Public Wi-Fi and privacy

iCloud Private Relay breaks some websites

iCloud Private Relay sends Safari traffic through two relays. Sites that depend on your IP address can then work differently.

Applies to: Private Relay needs an iCloud+ or Apple One subscription. It is not available in all countries or regions. Steps are for macOS 13 Ventura and later.Checked: 29 October 2026

Symptoms

  • A site asks for extra steps to sign in, or shows a challenge page.
  • A site shows content for the wrong region.
  • A site works in another browser but not in Safari.
  • A message says that a network is not compatible with Private Relay.

Likely causes

  • The site uses your IP address. Apple says that sites that use IP filtering, monitoring or rate limits can try to block Private Relay.
  • Location from the IP address. Private Relay gives a temporary IP address, so the location can be less exact.
  • The network does not support it. Some networks block Private Relay.
  • Other network software. Apple says that a VPN or internet filter software can stop Private Relay from working.

How to check

  1. Choose Apple menu > System Settings. Click your name, then iCloud, then Private Relay.

  2. Look at the state of Private Relay and the IP Address Location option.

  3. In Safari, choose View > Reload and Show IP Address. If the site now works, Private Relay is the cause.

How to fix it

  1. For one site, use View > Reload and Show IP Address in Safari. This is only for the current page load.

  2. For local content, set IP Address Location to Maintain general location.

  3. For one network, turn off Limit IP address tracking in the network details. See Limit IP address tracking on a Mac.

  4. To turn off Private Relay for a short time, choose Turn Off Until Tomorrow.

  5. If a VPN or filter app stops Private Relay, turn off that app or remove it.

Questions

Does Private Relay hide my IP address from my network provider?

No. Apple says that your network provider and the first relay can see your IP address. They cannot see which site you visit.

Why is my speed test slower with Private Relay on?

Apple says that speed tests can show lower results, because Private Relay uses a single connection.

Does Private Relay work like a VPN?

No. Apple designed it to protect Safari browsing. It is not a VPN for all apps.

Sources

Sources checked on 29 October 2026. Man pages are the ones installed with macOS; open one with man <name> in Terminal.