ClashX Setup Guide (macOS)

ClashX is a powerful, rule-based proxy client for macOS, supporting modern protocols such as VLESS, VMess, Shadowsocks, and Trojan. This guide covers installation, adding subscriptions, selecting rule modes, enabling system proxy, and troubleshooting.

What Is ClashX?

ClashX provides a clean macOS interface on top of the Clash core. It enables smart, rule-based routing with policy groups, so you can proxy foreign/blocked sites while keeping domestic traffic direct, and switch nodes per group with minimal friction.

Step 1 — Install ClashX

  1. Download the latest ClashX build from the official repository or trusted mirrors.
  2. Open the app (you may need to allow it in System Settings → Privacy & Security if Gatekeeper blocks it).
  3. Grant permissions when prompted; keep ClashX running in the menu bar.

Tip: Prefer official sources for integrity; if macOS warns about an unidentified developer, allow the app after verifying source.

Step 2 — Add Your Subscription (Recommended)

The easiest way to manage nodes is via a subscription URL provided by your service. ClashX will fetch and update nodes automatically.

  1. Open ClashX preferences and find the Profiles/Subscriptions section.
  2. Add your subscription URL and save.
  3. Click “Update” to pull the latest node list and rule sets.

You can also import single nodes (VLESS/VMess/SS/Trojan), but subscriptions are more convenient.

Step 3 — Choose Rule Mode and Policy Groups

ClashX uses rule providers and policy groups to decide which traffic goes via proxy or direct. Common strategies:

Select policy groups (e.g., “Proxy”, “Media”, “Game”) and assign nodes as needed. Many subscriptions ship with sensible defaults.

Step 4 — Enable the System Proxy

  1. Toggle “System Proxy” in ClashX to let browsers and most applications use the proxy automatically.
  2. Optionally, set ClashX to auto-start when you log in.

Verify your route by visiting What’s My IP.

Step 5 — Test Nodes and Optimize

Troubleshooting

Profile download failed: Check the subscription URL; ensure your network can reach it; the link may be expired.

Browser not using proxy: Confirm “System Proxy” is enabled; ensure the browser uses system proxy; restart the browser.

DNS leaks: Use rule mode with proper DNS or enable DoH in the browser. Test with DNS Leak Test.

Streaming stutters: Use media-optimized policy groups; try alternative nodes closer to the streaming CDN.

Related Guides

Need a Fast, Working Route?

Use our smart proxy finder to scan and recommend fast, available routes for your region.

Launch a Scan