Guide
WireGuard VPN for Mac — fast tunnel without config files
WireGuard is the fastest mainstream VPN protocol, and FollowNet uses it on Mac without asking you to manage keys or config files. When WireGuard is blocked, the same app switches to AmneziaWG, Hysteria2 or VLESS Reality.
Why WireGuard on a Mac
WireGuard has a small, modern codebase and uses current cryptography. In practice that means fast handshakes, low overhead and good speed on both Wi‑Fi and wired connections. On a MacBook it also handles sleep and network changes well: open the lid on a new network and the tunnel is back in seconds.
WireGuard without config files
With a plain WireGuard client you have to generate keys, download a .conf file per server and import it. FollowNet does that for you: pick a location in the app or menu bar and it sets up the WireGuard peer automatically. Switching servers is one click instead of another config import.
When WireGuard is blocked: AmneziaWG and others
Some networks — corporate firewalls, hotel gateways and certain countries — recognise and block standard WireGuard traffic. AmneziaWG keeps WireGuard’s speed but changes how its packets look, so they are harder to filter. Hysteria2 runs over QUIC and copes well with lossy links; VLESS Reality disguises the connection as ordinary HTTPS. Smart Connect tries them in turn when WireGuard does not pass traffic.
Choosing the protocol yourself
In Settings → VPN Protocol you can leave Smart (recommended) or lock WireGuard, IKEv2, AmneziaWG, Hysteria2 or VLESS Reality. Lock WireGuard if you are on a known good network and want the most predictable speed. Use Speed Test in the app to compare protocols on the same network instead of guessing.
Protocols in FollowNet for Mac
| Protocol | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| WireGuard | Speed on normal networks | Can be blocked by strict firewalls |
| IKEv2 | Stable reconnects when switching networks | Easier to detect and block |
| AmneziaWG | Networks that filter WireGuard | Slightly more overhead |
| Hysteria2 | Lossy or congested links (QUIC) | UDP can be blocked on some Wi‑Fi |
| VLESS Reality | Heavily filtered networks | Not the fastest on calm networks |
Key points
- WireGuard set up automatically — no keys or .conf files
- AmneziaWG, Hysteria2 and VLESS Reality when WireGuard is blocked
- Smart Connect picks a protocol that actually passes traffic
- Available on Free and Premium
FAQ
Does FollowNet use WireGuard on Mac?
Yes. WireGuard is one of the protocols in the Mac app. Smart mode uses it when it works on your network, or you can lock it in Settings → VPN Protocol.
Do I need the official WireGuard app as well?
No. FollowNet includes its own WireGuard implementation and configures servers for you.
What is the difference between WireGuard and AmneziaWG?
AmneziaWG is based on WireGuard but changes the look of its packets so networks that filter WireGuard are less likely to block it.