How to create different network locations in MacOS for more flexible connections
I connect to many different networks. At home I have three different LANs to choose from, which I use as needed. For example I have a general purpose network and one that I use for deploying containers and such.
For the general purpose network, I can just have MacOS accept an IP address from the DHCP server. However, for the container network, I prefer to assign a static IP address.
Is that possible?
It certainly is. MacOS network locations allow you to assign specific configurations for specific networks (or locations) and even define a specific network to connect to within a location.
Let me show you how it works.
Likewise: How to manage SSH connections on MacOS with Termius
How to create different network locations in macOS
requirements
The only thing you need is a device running an updated version of MacOS. This feature works with both wired and wireless connections.
Click on the Apple menu at the top right of your screen and choose System Preferences from the menu.
In System Preferences, click the Network icon to open the Network section.
From the Location drop-down menu, select Edit Locations. In the resulting pop-up window, click + (the plus sign). You’ll be prompted to name the location, so type a new name and press Enter on your keyboard, then click Done.
Creating a new network location in MacOS Monterey. Image: Jack Wallen
Make sure you select the new location you created from the Location drop-down list. Click Advanced to open the site configuration window where you can configure the site according to your specific needs. For example, you can choose the network to use and then configure that network to a static IP address using Cloudflare DNS servers.
Configure a network for the new location in macOS. Image: Jack Wallen
Once you’ve configured the save location exactly how you need it, click Apply to save everything.
Switch to a different network location
After creating all the network locations you need, MacOS makes it very easy to switch between them. All you have to do is click Apple menu > Location > [Location name] (select the name of the location you want to use).
Switching between network locations is just a few mouse clicks away. Image: Jack Wallen
And that’s all that’s required to create and use network locations in macOS. If you want to know how your macOS device interacts with a network, this is a good way. However, remember that if you move away from the current location, you will want to choose a different one. For example, if you have a home location and a work location, your device may have trouble connecting to that work LAN using the home settings.
Fortunately, you are now able to make this switch more easily.