NordVPN Review 2024

Ranking highly on our list of the best VPN services, NordVPN is undoubtedly one of the most competent VPNs around. It's renowned for being a highly sophisticated provider, adequately meeting the needs of advanced and novice users. Headquartered in Panama, a country outside the infamous "14 Eyes Alliance" jurisdiction, this provider protects online privacy without any external interference.

This VPN also guarantees digital security by featuring the AES-256-CBC cipher and ChaCha20 protocol encryption. This solid encryption, combined with an externally audited no-logs policy, ensures true anonymity. Nonetheless, there have been some problematic situations with security and privacy.

Although an isolated case, NordVPN was hacked in 2018, with the hacker gaining access to the VPN's Finland-based data centers. However, NordVPN's solid team quickly repelled the attack, and no personal data leaked.

In terms of performance, it features a NordLynx protocol guaranteeing stable connections and top speed for gaming, streaming, and torrenting. In truth, this VPN checks most of the right boxes, making it a near-perfect VPN provider. But is NordVPN right for you?

That's one of the many questions our hands-on NordVPN review will answer. Before we delve deeper, let's check some of the basic facts about this VPN provider.

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This NordVPN review covers everything about the service: its legality, safety, how it works, setup, pricing, and more. To learn more about our VPN testing processes, please read our guide on how we review VPNs.  

You'll also learn what's new in NordVPN, as it constantly innovates. We're making sure to keep this review up-to-date at all times, making it easier for you to make up your mind about NordVPN.

Background, Jurisdiction & Reputation

NordVPN has had certain problems in the past. However, the fact is that this VPN remains one of the most transparent and user-friendly VPNs out there. Our Score: 8.5/10

When choosing a VPN, you must know whether you can trust it. One of the best ways to find a trustworthy VPN is to check its background. You'll want to know about its jurisdiction as well as if there were any problematic data leaks in the past.

Where Is NordVPN Based?

NordVPN is based in Panama (the company behind NordVPN is called 'Nord Security - NordSec Ltd' / previously known as 'Tefincom S.A.'). This was a good choice, as this country has no data retention laws that could force VPNs to collect your private data.

Also, Panama is not a member of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance, a group of countries with mandatory data retention laws and aggressive mass surveillance operations.

It should be noted that certain rumors were circulating about this VPN a while back. According to those, NordVPN was owned by a company called Tesonet, based in Lithuania. Even though a connection exists between NordVPN and Tesonet (both of those brands come from the same team), there's nothing malicious in that connection.

In October 2021, NordVPN's parent company (Nord Security) acquired Atlas VPN, a relatively new VPN service known for offering a free tier. In February 2022, Nord Security merged with Surfshark, another well-known VPN service. That means NordVPN's parent company has close business relations with Atlas VPN and Surfshark, but that's where any connections between those VPNs end.

More precisely, NordVPN, Atlas VPN, and Surfshark have their own development paths and product roadmaps. They target different types of users and customers, and there's no data sharing involved between those brands.

If you'd like to take a much deeper dive into NordVPN's business structure and relations to other cybersecurity companies, we have a guide answering the question of who owns NordVPN.

Did NordVPN Leak Personal Data in the Past?

No, NordVPN has never leaked personal data in the past. It has a strict no-logs policy, and it promises not to collect your personal data. You'll be happy to know that NordVPN looks to be sticking to that promise by employing strict protocols that prevent any kind of unauthorized access to their servers.

Still, that doesn't mean there weren't any problematic situations in this VPN's past.

In September 2018, it was revealed that NordVPN had contained a privilege escalation bug that, in theory, could have exposed some of the user data (which didn't happen). However, this bug was fixed before the report became public.

In April 2019, there were reports of strange behavior related to NordVPN's data flow through the VPN's servers. However, the official explanation soon followed - saying that it was caused by NordVPN's anti-censorship mechanism (nothing suspicious, once again).

We've also learned that NordVPN was hacked in 2018 after an unknown hacker managed to access one of the VPN's Finland-based data centers. As NordVPN explained, this was an isolated case that didn't endanger any personal information.

Is NordVPN Safe and Legal to Use?

Yes, NordVPN is safe and legal because it uses industry-standard encryption and VPN tunnels to protect you from hackers and snooping government organizations.

It uses the AES-256-CBC cipher encryption, which the government uses and is the gold standard in the industry. The VPN provider also features three tunneling protocols: OpenVPN, NordLynx, and IKEv2/IPsec to best suit user preference and device compatibility.

Another layer of security comes from NordVPN’s Double VPN feature, which routes your traffic through two separate servers, adding an extra shield of protection. For even more peace of mind, it has a kill switch that blocks your Internet connection if the VPN unexpectedly drops. This feature ensures your data is never exposed.

On top of all that, NordVPN has undergone several third-party audits to confirm its no-logs claims. So, from a technical and legal point of view, NordVPN is as safe and legal as it comes.

