Are you looking forward to an honest opinion of NordVPN? Are you looking for a detailed review of NordVPN? If yes, I can help you out.
VPNs are critical tools to have in your cybersecurity arsenal. VPNs conceal your identity and protect your browsing history. In this review, I take a detailed look at NordVPN, one of the leaders of the VPN industry.
NordVPN has a lot to recommend it. For example, the business is based in Panama, which is not subject to any monitoring countries.
Additionally, we know that it has a history of dependability. Let’s see whether NordVPN is still as excellent as its reputation implies and how it compares to other leading VPN providers.
Content Outline
NordVPN Review 2025: What is NordVPN?
NordVPN is headquartered in Panama and claims to have over 12 million users globally. This business, founded in 2008, employs a lot of programmers, security experts, and information technology architects.
NordVPN was founded by four globetrotting childhood friends with a single mission: to make the internet as free as possible. They want a geo-restricted, hacker-free, and censorship-free internet.
The NordVPN team provides a free emergency VPN connection to journalists working in countries with heavy restrictions and gives free or reduced subscriptions to human rights activists and charity groups. It now operates 5000+ servers in 60+ countries and on all continents except Antarctica.
Major Features and Benefits of Using NordVPN
Here are the best features of NordVPN:
1. Netflix Support Is Constantly Being Updated:
The issue with Netflix is that it seems to despise customers who use VPNs to circumvent regional content limitations. The business attempts to ban VPN users, which NordVPN recognizes and works tirelessly to assist its customers in accessing Netflix material.
Indeed, it maintains an entire website outlining how to access regional content. The instructions are subject to change, so if you have Netflix problems when using NordVPN, make sure to check that page!
2. Acceptance Of Cryptocurrencies And Cash As Payment:
I’m not very concerned with whether VPNs allow payment by bank draft, credit card, or check, but I am pleased that, apart from cryptocurrencies, NordVPN accepts payments in cash in selected areas. If you live in the United States of America, you may pay with cash at Micro Center or Fry’s Electronics.
The business accepts 3 different types of cryptocurrencies: Ripple, Etherum, and Bitcoin.
These 2 payment methods are critical since they are undetectable. After all, what you are looking for is privacy and security, right?
3. Connect Six Devices Across a Variety of Platforms:
For the majority of us, we can anticipate utilizing a VPN on a limited number of devices at a time. At a minimum, on a single computer and a mobile device. Then others are gadget-obsessed, possessing a PC, a laptop, two cellphones, two tablets, and who knows what else.
NordVPN caters to everyone and allows for up to six simultaneous connections per account. This means you may protect each device separately and then combine them on your network for good measure.
There are many platform kinds supported, so anything you have should work well. The sole exception is routers, which are fussier.
4. Double Your Security With a Dual VPN:
By now, you should be acquainted with the fundamental principles of VPNs, so let’s discuss something unique to NordVPN: Double VPN. By connecting two VPN servers, you effectively provide another layer of security.
Your computer/device connects to one VPN server first, then to a second VPN server before reaching its ultimate destination. In this manner, your destination IP address is changed twice and your data is encrypted twice. As I already said, twice the protection!
5. Security is of The Utmost Importance:
NordVPN’s headquarters are in Panama, which, although not essential for the majority of service providers, is critical for VPN services.
Panama has no data retention regulations, and its government does not conduct Internet monitoring (as far as we are aware). This implies that NordVPN is not required by law to maintain records of its customers’ activity – excellent for your privacy!
Apart from their excellent location for privacy, NordVPN also utilizes industry-leading encryption standards. As is the case with all top-tier VPN service providers, they use 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard encryption (AES).
Wait a minute – there’s more – NordVPN further protects your privacy by encrypting customer communications and account information using PGP keys. PGP keys are virtually unbreakable and may be used to encrypt communications between you and NordVPN.
They feature two distinct types of kill switches: a user may now choose whether to stop a specific app or fully disconnect from the Internet in the event of an unexpected dropout (system-wide kill switch).
6. Server Networks
NordVPN runs a large network of over 5,700 servers in more than 60 countries, offering fast and secure global connections. These servers are located in regions such as the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, delivering reliable performance for users everywhere.
They also provide special servers for specific needs:
- Onion Over VPN: Combines VPN security with Tor’s anonymity.
- Obfuscated Servers: Helps bypass censorship by hiding VPN usage.
- P2P Servers: Designed for secure and fast file sharing.
- Dedicated IP Servers: Offers unique IPs for tasks like accessing restricted services.
To protect user privacy, NordVPN uses RAM-only servers, which delete all data with every reboot and follow a strict no-logs policy to avoid tracking user activity.
