Tunnelblick
What Tunnelblick is
Tunnelblick is free macOS software for controlling OpenVPN client and server connections. It can connect a Mac securely to a remote network or the Internet through an OpenVPN server, but Tunnelblick does not provide that server access. OpenVPN, easy-rsa, and tun/tap drivers are bundled, so separate installation is unnecessary. Authentication supports usernames and passwords, plus challenge/response methods with scripts for hardware tokens or biometric devices. Users can save credentials in the macOS Keychain, and AppleScript can connect, disconnect, or list configurations. A kill switch is included. Tunnelblick says it has no ads, affiliate marketers, or tracking and does not retain users’ IP addresses or other information. Downloads include hashes and GnuPG signatures, while its updater uses HTTPS and signed updates. Current stable and beta downloads are notarized universal builds for macOS 13 or later on Intel and Apple Silicon. It is GPL version 2 free software.
Who it suits
Tunnelblick suits Mac users who already have access to an OpenVPN server and want a graphical controller. It also fits users needing authentication options, scripting, and a kill switch.
What it does well
- Free GPL version 2 software
- OpenVPN components bundled
- Kill switch included
- AppleScript automation supported
- No ads or tracking stated
What to know first
- VPN server access required separately
- macOS 13 or later for listed builds
- No free trial because software is free
Plans
| Plan | Billed and limits | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tunnelblick | Free software; VPN server access required separately | Free |
As tunnelblick.net lists them, read 12 Oct 2026. The maker's own page has the final word.
Verdict
Tunnelblick provides a focused macOS interface for OpenVPN connections, with bundled components and several authentication and automation options. Users must arrange VPN server access separately and should check the listed macOS requirement.
Facts from Tunnelblick's own pages
- Authentication
- Tunnelblick supports username/password and challenge/response authentication, including scripts for hardware tokens or biometric devices. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Automation
- AppleScript can connect, disconnect, or list Tunnelblick configurations. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Bundled software
- The application includes OpenVPN, easy-rsa, and tun/tap drivers, so no additional installation is necessary. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Credential storage
- Users can choose to save VPN usernames and passwords in the macOS Keychain. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Download security
- The project publishes file hashes and GnuPG signatures to help users verify downloads, and its built-in updater uses HTTPS and digitally signed update downloads. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Free plan
- Yes · tunnelblick.net, 22 Sept 2026
- Kill switch
- Its kill switch can disable all network access if a VPN disconnects, but it is not a firewall and does not limit traffic to the VPN. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- License
- Tunnelblick is free software licensed under GNU General Public License version 2. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Platform requirements
- The latest stable and beta downloads listed are notarized universal builds for macOS 13 or later, supporting Intel and Apple Silicon. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Privacy
- The project says it has no ads, affiliate marketers, or tracking and does not keep users’ IP addresses or other information. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- Tunnelblick is a macOS GUI for controlling OpenVPN client and server connections. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Support
- Tunnelblick directs users to their VPN provider for service support and provides a discussion group for Tunnelblick questions. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- Use cases
- Tunnelblick can connect a Mac securely to a remote network or the Internet through an OpenVPN server. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
- VPN access
- Users need access to a VPN server, which Tunnelblick itself does not provide. · tunnelblick.net, 12 Oct 2026
Where Tunnelblick stands on Freedom251
- VPN services#31 of 88