The MacOS is an exclusive OS for Mac users that is known for security. It has advanced privacy and password protections, screen auto-locks, FileVault encryption, and the iconic Mac firewall that protects you from all kinds of dangers. But even with these advanced features, there is still more room to improve your Mac’s overall security, especially when browsing the internet. That’s where a proxy server can help.
In this blog, we are going to look at how proxy servers can combine with MacOS security to give you enhanced protection each time you browse.
Combining Security With Region-Specific Content
The internet is very big, containing loads of information some of which are tailored for specific regions and audiences. This means not all content can be accessed easily from every point of the globe. However, many of us find this frustrating as we may need specific content to gather data for our businesses, studies, and so on. Luckily, when the internet creates barriers it also leaves a door for counter solutions, and in such cases, people use a proxy server to access region-specific content.
A proxy server uses a virtual IP address to connect to the host website by masking your original IP address. This is particularly useful if you are looking for more data points for your research or looking for some incentives that are available in only that particular region.
For example, you can utilize a US proxy server if you are looking to access exclusive content or find deals or discounts that are only available in the US. The proxy server will help you connect to the US website and bypass any restrictions that may block you otherwise. Since your original IP address is not used, you can browse the internet with an anonymous identity without being affected by any malicious attacks.
Now, how do proxy servers add more value to Apple’s operating system besides helping its users browse the internet without limits? When we talk about hiding an IP address, there is a significant security factor beneath. This is an extensive topic for research later, but let’s acknowledge that although one of Apple’s core values is user safety, it doesn’t mean MacOS provides 100% built-in security. Using extra measures can always be beneficial to ensure less of your information is left on the internet after you shut down your laptop.
Also Read: How to Configure Your Own Home VPN Server
Configuring Proxy Servers On MacOS
Before we go more into the benefits of using proxies along with a macOS, you need to know how to set it up first. It’s easy to configure proxy servers on MacOS – just follow these steps:
- Begin by selecting “System Preferences” from the Apple menu. Next, find and click “Network” to access your network settings.
- Choose your active internet connection, then proceed by clicking on “Advanced.”
- Go to the “Proxies” tab and choose the appropriate proxy protocol (HTTP, HTTPS, or SOCKS).
- Enter the server address and port number as provided by your proxy service. If your proxy requires authentication, you’ll also need to enter your username and password in the indicated fields.
- Save the settings and reconnect to apply changes.
MacOS And Proxy Automation
MacOS can also help with automatic proxy configuration with the help of tools like AppleScript and Automator. Here you can automatically switch between different proxy configurations based on specific triggers like connecting to a network or when accessing a specific site. This can save you time instead of manually switching between different proxies.
For example, if you are browsing a website that handles sensitive information, you can use a secure proxy. If you are looking to browse casually, the browser will automatically switch to a fast proxy. You also don’t have to manually update your proxy since these automation tools also look for updates and apply them.
You can enable proxy automation by opening the Automator app and running a script within the run shell. Save the script and run it whenever needed to automatically switch between configurations.
Also Read: How to Trace Email IP Address and Identify Sender?
Using MacOS Firewall And Proxies for Layered Security
The macOS Firewall is a built-in security feature exclusive for Mac users that looks at incoming connections to ensure only the trusted ones have access to your system. The macOS itself is very hard to exploit because of its Unix-based system. When you combine that with the firewall, you have more administrative control over what programs can use their services.
However, when you add a proxy server to the list, you create another layer of security that can hide your IP address and redirect traffic to a secure point. This makes it particularly useful for tasks like securing financial transactions, managing confidential business data, or accessing sensitive work networks remotely.
To Wrap It Up
The macOS is known for its security capabilities, but when you combine that with proxy servers, you are setting your system up for enhanced protection. So the next time when you browse the internet using your Mac, always remember to set up a proxy from a reliable provider to browse safely.
