How to Set Up and Use iCloud Private Relay

In this tutorial, we will guide you step-by-step on setting up and effectively using iCloud Private Relay. iCloud Private Relay is a feature introduced by Apple that enhances the privacy and security of your internet connection. By using Private Relay, your online activities are encrypted and routed through two separate internet relays, making it difficult for third parties to track your browsing.

Prerequisites

To set up and use iCloud Private Relay, you will need the following:

1. An Apple device running iOS 15 or macOS Monterey (the version that introduced iCloud Private Relay).
2. An active iCloud account.

Now let's dive into the steps involved in setting up and using iCloud Private Relay.

Step 1: Update to the Latest Operating System

Ensure that your Apple device is running either iOS 15 or macOS Monterey. If you are not on the latest version, follow these steps to update your device:

1. On iOS:
   • Open the Settings app.
   • Tap on General.
   • Select Software Update.
   • If an update is available, tap on Download and Install.
2. On macOS:
   • Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner.
   • Select System Preferences.
   • Choose Software Update.
   • If an update is available, click on Update Now.

Note: Make sure you have a stable internet connection during the update process.

Step 2: Enable iCloud Private Relay

Once your device is running the latest operating system, you can enable iCloud Private Relay with these instructions:

1. On iOS:

   • Open the Settings app.
   • Tap on your Apple ID at the top of the screen.
   • Select iCloud.
   • Scroll down and choose Private Relay.
   • Toggle the switch to On.

2. On macOS:

   • Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner.
   • Select System Preferences.
   • Click on Apple ID.
   • Choose iCloud from the left sidebar.
   • Look for Private Relay and click on Options.
   • Toggle the switch to On.

Step 3: Understanding Private Relay Settings

To better understand and configure the settings for iCloud Private Relay, follow these steps:

1. On iOS:
   • Open the Settings app.
   • Tap on your Apple ID at the top of the screen.
   • Select iCloud.
   • Scroll down and choose Private Relay.
   • Under the Connections section, you can choose between Optimize for Security or Optimize for Compatibility.
   • The Security option encrypts all web traffic, but some websites may have limited functionality. The Compatibility option allows for more flexibility on non-encrypted websites.
2. On macOS:
   • Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner.
   • Select System Preferences.
   • Click on Apple ID.
   • Choose iCloud from the left sidebar.
   • Look for Private Relay and click on Options.
   • Under the Connections section, you can select either Optimize for Security or Optimize for Compatibility.
   Note: The settings you choose may impact your browsing experience on different websites.

Step 4: Verify Private Relay is Working

After enabling Private Relay, it's important to verify if it's functioning correctly. Follow these steps to ensure it is working:

1. On iOS or macOS:
   • Open any web browser of your choice.
   • Visit the website https://whatismyipaddress.com.
   • Check the IP address displayed.
   • Disable Private Relay and revisit the website to compare the IP addresses. If the IP address changes when Private Relay is enabled, it means that it's working correctly.

Congratulations! You have successfully set up and verified the usage of iCloud Private Relay. Enjoy enhanced privacy and security while browsing the internet.

Remember, iCloud Private Relay is currently only available to users with paid iCloud plans.