To set up a Private VPN on a Mac,consider the following organized approach:

Choose a VPN Provider

• OpenVPN: A free, open-source option with a firewall feature.
• Tor: A privacy-focused service known for anonymity.

OpenVPN Setup

• Download: Visit https://openvpn.org/ and install the server version.
• Install: After installation, set up a username and password.
• Firewall: Enable a firewall on your system to block your computer from a remote server.
• Test Connection: Connect to a server to test your credentials and ensure secure connection.

Tor Setup

• Download: Use the Tor online tool at https://www.tor.org/ and select the "Server" option.
• Access: Use a web browser to connect and browse the Tor network.
• Security: Ensure your public IP is not within the listening range of the server.

Consider Security and Scalability

• OpenVPN: Configureable for multiple connections and supports a browser extension.
• Tor: Offers anonymity but may require a subscription or web-based access.

User Interface and Best Practices

• OpenVPN: Graphical interface and user-friendly features.
• Tor: Offers command-line tools for automation if needed.

Alternatives and Cost Comparison

• Alternatives: Consider Wpa3VPN or VPNstack for different features and costs.
• Cost: Compare pricing plans for OpenVPN and Tor to determine budget needs.

Passive vs. Active VPN

• Passive: Better privacy, connecting over a public connection.
• Active: Private connection, offering anonymity.

Avoid Redundancy

• Check if the VPN server is accessible from your home network to avoid unnecessary security measures.

Troubleshooting

• Look into server listening range settings and ensure your public IP is not blocked.

Conclusion

• Choose based on your security requirements, privacy needs, and budget. Consider both OpenVPN and Tor, and ensure you're using the correct settings for your remote server access.

By following these steps, you can effectively set up a Private VPN on your Mac, ensuring both security and convenience.