If you’re setting up a VPN connection, you’ll often come across the term “pre shared key” or “VPN shared secret.” This guide explains what it means, how to set it up, and what to do if you lose it — so you can get your VPN running smoothly on your Mac.
What is a pre shared key VPN, or what is a pre-shared key for VPN?
A VPN pre shared key (also called VPN shared secret, VPN PSK, shared key, or preshared key) is like a password that secures your VPN connection. This IPsec pre shared key is configured on your VPN gateway — such as a firewall or router — and must match on your device to establish a secure VPN tunnel.
Without the correct key, your device cannot connect, ensuring that your VPN connection stays protected from unauthorized access.
Note: Some VPN gateways require the shared secret key to contain up to 512 alphanumeric characters. Check your device’s manual or use a pre shared key generator tool if needed.
How to Set Up a Pre Shared Key
VPN Tracker makes setting up your VPN simple and secure. It provides step-by-step setup guides for all major VPN gateway manufacturers, showing you exactly how to:
- Create and configure a pre shared key or shared secret key on your firewall or router
- Enter the VPN PSK on your Mac in VPN Tracker
- Check that your VPN connection is working securely
Browse VPN setup guides here
To get started, download VPN Tracker here: Download VPN Tracker
How to Recover a Lost Pre Shared Key
If you’ve lost your pre shared key or VPN shared secret, here’s how you can recover it:
- Check VPN Tracker Personal Safe: If you saved the connection in your Personal Safe, you can redownload it with the key.
- Search Your Mac Keychain: Go to Applications > Utilities > Keychain Access, search for “Shared Secret,” and find your saved VPN PSKs.
- Restore from Backup: If you use Time Machine Backup, you can try restoring an older connection version that contains the pre shared key.
- Check Your Firewall or Contact Your VPN Administrator: Refer to your device manual or ask your network administrator to retrieve the shared key from your VPN gateway or firewall.
Need help with your VPN setup?
Visit VPN Tracker — the #1 VPN client for Mac for expert tools and guides to get your VPN running smoothly.