Getting Started with Alpaca on Mac

Last updated: 2026-03-15

Welcome to Alpaca

Alpaca is a lightweight Mac app designed to help filter ads, trackers, and risky websites across your entire Mac. It works with every browser and app — no extensions or plugins needed.

Video Walkthrough

See the full setup process — from installation through to enabling the network extensions.

Quick Start

Download Alpaca

Head to the download page and click Download for Mac. The installer is a standard macOS .pkg file, verified safe by Apple.

Run the Installer

Open the downloaded .pkg file and follow the on-screen prompts. You will review the license, click Install, and enter your Mac password to authorize. The installation takes just a few seconds. See the Installation Guide for a detailed walkthrough with screenshots.

Approve the Network Extensions

On first launch, Alpaca will ask you to enable two network extensions — the DNS Proxy and the Content Filter. For each one, click Open System Settings and toggle the switch to enable it. This is a one-time setup required by macOS. See Network Extension Setup for detailed steps.

You're All Set

That's it! Alpaca now runs quietly in your menu bar, helping to filter threats across all your apps and browsers.

What Happens Next?

Once installed, Alpaca:

Runs in the background — no action needed from you
Updates filter lists automatically — protection stays current
Uses minimal resources — designed to be lightweight and battery-friendly

Click the Alpaca icon in your menu bar anytime to check status, pause protection, or access settings.

Need Help?

Having trouble with installation? See the Installation Guide
Need to approve the Network Extensions? See Network Extension Setup
Website not loading? Check Troubleshooting