Supported Platforms & Devices

NordVPN covers almost every platform imaginable. You can always count on using a native app from them, including their recent release for ARM-based devices. Our Score: 10/10

When you decide to use a VPN, you'll want one that protects all your devices. That's because using a single unprotected device poses a risk of leaking your personal data. So, here’s a table showing NordVPN on multiple devices, detailing which ones are natively supported by the VPN:

It’s clear that NordVPN brings wide compatibility with many platforms and devices. In fact, it’s one of the pioneering VPN providers that offers protection for ARM-based Windows devices against various online threats.

They've recently launched a native app for the Surface Pro series and other ARM-powered devices like Lenovo Flex 5G, Samsung Galaxy Book S, Acer Spin 7, and HP Elite Folio. NordVPN built its app specifically for ARM64 devices, complementing the existing app for x64 systems.

What’s also important to note is that you can use NordVPN on devices not mentioned in the table above – as long as those devices support the OpenVPN protocol.

In those cases, you would need to set up NordVPN manually (like NordVPN on Roku). In general, that's not an overly complicated procedure. You can always rely on NordVPN's customer support for any assistance.

Of course, you can always go for capable and compatible routers. Simply set up NordVPN on Asus Router, DD-WRT, Tomato, or any router that supports OpenVPN and protect all your devices at once without having native clients installed.

On top of that, installing NordVPN on your router takes a single "slot" of your subscription, no matter how many devices you connect to your router. However, the number of devices you can use with NordVPN is limited to 10 per account.

Installation & Initial Configuration

Downloading, installing, and configuring NordVPN doesn’t require you to have any technical knowledge. The entire process is very user-centric and intuitive. Our Score: 10/10

In this section of our NordVPN review, we'll provide you with a brief explanation of how the VPN provider works, as well as how to get started using it. So, keep reading!

How Does NordVPN Work?

Like every other VPN provider, NordVPN establishes an encrypted tunnel over the Internet for your data. This way, it changes your IP address and keeps your data safe between you and your destination. As such, no private external party or government can track your online activities.

With NordVPN's ability to mask your current location and online activities, you can access geo-restricted content and stream your favorite shows from anywhere in the world.

As a consumer-focused VPN provider, it offers highly intuitive apps across all devices, ensuring an easy and stress-free user experience. With just a few clicks, the service takes care of all the technical hassle of providing solid security and privacy, excellent speed and performance, and easy access to geo-restricted content.

How to Download and Use NordVPN?

Downloading and installing the NordVPN app is a straightforward process. There are two ways to get the app: via the official website or the app store.

To have the smoothest experience, we advise you to download NordVPN directly from their official website. Aside from that, some countries restrict downloading the app from app stores, so your best bet is the official website.

Here's a simple step-by-step approach to setting up NordVPN:

1. Subscribe to NordVPN using your favorite Web browser.
2. Then, return to NordVPN's website and click "Log In."
3. Access your Nord Account by supplying your credentials.
4. Select "Downloads" on the left.
5. Download the installation file and install the app.
6. Launch NordVPN and provide your login details (you'll do that via your browser).
7. Go into NordVPN's settings (bottom-left corner) and activate the "Kill Switch."
8. Return to NordVPN's home screen and enable "Threat Protection Pro" features.
9. Pick any server and connect. That's it!

In the guide above, we advised you to enable NordVPN's kill switch, which allows you to add a list of apps that will be forced to quit if your VPN connection drops. That way, those apps won't leak your sensitive information, as their access to the Web will be disabled.

Also, NordVPN's "Threat Protection" is a very handy feature that comes included with your subscription. You can use it to block malicious sites, stop Web tracking, block ads, and more.

To use NordVPN across a range of supported devices, check our central guide on how to set up NordVPN. In cases where NordVPN won't connect, the recommended first step is to contact its customer support. We'll explore some troubleshooting options later if you prefer a self-help approach.

Prominent Features

NordVPN is among the most feature-rich VPNs. It covers the basics quite well and also offers a range of advanced and unique features to protect you on the Web. Our Score: 10/10

In this segment, we look at a set of standard and advanced features that VPNs typically offer. Speaking of NordVPN’s features, you’ll find plenty of options here.

Here's an overview of what to expect.

• DNS and IPv6 Leak Protection: This feature prevents your IP address and DNS requests from being exposed to third parties. It works by blocking your IPv6 interface and routing all your IPv4 traffic through NordVPN's encrypted tunnel and DNS servers. This way, you can enjoy online privacy without worrying about third parties spying on your every move.
• Threat Protection Pro: This recently introduced feature, available on Plus and Ultimate plans, offers enhanced security by blocking ads, trackers, and malware. It functions similarly to the DNS filtering option available to all Basic plan subscribers. NordVPN's new vulnerability detection tool also strengthens your cybersecurity by scanning Windows for vulnerable programs and providing alerts about security flaws for quick action.

