VPN, proxy and filters

Mullvad on Mac: check the VPN and fix connection problems

When Mullvad connects but a site does not load, check the VPN status, route and app settings before changing them.

Applies to: macOS and the current app version; managed Macs can have organization policies.Checked: 2 November 2026

Symptoms

  • Mullvad says it is connected, but a site or app does not load.
  • The Mac has no internet after the VPN changes state.

Likely causes

  • Kill switch. Mullvad says its kill switch blocks internet after a connection failure while it is connecting or connected. Lockdown mode also blocks after disconnect or quit. Mullvad notes that apps excluded by split tunneling can still reach the internet.
  • DNS. VPN settings has Use custom DNS server. Mullvad warns a custom resolver can affect privacy. Its Mac guide says another DNS app can prevent Mullvad setting system DNS.
  • IPv6. Mullvad documents In-tunnel IPv6 in VPN settings. It says Mac users normally should enable it, and the ISP must also provide IPv6 for an IPv6 exit address.
  • Other possible causes. A Wi-Fi sign-in page, DNS failure, another filter or an unavailable service can also interrupt a connection.

How to check

  1. Open Mullvad and check its connection state and any warning.

  2. Check whether another website works. On public Wi-Fi, complete any required network sign-in.

  3. On a managed Mac, ask your administrator before changing VPN or security settings.

How to fix it

  1. In Mullvad, check VPN settings and whether Lockdown mode is on. Choose the setting that matches your intent.

  2. If the connection still fails, follow the provider support guide linked below.

With Kilobat

  1. Health > Where traffic leaves shows whether the default route uses a VPN. A split route does not mean every destination uses it.

  2. With the VPN connected, choose Check for Leaks in Health > Where traffic leaves or Settings > Network.

  3. The test checks DNS resolver paths, IPv6 routing and UDP using STUN. A skipped check is not a pass.

  4. It contacts external services, which see your address. It cannot run a browser WebRTC test or prove every app is private.

  5. Run the same test in Terminal.

    kilobat vpn leaks

Questions

Does Mullvad block after I disconnect?

Its optional Lockdown mode does. The built-in kill switch covers connection failures while connecting or connected.

Does a VPN status prove all apps are private?

No. A route or leak test describes the paths checked at that moment. It does not establish privacy for every app.

Sources

Checked on 2 November 2026.