    To see which chip is installed, open «About This Mac» from the Apple menu and look at the «Chip» or «Processor» line.

    • Mac with Apple Silicon (click here)
    • Mac with an Intel processor
    Simplified sketch, the actual screen may look slightly different.

  5. Step 5: Run the installation

    Follow the installer, accept the licence agreement and enter your Mac password when prompted.

    Close the installer at the end. You can confirm the question about moving the installer file to the Trash.

  6. Step 6: Start OpenVPN Connect

    Open the «Applications» folder and launch OpenVPN Connect.

    Click through the introductory screens and confirm the data usage policy.

    Allow the system extension and the VPN configuration when macOS asks. Without this approval the app cannot connect.

  7. Step 7: Import the profile

    In the «Downloads» folder, double-click the configuration file with the .ovpn extension.

    OpenVPN Connect shows the «Import Profile» window. Confirm with «OK».

    Alternatively, drag the file straight into the app window.

    • company.ovpn
    • OK (click here)
    Simplified sketch, the actual screen may look slightly different.

  8. Step 8: Enter your user name

    In the «Username» field, enter the personal user name you received from your IT. It often takes the form firstname.lastname.

    You can change the profile name in the «Profile Name» field if you wish, for example to your company's name.

    • Profile Name Company VPN
    • Username firstname.lastname (click here)
    • Connect
    Simplified sketch, the actual screen may look slightly different.

  9. Step 9: Connect

    Click «Connect» and enter the password you received from your IT.

    The connection is established within a few seconds. The switch next to the profile turns green and the app shows the connection as active.

  10. Step 10: End the connection

    Click the green switch next to the profile to disconnect.

    To connect again, simply click the switch once more.

    • Company VPN (click here)
    Simplified sketch, the actual screen may look slightly different.

Frequently asked questions

Which version do I choose, Apple Silicon or Intel?
If «About This Mac» shows a «Chip» line with a name such as M1, M2 or later, choose Apple Silicon. If it shows «Processor» with an Intel processor, choose the Intel version.
The connection fails. What should I check?
Check user name and password for typos and make sure the system extension is allowed in System Settings. If the connection still fails, the profile may be out of date. In that case contact your IT.
Do I need to switch the connection on in the office too?
Usually not. In the office you are already on the company network. If your IT also uses the VPN there, the connection works the same way.

Stuck on a step?

Start a remote support session and we will take a look at your screen together with you.

Remote Support (Mac) Helpdesk (Windows) info@guycolle.com

Sources

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