• High-End Data Encryption: NordVPN protects your online traffic from prying eyes through advanced encryption standards (AES) with 256-bit keys, which are virtually impossible to crack. An encrypted connection also ensures you’re privately browsing the Web without worrying about hackers, ISPs, or government agencies snooping on your data.
• SmartDNS: With this feature, you can stream restricted content from any device that supports custom DNS settings. It keeps your connection fast and secure by changing your DNS settings only. The other benefit is that you can use this VPN to stream from different platforms simultaneously without switching servers or regions.
• Kill Switch: NordVPN's kill switch is a built-in feature that protects your data from leaking if your VPN connection drops. It blocks your device's Web access until the VPN is restored. You don't need to activate it, as it’s ‘on’ by default. The service also offers an advanced kill switch that you can enable manually for extra security against rare IP leaks. This feature is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

• Private DNS: This option lets you securely browse the Web by connecting to NordVPN's DNS server. It does that by encrypting all your DNS requests. Using this, you can also access any site without censorship or interference. Private DNS is ‘on’ by default on all NordVPN apps, but you can also set it up manually if you wish to do so.
• Split Tunneling: With split tunneling, you can decide which apps use NordVPN and which don't. You can also mark your apps as 'trusted' and see who else is on the same connection. This feature is only for Android, Android TV, and Windows devices. The macOS and Linux apps don't have it yet.

• VPN Protocol: This VPN offers a variety of protocols for secure connections. Depending on your device and preference, you can select from OpenVPN, NordLynx, and IKEv2/IPsec. Each protocol has its own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, OpenVPN is an open-source protocol that is widely compatible and customizable. NordLynx is NordVPN's own version of WireGuard, which is fast and lightweight. IKEv2 is another speedy protocol that’s ideal for mobile devices.
• NordVPN Meshnet: By using the Meshnet, you can create a secure network with other NordVPN users. This feature lets you share files, play games, and access content remotely. It does that by connecting your devices directly through encrypted tunnels and giving them special IP addresses. To join a Meshnet, you only need an active subscription and invitation. You can access this feature on Windows, Linux, and macOS devices.

• Dark Web Monitor: This cybersecurity feature lets you scan the dark web for any credential leaks associated with your NordVPN email address and notifies you of potential threats. It runs in the background and requires no configuration. The Dark Web Monitor feature is available on macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android apps.
• Dedicated IP: You can get a dedicated IP address from NordVPN that belongs to one of these countries: the US, Canada, Japan, the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, and plenty more. It costs $8.99 per month if you have NordVPN’s monthly plan, and you can buy it after you sign up for the VPN.
• Double VPN: NordVPN’s Double VPN feature routes traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, encrypting your data and hiding your IP address twice. As you can expect, with this optional feature turned on, no one can track what you do online. It’s available on Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Windows apps.
• Onion Over VPN: Through this feature, your data first goes through a secure NordVPN server before it hits the Tor network. This extra-layered encryption makes it virtually impossible to trace your online activity back to you. You can access Onion Over VPN under the ‘Specialty Servers’ section on Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Windows apps.
• NordProtect: This protection feature is exclusively available to US 'Prime' plan subscribers. It offers comprehensive identity theft protection, dark Web monitoring, credit activity tracking, timely alerts, and expert support for identity theft recovery, including protection against cyber extortion.

Server Count & Infrastructure

NordVPN comes with a trove of servers spread across the entire planet - and it often expands that network in a rapid manner. Our Score: 10/10

NordVPN is one of the VPNs with the most substantial number of servers. To discover more information, check out the table found below.

As you can tell, the number of NordVPN servers is astounding (with servers in India, the UK, the US, Australia, and Canada). Due to its 7,000+ server network, NordVPN is among the VPNs with the most servers.

NordVPN also offers city-level servers in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, the UK, USA, and Vietnam.

Having this many servers is a good thing. In theory, this means you’ll hardly connect to an overcrowded server that throttles the speed of your Web connection. However, this doesn’t mean that VPNs with 500 or 1,000 servers won’t perform as fluidly as NordVPN.

What we’re saying is – even though having plenty of servers is a nice thing, this shouldn't be the most important aspect of choosing a VPN.

Also, there are active NordVPN obfuscated servers available in the following locations:

NordVPN doesn’t disclose the exact number of obfuscated servers at each location. However, we noticed that the Android app offers city-specific obfuscation for U.S. connections. To use these servers, just select "Obfuscated Servers" from the "Specialty Servers" list and connect to the fastest server or your preferred location.

Does NordVPN Use Virtual Server Locations?

Yes, NordVPN does use virtual servers. They started with a single virtual server for India in January 2024, with a physical server via Singapore. To expand their reach, they've now significantly increased their offerings by adding more than 50 virtual VPN locations.

Furthermore, NordVPN has implemented a colocated server network, which means it owns and operates its servers in secure data centers, giving it greater control over security, performance, and user privacy. This is a major benefit (especially compared to its competitors) as it gives NordVPN a better chance of creating an incredibly safe and privacy-respecting environment.

