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macOS includes several built-in security features that help protect devices and user data. In some cases, these settings can also interfere with network connectivity, either by design or due to misconfiguration.
The table below outlines the most common macOS security features that may block or disrupt Internet access, their typical impact, and quick troubleshooting steps to isolate and resolve issues.
How to test macOS security features
The fastest isolation method is to test with a new user account, Firewall off, VPN/Private Relay off, and clean Wi-Fi. If connectivity works there, gradually re-enable features to identify the blocker.
| Feature | Details | Troubleshooting Steps |
|---|---|---|
| FileVault |
Full-disk encryption. Network services disabled until user login; no Wi-Fi/Ethernet pre-boot. |
Confirm login first; check if network resumes post-login. For remote access needs, configure “FileVault Institutional Recovery Key” + MDM preboot settings. |
| Firewall (Application Firewall) |
Block unsolicited incoming connections. Can block legitimate app traffic; may drop DNS/UDP packets; “Stealth Mode” blocks ping & service discovery. |
Go to System Settings > Network > Firewall. Temporarily disable Firewall or Stealth Mode; test connectivity. Whitelist affected apps. |
| Network Filters / Content Filters |
Extensions or profiles that filter traffic. Misconfiguration can block all traffic or break VPN/proxies. |
Check System Settings > Network > Filters. Disable suspicious filters one by one and reboot. |
| System Integrity Protection (SIP) & Gatekeeper |
Protect system files, restrict unsigned apps. Can prevent VPN/security agents from loading → no connectivity. |
Check Console logs for extension load failures. Ensure app is signed/updated. If enterprise, confirm MDM policy allows it. |
| Apple Private Relay (iCloud+) |
Encrypt & relay browsing traffic. If relay is blocked/unavailable, Safari may show no Internet. |
Apple Private Relay is automatically blocked by DNSFilter. |
| VPN Profiles (built-in or MDM-enforced) |
Route traffic through VPN. If VPN server unreachable, all traffic may fail. |
Disable VPN temporarily in System Settings > Network. If traffic flows, check VPN server availability. |
| Parental Controls / Screen Time |
Restrict apps, websites, usage. May block browsing or apps. |
Go to System Settings > Screen Time. Review content/app restrictions. Temporarily disable to test. |
| Wi-Fi Security (Private Address) |
Randomize MAC for privacy. May cause captive portal/enterprise Wi-Fi auth to fail. |
On Wi-Fi settings, toggle Private Wi-Fi Address off. Reconnect to see if Internet returns. |
| MDM / Config Profiles |
Enforce enterprise policies. Can disable interfaces, force VPN, or block domains. |
Check System Settings > Privacy & Security > Profiles. Review/remove restrictive profiles (if permitted). Test again. |
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