A smart algorithm is included to automatically find the fastest and best server based on your location and needs.
NordVPN Pricing Plans: How Much Does NordVPN Cost?
NordVPN offers several subscription plans to cater to different user needs. Here’s a breakdown of their current pricing options:
1) 2-Year Plans:
- Prime: $7.89 per month (billed as $213.03 for the first 27 months, including 3 extra months). This plan includes full security features with identity theft insurance and credit monitoring.
- Complete: $4.89 per month (billed as $132.03 for the first 27 months, including 3 extra months). This plan offers advanced protection for browsing devices, passwords, and files.
- Plus: $3.89 per month (billed as $105.03 for the first 27 months, including 3 extra months). This plan provides safer browsing, protected devices, and secure password management.
- Basic: $2.99 per month (billed as $80.73 for the first 27 months, including 3 extra months). This plan offers essential VPN security for daily online activities.
2) 1-Year and 1-Month Plans:
NordVPN also offers 1-year and 1-month subscription options with varying features and pricing. For the most current and detailed information, please visit their official pricing page.
All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service risk-free.
They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. Although NordVPN is not the cheapest VPN available in the market still its features can be considered the best. Also, the option for a 30-day money-back guarantee is not offered by every other VPN.
Is NordVPN a Decent Streaming VPN?
Streaming using NordVPN generally works smoothly. Its SmartPlay technology (or Smart DNS, as it is sometimes known) makes a significant difference when it comes to unblocking streaming media sites.
You do not need to do anything to start it since it is perfectly incorporated within the tool. SmartPlay will be triggered automatically when you attempt to access restricted material.
Additionally, you may utilize this technology on devices that do not support VPN clients. Bear in mind, however, that this will only unlock the sites you need without adding a layer of encryption.
NordVPN does not disappoint either when it comes to server selection. It provides a large number of servers in nations with the greatest streaming libraries.
You’ll be able to view material intended for users in the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Canada, among other important regions.
Additionally, you can install NordVPN on a variety of devices, including the Amazon Firestick and Android TV. The VPN also works with Kodi, since it has NordVPN and OpenVPN addons. Regrettably, the Roku stick is not supported.
NordVPN Speed:
NordVPN is renowned for its high-speed connections, making it suitable for activities like streaming, gaming, and browsing. Here’s an overview of factors influencing its speed and tips to optimize performance:
Factors Affecting Speed:
- Server Proximity: Connecting to a server closer to your physical location generally results in faster speeds.
- Server Load: High user traffic on a server can slow down your connection.
- Original Internet Speed: Your base internet speed sets the ceiling for your VPN connection speed.
- VPN Protocol: The protocol used can impact speed; NordVPN offers several options.
NordVPN’s Speed Capabilities:
- No Speed or Bandwidth Limits: NordVPN does not impose any speed or bandwidth restrictions on users.
- NordLynx Protocol: Based on the WireGuard® protocol, NordLynx is designed to provide faster connection speeds while maintaining strong security. Users have reported improved performance.
Expected Speed Reduction:
Due to encryption overhead, using a VPN can slightly decrease your internet speed. When connected to the nearest server via the OpenVPN UDP protocol, you might experience a 30% speed reduction. Switching to the NordLynx protocol can enhance speeds.
Optimizing Your Connection:
- Choose Nearby Servers: Select servers geographically closer to you to minimize latency.
- Monitor Server Load: Opt for servers with lower user loads for better performance.
- Use NordLynx Protocol: Enable NordLynx in the app settings for potentially faster speeds.
- Check Base Internet Speed: Ensure your non-VPN internet connection is stable and fast.
NordVPN Pros and Cons
Here are some of the pros and cons of NordVPN that you must know:
Pros
- Affordable price
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Dedicated IP options
- Large Server fleet
- Linux Support
- Kill switch on all clients
- Great Support
- Independently audited no-logs policy
- Unlock streaming websites.
Cons
- Linux client has no graphic interface.
Privacy Concern on NordVPN
NordVPN prioritizes user privacy by employing advanced technologies and maintaining transparent practices. Located in Panama, beyond the reach of the Five and Fourteen Eyes alliances, NordVPN strictly follows a no-logs policy that ensures user activities remain unrecorded and unsaved. This dedication is confirmed by independent audits, including a 2023 Deloitte review, which found no data logging.
To enhance user privacy further, NordVPN adopts robust encryption methods, such as AES-256-GCM for OpenVPN and ChaCha20 for its proprietary NordLynx protocol. The service also operates RAM-only servers, guaranteeing that all data is wiped clean upon reboot, and includes features like Double VPN and Onion Over VPN for added security layers.