UI/UX Design & Ease of Use

NordVPN is very easy to use. It comes with a user-centric and modern-looking UI across all its apps, suitable even for complete beginners. Our Score: 10/10

In this segment of our NordVPN review, we'll take a look at the VPN's apps for desktop and mobile platforms. And since Web browser extensions are on offer, we'll explain what you can expect from NordVPN in that aspect as well.

How Well Does NordVPN Work on Desktop Platforms?

NordVPN's user-friendly desktop interface makes online privacy accessible to everyone. With features like the "Quick-connect" button and intuitive settings, even tech novices can easily secure their online activities.

As you can see from the images in this segment, NordVPN is actually a very simple application. The home screen button on the left sidebar, also called "dashboard" in the Windows app, consists of an overview of your VPN connection, recent connections, and weekly connection time (with or without VPN use).

Below the home screen, you'll find the VPN button with a Web icon. The menu comes with a large interactive map background, which you can use to quickly connect to any NordVPN server.

To explore NordVPN’s comprehensive list of server locations, just head back to the home screen. You can either search for locations manually or choose from NordVPN’s specialized servers, including options like Dedicated IP, Double VPN, Obfuscated servers, Onion Over VPN, and P2P.

Before you click on any country's name from the left-placed list, you can take your time to pick a server manually. Hover over any country's name, and you'll see a 'three dots' icon on the right. Click on that icon, and a menu will appear. Then, pick a city server from this menu and connect to it.

In the same sidebar menu, there's a convenient shortcut to customizing the "Threat Protection Pro" feature and securing access to your devices or sharing files through "Meshnet."

Below the 'Meshnet' icon is NordVPN's "Dark Web Monitor." NordVPN checks your email address for leaks that might have happened on the Dark Web. In general, this seems like a handy feature to have.

On macOS, NordVPN also gives you customizable presets (you can add more), accessible via its home screen. You can set a custom protocol and pick a server. That way, you can optimize NordVPN for speed, downloading files, Web browsing, and more.

To dive deeper into what NordVPN offers, you can check its settings. To access that side of the VPN, click on the 'Settings' icon, visible in the bottom-left corner. We've tested NordVPN on a Windows computer, so here's what the VPN allowed us to customize:

• General: This is where you can instruct NordVPN to auto-start on system startup. Other than that, you can change the app's appearance and language, run diagnostics, and decide whether to send crash reports.
• Connection: Here, you can manage how you connect to VPN servers, including protocol selection, auto-connect options, DNS filtering, setting custom DNS, and more.

• Kill Switch: If you enable NordVPN's Internet kill switch, your data will be secured in case your connection drops. You can also set a list of apps that will be shut down automatically to prevent your data from leaking.
• Split Tunneling: You can choose which apps use the VPN for secure browsing and which can directly access the Internet.
• Profile: Manage your NordVPN account and view subscription details here. Plus, you can download links for other devices or even grab a QR code for easy app installation.

How Well Does NordVPN Work on Mobile Platforms?

NordVPN works so well on mobile platforms. It has done a wonderful job of creating a uniform user experience. That means you can count on the same set of UI design principles across all its apps. This is something we don't often see these days, and it puts NordVPN ahead of its competition.

Using NordVPN on phone is a joy, and we can't emphasize it enough. On iOS, the app's home screen shows a list of servers, along with an interactive map. Tap on any country using this map, or select a server manually - and you'll be connected in an instant.

However, take note that the full array of specialty servers on iOS only appears when using the OpenVPN protocols (UDP/TCP).

At the bottom of the screen, you can check detailed information about the currently active VPN session, access NordVPN's Meshnet, and you'll find a button that takes you to the app's settings (where you can change the VPN protocol and more).

When it comes to Android, you'll see a home screen that's practically similar to iOS. This includes an interactive map, along with a list of all NordVPN's servers below (including specialty servers as well). Like iOS, you can access NordVPN's settings via "Profile" in the bottom-right corner.

Speaking of NordVPN's settings on iOS and Android, know that there's plenty to fine-tune. So, here's an overview of what to expect.

• Threat Protection (Android & iOS): As mentioned earlier, this is NordVPN's ad-blocking and anti-malware tool. This is where you can enable it, making your private data safer online.
• Local Network Discovery (Android & iOS): If you'd like to allow your local devices to be easily discoverable (like your TV or printer), this is where you can enable that option.
• Split Tunneling (Android): NordVPN offers split tunneling on Android, allowing you to set the apps that will continue to use your "regular" Internet connection.
• Auto-Connect (Android & iOS): You can set NordVPN to auto-connect to a server on all Wi-Fi networks or only on specific networks. This feature can be disabled as well.
• VPN Protocol (Android & iOS): On Android and iOS, you can choose from OpenVPN and NordLynx. The iOS app also supports the IKEv2 protocol.
• Custom DNS & "Tapjacking" Protection (Android): These features are reserved for Android only. You get to set a custom DNS server address, as well as allow NordVPN to protect you against "tapjacking." These are malicious screen overlays that trick you into triggering an unintended action.

