NordVPN was one of the best choices mentioned when I began researching VPNs. I wanted to find out whether NordVPN is capable of providing such benefits after having read about outstanding security, very fast connectivity, and user-friendly design. At this point, I have been using NordVPN frequently for the past few months, and I think it deserves in-depth analysis.
Introduction To NordVPN
NordVPN quickly took its place in the world of VPNs after its establishment in 2012 in Panama. This virtual private network service provider is famous for placing a strong focus on security and privacy and provides many features that keep your activities protected. It ensures fast connection speed and smooth navigation because of more than 5,400 servers located in 59 different countries.
Setup And User Interface
Step-by-step setup through NordVPN was relatively easy. By installing the app from their website, the app was up and running on my device in a few minutes. I didn’t face any challenges in following the steps up to the installation because every step was well explained.
Upon installation, it started with a simple and easy-to-understand interface. There is a world map on the main screen with dots corresponding to the servers’ geolocation. Connecting to a server is even simpler than it may sound – simply click on a spot on the map or select a country from the list on the side. There is also the quick connect option which connects you to the best server depending on your region in a short time.
Experience On All Screen
There are numerous platforms where NordVPN has its application, such as Windows, MAC OS, Android, iOS, and Linux. I tested it on some gadgets and noticed that all features are efficient and identical to each other.
Mac And Windows
The Windows along with macOS suitable applications are simple to use and smart. The options such as Server, Split Tunnels, and Kill Switch are easy to find out from the interface. Due to the friendly user interface, it is simple to switch between settings and connect with the servers.
iOS And Android
The mobile applications are optimized in terms of usability just as well as the desktop counterparts watching. It offers many features for security with direct linking that is a single click away. Portable gadgets are more user-friendly the moment it is convenient for people to connect to servers and surf while mobile.
Router
While changing my configuration on the router to include NordVPN was a little complicated I was still able to do it because they have directions on how to do it on their website. It lets me secure every device on my network and do it with one tool. To protect your environments of all your home networks, NordVPN serves as a very fine option.
Security And Privacy
Encryption And Protocols
In my case, the greatest concern for the NordVPN service was its impressive security focus. It works with AES-256 encryption which is widely regarded as the market’s best. By doing so, it reaches a state where hackers are not even able to genuinely penetrate the stored information.
NordVPN offers a set of protocols: IKEv2/IPSec, OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), and the newest NordLynx based on WireGuard. Adding the speed of WireGuard with additional security features is especially great, in my opinion, NordLynx.
No-Logs Policy
Any person who uses a VPN is very much privy to the importance of privacy, thus I was glad to note that Nord operates under a logging policy. This is especially because, as NordVPN operates from Panama, they have no data-retaining laws or guidelines to adhere to. The websites state that they do not monitor, collect or pass on your details as stated in their privacy policy. This has been independently audited, which means that you can have extra assuredness.
Additional Security Features
Kill Switch
The functionality disconnects your device from the internet as soon as the VPN connection is lost in order to prevent data leakage. Of huge importance to me was when I was in other people’s coffee joints with free Wi-Fi access.
Double VPN
Double VPN assigns your traffic through two servers instead of one, so that’s even more secure. While this could slow down detection or processing, for those with high levels of needed security this can be helpful as it introduces another layer of protection.
CyberSec
Browsing security will disable advertisements, trackers, and dangerous websites. It excluded invasive advertisements, and protected me from hackers in the process; it made my browsing experience much better.
Performance And Speed
Speed Test Results
A VPN’s speed is an important consideration. I tested NordVPN’s performance several times on various servers. My findings are as follows.
Local Server (New York, USA)
- Ping: 20ms
- Download Speed: 85 Mbps
- Upload Speed: 75 Mbps
International Server (London, UK)
- Ping: 100ms
- Download Speed: 70 Mbps
- Upload Speed: 60 Mbps
Long-Distance Server (Tokyo, Japan)
- Ping: 200ms
- Download Speed: 60 Mbps
- Upload Speed: 50 Mbps
In general, NordVPN was incredibly fast. Despite the significant slowdown when connecting to distant servers, the performance was still more than sufficient for surfing, gaming, and streaming.
Streaming And Torrenting
Since I am a great lover of streaming, I was curious to note how geo-restrictive content is handled by NordVPN. I tried it with BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Netflix, as well as Amazon Prime Video. In every instance, NordVPN could bypass any geographic limitation, and I could watch HD content without any buffering.
