Turn on the VPN in Desktop Security

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) keeps your personal information private by encrypting your traffic as you browse the internet. It can also hide your location, making it seem like you are in a different country or region. Using a VPN helps prevent threats from figuring out who you are, where you are, and what you’re browsing.

To turn on the VPN feature you'll need a subscription that includes VPN. You can upgrade your subscription from your Malwarebytes account. 

Enable VPN on a Windows device

1. Open the Desktop Security app.
2. In the Online Privacy section, toggle VPN ON.
3. You've successfully connected when you see Your connection is Private.

Enable VPN on a macOS device using Big Sur 11 through Sonoma 14

1. Open the Desktop Security app.
2. In the Online Privacy section, toggle VPN ON. A pop-up window explaining how to give Malwarebytes permission on your Mac device appears.
3. Click Allow permission. 
4. Click Open System Preferences. Your System Settings or System Preferences opens automatically.
5. Click Allow next to the message System software from application 'Malwarebytes' was blocked from loading.
   
   • If there is a padlock: At the bottom left of your settings screen, click the padlock icon and enter your Mac username and password to unlock and change your settings.
   • If there is no padlock: You will be prompted to enter your computer username and password to allow Privacy & Security to modify your settings. Then click Modify Settings.
6. A pop-up appears asking for permission to filter network content. Click Allow.
7. You've successfully connected when you see Your connection is Private.

Enable VPN on a macOS device using macOS Sequoia 15

1. Click the apple icon in the menu bar, then click System Settings.
2. Click General in the side bar.
3. Click Login Items & Extensions.
4. Click the information icon next to Endpoint Security Extensions.
5. In the modal, click the toggle next to Malwarebytes.
6. A prompt appears asking you to allow System Extension permissions. Enter your computer password and click OK.
7. Click Done.
8. A prompt appears asking for permission to filter network content. Click Allow.
9. You've successfully connected when you see Your connection is Private.