All in all, NordVPN's Android and iOS apps are hugely polished and incredibly capable. We highly recommend using them.

How Well Do NordVPN's Web Browser Extensions Work?

The NordVPN extension for Web browsers works great. The VPN provides a Chrome extension, as well as extensions for Firefox and Edge (including other Web browsers built on Google's Chromium and Mozilla's Gecko). NordVPN doesn't have a Safari extension, but connecting to NordVPN servers using the macOS app seamlessly works with Safari, too.

We're also happy to report that Nord's Web browser extensions have been recently overhauled, so here's what to expect.

Once you log in to your account, NordVPN's extension will show an interface letting you connect to a server automatically or manually. If you click on 'Quick Connect,' the browser extension will pick the closest server based on your physical location, which should provide you with the fastest possible speed.

To dive deeper, click on the "Settings" icon in the bottom-right corner. You'll get to block WebRTC leaks, enable NordVPN's ad-blocking feature, and manage your list of websites that can bypass Nord's proxy (split tunneling).

Keep in mind that NordVPN's Web browser extensions don't provide the same security level as the VPN's native apps. Using the app, you get a range of ultra-secure protocols and high-end encryption. And using the extension, your HTTPS traffic will be encrypted via the "Transport Layer Security" (TLS 1.2) protocol, which means we're talking about a proxy (not a VPN) here.

On a brighter note, there's a tab where you can "refer a friend" and instantly earn 3 free months of NordVPN. Your friend will also benefit from receiving up to 3 free months (depending on the plan they choose).

Overall, it's good to know that NordVPN's browser extension looks and works great - especially if you need fast performance, better protection for your data, or to eliminate ads.

Media Streaming, Torrenting, and Gaming Support 

NordVPN unblocks dozens of streaming services and comes with streaming-friendly speeds. Also, it can be used to download torrents and play online games. Our Score: 10/10

One of the main reasons people use VPNs is to access content online, whether it’s streaming, downloading torrents, or playing games. However, not all VPNs can deliver a smooth and satisfying experience for these activities. Let’s see if NordVPN’s up to the task.

Is NordVPN Good for Streaming?

Yes, NordVPN is an excellent VPN provider for streaming, as it offers fast speeds and a wide array of server locations. It uses SmartPlay technology, which combines the security of a VPN and the flexibility of SmartDNS to provide smooth and fast streaming.

We've used NordVPN to watch shows on Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu without any major hiccups. It also consistently unblocked Netflix libraries worldwide, allowing us to access a diverse range of titles, including exclusive originals and region-specific content.

More importantly, we didn't experience any buffering or lag, even while streaming 4K content on Android TV, Fire TV, and Apple TV. However, we encountered a few minor issues watching Prime Video on Windows due to Amazon's VPN detection.

Here are some of the most notable US-based streaming platforms this VPN unblocks.

Netflix	Disney+	Max
Hulu	Apple TV+	Crunchyroll
Sling TV	ESPN+	Fubo TV

NordVPN dominates other VPNs for international and non-US streaming platforms, too. Here’s what you can expect.

BBC iPlayer (UK)	ITVX (UK)	CBC (Canada)
RaiPlay (Italy)	9NOW Live (Australia)	RTE (Spain)
Zattoo (Germany)	GloboPlay (Brazil)	DSTV (S. Africa)

NordVPN is the best streaming VPN that has improved in the past few months. Before, finding a server that worked with Netflix and other platforms involved manually trying different connections.

Despite not having dedicated streaming servers, NordVPN works with Netflix and other popular streaming platforms without notable issues. Simply choose a server in the country of your desired streaming service and enjoy unblocked content.

This makes NordVPN a reliable choice for media streaming, as it can access almost any platform you want. However, it’d be nice if NordVPN offered specialized streaming servers in the future so you could easily see which servers are available without trial and error.

Is NordVPN Good for Torrenting?

Yes, NordVPN for torrenting is good, thanks to its dedicated P2P servers. You can find them under 'Specialty Servers,' and they’re available in almost every country on the list.

Let’s not forget that the service is based in Panama, outside the jurisdiction of major surveillance alliances, and follows a strict no-logs policy, which means it doesn't spy on your torrents. That's why NordVPN remains the safest VPN for torrenting, especially for those with serious privacy concerns, such as journalists, activists, and folks living in countries with restrictive Internet censorship.

Apart from that, NordVPN offers a range of advanced security features, such as a VPN kill switch that prevents your IP address from being exposed. You can also choose from different VPN protocols to optimize your connection’s speed and stability.

The other thing that’s truly helpful is NordVPN’s SOCKS5 proxy, which you can use with torrent clients like BitTorrent. However, we don't recommend using this feature, as it’s less secure than a VPN. A SOCKS5 proxy only changes your IP address, but it doesn't encrypt your traffic.

Is NordVPN Good for Gaming?