Like most VPNs, NordVPN relies on dedicated P2P-optimized servers for torrenting. The extra options forming the kill switch and the IP leakage prevention pleased me and my Internet speeds were always fast.
Compatibility And Apps
Currently, NordVPN has applications for most of the devices and operating systems. I tried it on my network and Windows, macOS, iOS and Android. Also provided a brief of my experience as outlined below.
Windows And macOS
The desktop applications for Windows and macOS are very stylish and very easy to navigate. The app allows them to make navigation to other options such as the server list, split-tunnelling, and the kill switch easy.
iOS And Android
The applications are to the same extent convenient as those working on the desktop ones. Several security measures and one-click connections entice consumers and components are delivered.
Router
It was slightly more challenging to configure NordVPN on my router but the numerous articles on their website made it a little easier to do. This lets me protect each device on my network.
Customer Support Of Nordvpn
I received a prompt reply from customer service which I thought helped me improve my experience with NordVPN. They have customer support online via live chat round the clock and I still had a civil and helpful conversation. Throughout the passage of this collaboration, we exchanged numerous kinds of questions, and with every question, they provided me with relevant and comprehensive answers on time.
Furthermore, on their website, they have a wealth of information and they are available for a live chat. It has frequently asked questions, instructions on setting up the appliance and some tips for addressing problems. The articles were detailed and written professionally so it became easy for me to deal with matters on my own.
My Customer Support Experience
Once I was having issues with connecting to a specific server. When I became their live chat assistant they did not take long to reply when I tried to get through to them. A service agent I spoke with on the phone took me through how to solve the problem, and the problem was solved in about five minutes. I was particularly pleased with this kind of customer support service, which only strengthened my perception of this service’s worth in NordVPN.
Pricing And NordVPN Subscription Plans
Here are the details of the ‘Complete’ plan. The other two plans are also available which are ‘Plus’ and ‘Basic’.
- Monthly Plan: $14.99 per month
- 1-Year Plan: $6.99 per month (billed annually at $83.88)
- 2-Year Plan: $5.39 per month (billed biennially at $129.36)
- Get up to 69% off 2-year plans + a Saily eSIM data gift
NordVPN has a couple of periods of discounts and promos to make the subscription much cheaper. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee which means that the service has to be tried out with no adverse contractor take on the risk on the project. It is a great offer to test the service without making a long-time commitment and the business knows it.
Major Advantages Of Nordvpn
- Robust Security and Privacy: It provides the best protection system with AES-256 encryption, no-log policy, and such options as Double VPN and CyberSec.
- Fast Speeds: NordVPN provides fast connections which will be suitable for torrenting, gaming, and streaming.
- Broad Server Network: As of now, there are a number of possibilities, the NL servers total over 5400 PCs across fifty-nine different countries.
- User-Friendly Interface: For those who are new to VPN, the applications’ screen is comprehensible and very easy to navigate.
- Fantastic Customer Support: An immense knowledge pool associated with quick live chat support indicates that help is never far away.
NordVPN – Application Of The Concepts
Daily Browsing And Work
I mobilize the Internet in several ways including banking, mail and exploring. This made me feel relieved because everything I was engaging in was being shielded by NordVPN. With CyberSec, I was protected from unwanted ads and, possibly, spyware, while the kill switch guaranteed no leak of data at the potential loss of connection.
Streaming
I do a lot of streaming in my daily schedule and NordVPN has enhanced it. I found it very easy to get materials from several countries because geo-restriction would not hinder me. NordVPN did not introduce any buffering issues during the course of my streaming with Hulu, BBC iPlayer, or even Netflix US. Because the connection is optimized for streaming, SmartPlay is enabled automatically, making watching my favourite movies and television shows easier.
Torrenting
Another advantage that has to be mentioned is that NordVPN supports P2P file sharing. I found that it works pretty fine with other torrent clients as well since it was incredibly fast when I tested it. There are P2P servers that are meant for torrent and they enable the user to download quickly and securely. There was also a guarantee when it came to the strength of the encryption as well as the no-logs policy that was exercised to ensure that my operations were concealed.
Travel And Public Wi-Fi
Public Internet connections that are available when on the move are often necessary but unsafe. Altogether, NordVPN cooled me out, saving my connection and hiding my data from potential threats. It is always convenient to connect to a hotel, café, or airport and when doing these, my private data was secure with NordVPN. This is especially so when on the move to access important websites such as online banking.