Yes, we believe that NordVPN is a great choice for gaming online. It has a large network of servers around the world and supports almost any device or platform. Also, it lets you customize your connection for gaming with different protocols, including IKEv2/IPSec.

IKEv2/IPsec may be an older and slightly less secure protocol, but it excels in specific use cases like high-speed downloads or online gaming that demand a stable connection.

In fact, NordVPN has many features for gamers. For example, it can block ads, malware, and other online threats that can affect your gaming performance and security. We know DDoS attacks can ruin gameplay, and in our experience, NordVPN is brilliant at saving you from them through its kill switch feature.

Apart from that, it can also help you access games that are restricted in your region through its SmartPlay feature and automatically connect you to the best server for gaming.

Security & Privacy

Despite some 'risky' situations from its past, NordVPN is still a highly trustworthy VPN that respects and protects your personal data. Our Score: 9.5/10

Now, let’s talk about privacy and security – perhaps the most important aspects when choosing a VPN. We’re going to take a look at NordVPN’s encryption and logging policies, and we’ll test its claims as well.

NordVPN Protocols - Listed & Explained!

The table found below shows which VPN protocols are found in each NordVPN app. So, we strongly recommend taking a look below before we discuss what each of those protocols brings.

It's worth highlighting that, in some cases, you can add new VPN protocols manually. For example, this is possible with the IKEv2 protocol on Windows and Linux. By installing this protocol manually, you can take advantage of it even if it's not offered natively.

Still, there's a reason why NordVPN offers a select range of protocols in each of its apps. Even though you can overcome that "limitation," you should do that only if you really know what you're doing. Otherwise, rely on NordVPN's built-in protocols.

• OpenVPN: OpenVPN is present across all of NordVPN's apps. This is a hugely powerful protocol that comes with strong encryption algorithms. NordVPN couples this protocol with AES-256-GCM (with a 4,096-bit DH key). This would mean that even if someone gets to your data, it would be impossible for them to actually "read" that data.
• IKEv2: The IKEv2 protocol is found across Apple-made devices in this case, and it's used by default in NordVPN's apps for macOS and iOS. IKEv2 is considered one of the strongest protocols out there while also managing to provide reliable performance. NordVPN couples it with AES-256 encryption, which should provide the highest level of data protection.
• NordLynx (WireGuard): NordLynx is NordVPN's spin on the WireGuard protocol. This is the newest VPN protocol available, boasting high-end security while providing incredibly fast performance. After extensive testing across several platforms, NordLynx became available in April 2020. As NordVPN highlights, NordLynx is "modern, extremely fast, and insanely lean in architecture." It consists of only 4,000 lines of code, which makes it incredibly lightweight and flexible. Therefore, you get both protection and performance.

Does NordVPN Keep Logs?

No, NordVPN doesn't keep logs related to your private data, online activity, or your Internet browsing history due to its strict no-logs policy.

In other words, none of your personal information is stored on any of NordVPN’s thousands of servers. And to prove this no-logging policy, NordVPN went through many independent audits.

However, it's worth noting that NordVPN does collect some data. We're talking here about diagnostic logs, anonymized telemetry data, your device's information, and device identifiers.

Even though all those technical terms sound intimidating, there's nothing to worry about. NordVPN collects anonymized data only, which helps the VPN service run better and resolve technical problems. Rest assured, you're safe under NordVPN's log policy.

Does NordVPN Leak/Expose Your Personal Data?

No, NordVPN doesn't leak or expose your personal data. To check for any DNS leak, we've made several VPN connections using NordVPN and tested those VPN tunnels.

As you can see from the image in this segment, our 'true' IP address remained hidden and was replaced by NordVPN's 'virtual' information.

Keep in mind that we've done extensive DNS leak tests covering IP, DNS, WebRTC, and geo-location data leaks. All of our data never left NordVPN's tunnel, and no leaks were detected. Therefore, we conclude that this VPN will keep you safe and protected online.

Speed & Performance

NordVPN is among the fastest VPNs. Streaming in 4K or downloading large files should not be a problem, even if you don’t have an ultra-fast baseline connection. Our Score: 9/10

Let's see how NordVPN affects our speed. Without a VPN session active in the background, we got 581.09 Mbps for downloads and 57.99 Mbps for uploads. Those are our baseline stats.

Now, we'll try different servers around the world and compare the numbers. VPNs usually slow down your Web traffic by making it take longer routes, so we want to check how well NordVPN handles this by testing both nearby and remote servers.

Here's what we got during our tests of NordVPN’s performance:

• US Server (Los Angeles): This server was far from our physical location, so we expected some speed loss. However, we were positively surprised by the result. Our download speed dropped from 581.09 Mbps to 506.36 Mbps. That's a 13% loss in speed, which means that the US server has a good connection and can handle long-distance traffic well.
• UK Server (London): The server from the UK was relatively close to us, so we hoped for a better performance. We weren't disappointed. Our download speed decreased to 522.99 Mbps. That's a 10% loss in speed, which is reasonable.
• Canada Server (Montreal): NordVPN’s Canada server was as far as the US server from us, so we expected a similar result. We were right. Our download speed fell from 581.09 Mbps to 530.54 Mbps. That's a 9% loss in speed.
• Singapore Server: Since this server was very far from us, we expected our Web speed to deteriorate rapidly. However, our speed dropped from 581.09 Mbps to 501.72 Mbps. That's a 14% loss in speed, suggesting that the Singapore server can manage long-distance traffic quite well.
• Australia Server (Melbourne): This server was also very far from us, so we expected a similar outcome to that of the Singapore server. Our download speed dipped to 364.81 Mbps. That's a 37% loss in speed, which is the lowest among all the servers we tested.
• Italy Server (Milan): The Italian server was another close one to us, so we hoped for a relatively good result. We were let down. Our download speed declined from 581.09 Mbps to 538.96 Mbps. That's a 7% loss in speed.

We're sure you'll need some help making sense of the numbers found above. For that purpose, we've created the following table, so check it out.

Our tests show that NordVPN slowed down our Web connection by 15% on average. This puts it among the top VPN services in terms of speed. However, while your download speed will stay fast and steady, your upload speed might vary.

As you can see above, NordVPN's performance never dipped below 360 Mbps for us, which is more than enough to stream 4K videos on several devices simultaneously. So, if you have a speedy Web connection, NordVPN won't disappoint you.

Customer Support

NordVPN offers a complete range of customer support channels - so you can have all your questions answered promptly. Our Score: 10/10

If you take a look at older reviews of NordVPN still found online, you’ll see that many were complaining about this company’s lack of live chat and other types of customer support. Well, that is no longer the case.

NordVPN has upgraded its customer support system, and you can expect the following types of resources:

• Live Chat Support: You can talk to a real person via 24/7 live chat from any page of NordVPN's website. We’ve tried this option a few times and managed to get someone to talk to us in a matter of minutes. The company’s representatives were quite helpful and polite.
• Email Correspondence: In case live chat is unavailable, you can send an email to the company. However, you can expect a reply to come within 48 hours. Therefore, live chat should always be your first choice, especially if you're in a rush to resolve your problem.
• Support Center: NordVPN has a dedicated support page on its website that acts as a troubleshooter. You can check out several support-related categories or use the built-in search option to find an answer to your problems.
• Tutorials: Lastly, there are comprehensive installation tutorials that will help you install and use NordVPN on all of its supported platforms and devices.

Reaching live customer support may initially involve navigating through a chatbot. However, once you connect with a real person, the support is generally good. Knowledgeable representatives can assist with questions, troubleshoot issues, and even offer helpful tips like coupon codes. To streamline the process, it's a good idea to start your chat conversation with, "Can I talk to a live agent?"

We always recommend going straight to NordVPN's customer support if you have any questions. However, we're also here to provide some actionable tips. So, here's what to do when NordVPN fails to connect:

• Check Your Web Connection: Like every other VPN provider, NordVPN requires a stable Internet connection to function smoothly. So, before you do anything else, check if your Internet connection works properly using your Web browser.
• Switch to Another Server: Connecting to a traffic-congested server or a distant server often slows your connection. If you are having trouble connecting, try another server (one that's closer to your physical location) and check if the issue persists.
• Check Your Subscription: Verify if you still have an active subscription plan. If your plan has expired, you won't be able to connect to or use any of Nord's services.
• Ensure There Are No Software Conflicts: Antivirus and antimalware software installed on your devices can be too protective and restrict the VPN service from working. To solve this issue, you can temporarily disable your antivirus/antimalware.
• Corrupted Adapters: If you use Windows, try restarting your device's TAP adapters. It's best to talk to NordVPN's support, as they can provide detailed steps on what needs to be done.

Pricing

NordVPN is a high-priced VPN, but it gets much more affordable via its long-term plans. You'll also find highly attractive deals (with one being available right now). Our Score: 9/10

NordVPN has 4 subscription plans. If you want to save money, you might want to consider a longer-term plan. With that said, here's what you should know about its current price.

How Much Is NordVPN?

NordVPN's subscription plans start at $2.99/month. You can choose from four options: Basic, Plus, Complete, and Prime. The pricing of each plan depends on the subscription duration you choose, and all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, which can be used as a NordVPN free trial.