Advanced Features
Encrypted Servers
It can be very hard to get the Internet on a certain freedom like the ones witnessed in places like China or the Middle East which has intensive filtration of the Internet. In order to avoid these issues, the servers of NordVPN encrypt VPN data as regular internet traffic. During my testing of this feature outside China on some of the banned websites I was able to access them freely.
Split Tunneling
When using split tunneling, you can set some of your traffic to pass through the VPN and the rest of the traffic goes directly to the Internet. It safeguards other browsing processes while being useful in such operations as streaming local content or conducting banking operations. A particularly noteworthy in this context is that this feature enabled me to achieve almost an optimal balance between security and performance.
Onion Over VPN
The Onion Over VPN option is also available from NordVPN for such audiences and is available for people who need extra privacy. This keeps you safe by directing traffic through the VPN server and the Tor network which optimizes anonymity. Although using this option causes your connection to slow down, it is especially helpful for people who are very concerned about their privacy.
Comparison: Nordvpn VS Competitors
ExpressVPN
Another famous VPN in the competitive VPN market is ExpressVPN – one of the fastest services with an emphasis on the security of users. Despite being a bit pricey, ExpressVPN cannot outweigh NordVPN since it offers in addition to the usual package broader server list, and some additional features like CyberSec and Double VPN. But it is worth mentioning that ExpressVPN did provide much faster speeds on some of the servers. Also, they are cheaper, especially if you consider signing up for a long-term subscription with a provider.
CyberGhost
It is one of the simplest Virtual Private Networks available on the market focused on privacy and streaming. Although CyberGhost has a more user-friendly interface it may be easier for NordVPN as it is superior in terms of enclosed functions and more stable connection. The key thing that speaks in favour of NordVPN in comparison with CyberGhost is the availability of the encrypted servers and the NordLynx protocol support.
Surfshark
Surfshark has a reputation for providing an unlimited number of connections at an affordable fee. If you wish to save some money, NordVPN is the best option on a low budget, it just works and outperforms Surfshark in speed, server count, and modern security. Yet, it may become a crucial option for users requiring to connect multiple devices at the same time while not being charged additional money for it.
Final Thoughts
Security: If there’s one thing NordVPN loves, it’s the idea of privacy & security, as encapsulated by its advanced AES-256 encryption, no-logging policy, and Additional features such as Double VPN and CyberSec.
Performance: NordVPN consistently provides fast connection velocities sufficient for gaming, streaming and torrenting despite occasional loss of speed on distant servers.
Usability: However, no matter how much formal education you are fluent in computers or not, it is easy to set up and use NordVPN mainly because their applications are compatible with multiple devices.
Support: Any concerns are dealt with immediately because of the vast information repository and around-the-clock live chat support.
Value: All the long-term plans are relatively cheap, even if the monthly plan is rather expensive.
Let’s Conclude
I have completed several months of trials with NordVPN. It is one of the market’s most reputable VPNs to date. Thus, it’s the best solution for novices and experienced users due to its high levels of security, great speed, and simple interface.
NordVPN shields your Internet connection while providing a strong and stable connection VPN service. This is especially an investment that one needs to make to ensure his or her privacy, access geo-restricted sites, and protected internet connection.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is NordVPN Safe?
Yes, NordVPN is easily among the safest providers of VPN services currently in the market. It has zero logging, uses AES-256 encryption, and provides such additional services as CyberSec, a kill switch, and a Double VPN.
2. How to Use NordVPN with Netflix
Nord VPN works with Netflix and can be used to unblock various Netflix regions around the world. I tried it with Netflix in the USA, UK and Japan and it worked seamlessly in all the cases.
3. How Many Connected Devices Can I Have With NordVPN?
Nord VPN enables the user to connect six devices at once with the same subscription. While most users won’t need more than this, if you are among the few who need it, consider getting the NordVPN app put on your router to protect any device within the network.
4. Is NordVPN Worth The Price?
Fast and reliable, user-friendly with advanced security features Nord VPN is relatively cheap if you purchase servers for a longer period. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee to help you try it risk-free.
5. Can I Use NordVPN In China?
Yes, the complicated servers of NordVPN are special optimizations for unblocking internet censorship in countries like China. During the test of this feature, I visited China and the blocked sites were not a problem at all.
Also Read: 5 Things You Should Know Before Using A VPN