Signing up for any 1-year or 2-year package gives you an additional 3 months of service. Let's take a look at each plan:

• Basic: This plan offers a high-speed, secure VPN with standard 'Threat Protection,' and 10 simultaneous connections. Its monthly subscription comes at a cost of $12.99, while the 12-month plan starts at $4.59, and the 24-month plan costs $2.99/month.
• Plus: Upgrading to this tier gives you everything from the 'Basic' plan, along with malware protection, anti-tracking and ad-blocking features, a premium password manager, and a data breach scanner. The monthly charge for this plan is $13.99, while the 1-year subscription comes in at $5.49/month. Subscribing to the 2-year option reduces the cost to just $3.89/month.
• Complete: This plan includes 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage in addition to the features of the 'Basic' and 'Plus' tiers. The recurring monthly fee is $14.99. The annual plan costs $6.49/month, but you can get a monthly fee of $4.89 if you get the extended 24-month plan.
• Prime: With this all-in-one package, you’ll have access to all the features from the first three plans, plus 'NordProtect.' This includes Dark Web Monitoring, 1-Bureau credit monitoring, monthly VantageScore 3.0 updates, and TransUnion credit freeze assistance. Monthly charging starts at $17.99, then $9.49/month for the annual plan, and $7.89/month for the 2-year subscription.

Great NordVPN deals are out there, but the NordVPN price you see might change depending on your location. They're offering discounts up to a whopping 75% off! Here's the breakdown:

• Sweden and the US get offers reaching 74% off.
• UK, Germany, Netherlands, Italy, and France can find plans up to 73% off.
• Everyone else gets the best deal - up to 75% off!

Additionally, you can save big with NordVPN's Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. For now, though, these special offers have ended, so you can take advantage of NordVPN's Christmas deal instead. This holiday deal offers a massive 74% discount on 2-year plans, starting at just $2.99/month, with 3 extra months of VPN protection for annual and 2-year plans.

NordVPN frequently offers discounts and coupon codes to help you save on your subscription. If you're interested in learning more about these deals and how to apply them, check out our guide on how to apply NordVPN coupon codes.

In terms of payment, NordVPN allows you to pay using credit/debit cards, crypto, Amazon Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and more.

NordVPN's got some pretty decent pricing, especially for the long-term plans. However, the price you see now might not be the price you pay when your plan renews. NordVPN can change their renewal prices, so you could end up paying more than you expected.

If you want to maximize your savings, try stacking NordVPN subscriptions! Sign up for their ongoing Christmas VPN deal for a two-year plan, and then watch for other NordVPN deals. This simple trick can lock in lower prices for years to come.

So, keep an eye on those renewal prices, and don't be afraid to switch things up if you need to.

Is NordVPN Free?

No, NordVPN isn’t free because it’s a premium provider. It doesn't offer a free trial on its website, but you can try it for free for 7 days if you're using Android, with the trial following Google Play's terms.

You'll need to provide your credit card details and pay for your chosen subscription, but you’ll have 30 days to change your mind and get your money back - without any questions asked. This 30-day money-back guarantee covers all devices. Here's how to cancel your NordVPN subscription and get a refund.

Despite offering multiple paid plans, a NordVPN lifetime subscription doesn’t exist as it’s not sustainable for the brand. Offering it would mean selling the service for a low price and losing the regular income that’s needed to maintain the service.

NordVPN Comparison with Other VPN Providers

In general, NordVPN stands out as a strong contender when it comes to VPN providers, boasting a range of impressive features. The following list compares NordVPN to other popular VPN providers, including ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, Surfshark, IPVanish, and more.

• NordVPN vs Surfshark
• ExpressVPN vs NordVPN
• CyberGhost VPN vs NordVPN
• NordVPN vs. IPVanish
• NordVPN vs. PIA
• Mullvad vs. NordVPN
• Atlas VPN vs NordVPN
• NordVPN vs Proton VPN
• NordVPN vs PureVPN
• Windscribe vs NordVPN
• NordVPN vs TorGuard
• NordVPN vs Bitdefender VPN
• Avast SecureLine vs NordVPN

Final Thoughts - Is NordVPN Good?

Yes, NordVPN is more than good - it's the best in the VPN arena for compelling reasons. Its massive server network and impressive speeds ensure smooth browsing, media streaming, gaming, and downloads for uninterrupted enjoyment.

When it comes to security, NordVPN employs industry-leading VPN protocols and AES-256 encryption to form an impenetrable shield for your online activities. Its strict no-logs policy, rigorously audited by independent third parties, also guarantees your privacy.

Beyond the essential features, you also get virtual servers for added flexibility, along with obfuscation to help you bypass those extra hurdles. It even offers double encryption and dedicated IPs for specific needs. And to maximize your privacy, NordVPN uses RAM-based servers, ensuring no data is ever written to a physical disk.

Given these features, we strongly recommend NordVPN. It's an exceptional VPN provider that delivers on all fronts, offering unparalleled security, advanced functionality, and a positive user experience.

Review Summary This is certainly one of the most interesting VPNs available today. We're sure that many of you are going to be perfectly happy with NordVPN.		9.6 Overall Score
Background, Jurisdiction & Reputation			8.5
Supported Platforms & Devices			10
Installation & Initial Configuration			10
Prominent Features			10
Server Count & Infrastructure			10
UI/UX Design & Ease of Use			10
Media Streaming, Torrenting, and Gaming Support			10
Security & Privacy			9.5
Speed & Performance			9
Customer Support			10
Pricing			9