In 2024, NordVPN introduced post-quantum encryption to its Linux application to protect against future quantum computing risks, with plans to extend this feature to other platforms by early 2025. Additionally, NordVPN has started releasing detailed transparency reports that illuminate legal requests received, reinforcing its dedication to user privacy.
These efforts, along with features like a reliable kill switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscated servers, make NordVPN a solid choice for those seeking comprehensive online privacy and security.
App Performance:
NordVPN delivers strong app performance across a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Apple TV, and various browsers. Its apps are designed to balance simplicity with functionality, providing a seamless experience for both beginners and advanced users.
- Device Compatibility: The app is compatible with nearly any device, including newer platforms like ARM-based Windows devices (e.g., Surface Pro), introduced in 2024.
- Ease of Use: The “Quick Connect” feature makes it easy to connect to an optimal server with a single click. While NordVPN’s apps are user-friendly, they aren’t as minimalistic as some competitors like ExpressVPN.
- Server Selection: Users can manually choose from over 6,700 servers in 111 countries for specific needs.
- Feature-Rich Apps: NordVPN supports advanced options like:
- VPN Protocols: Includes OpenVPN and NordLynx (a proprietary WireGuard-based protocol).
- Split Tunneling: This lets you use the VPN for specific applications while bypassing it for others, enhancing flexibility and speed management.
- Limitations: Some features, like split tunneling, are unavailable on macOS due to system restrictions.
Connections and Usage
NordVPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections per account, which is generous compared to industry standards. While some competitors offer unlimited connections, the limit should suffice for most users, even families or power users.
For broader coverage, installing NordVPN on a router extends the VPN to all connected devices.
Room for Improvement
The Linux app relies on a command-line interface, which may not appeal to users who prefer graphical user interfaces. While this is a niche issue, it reflects a minor area where NordVPN could improve.
Geo-Restrictions with NordVPN
Geo-restrictions often limit users from accessing specific content based on their location. NordVPN effectively enables users to bypass these limitations, allowing them to access a broad array of content that may be blocked in their area.
By connecting to one of NordVPN’s extensive server networks across multiple countries, users can change their virtual location and unlock various restricted websites, apps, or streaming services.
For example, using NordVPN on a MacBook in the UK lets you effortlessly access international Netflix libraries, including those from the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, France, and Germany. In addition, NordVPN supports other popular streaming platforms, providing a rich selection of entertainment options.
Using NordVPN is simple and intuitive: just choose a server from the country where you want to access content, connect through NordVPN, and start browsing or streaming seamlessly.
Furthermore, NordVPN’s extensive server network ensures stable connections and strong encryption, making the process of accessing geo-restricted content both secure and smooth. This blend makes NordVPN ideal for travellers, digital nomads, and entertainment fans seeking diverse online content.
NordVPN Customer Support: How Good Is It?
NordVPN provides a robust customer support system tailored to assist users with a variety of inquiries or technical issues. Their support services are accessible 24/7 through multiple channels to ensure that users receive timely assistance:
- Live Chat: This real-time assistance feature, which allows users to interact directly with support agents, can be accessed via the chat icon on the support page.
- Email Support: Users can submit their queries by filling out a form on the contact page, allowing for detailed explanations of issues they face to be communicated directly.
In addition to personalized support, NordVPN’s Support Center boasts an extensive repository of articles, tutorials, and guides covering numerous topics, which include:
- VPN Setup Tutorials: These detailed instructions cover installing NordVPN on various devices and platforms, catering to different user needs.
- Troubleshooting Guides: These guides provide solutions for common connectivity problems and login difficulties that users might encounter, empowering them to resolve issues independently.
- Billing Information: Comprehensive details regarding subscription management, payment processes, and refund policies, helping users navigate their financial inquiries efficiently.
Although NordVPN does not provide phone support, its live chat and email options are structured to resolve user concerns promptly and effectively. If the live chat button is absent, users are advised to disable any ad-blockers on their browser, as this may resolve the issue and allow access to live support.
NordVPN Customer Reviews
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Conclusion | NordVPN Review 2025
NordVPN is a leading, feature-rich VPN service. Its robust security includes AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and tools like Threat Protection and Double VPN, ensuring a private online experience. With over 5,000 servers in 60 countries, it delivers excellent performance, fast speeds, and effective geo-restriction bypassing.
The service is user-friendly across multiple platforms for both tech-savvy and beginner users. Features like split tunneling, Onion Over VPN, and P2P-optimized servers enhance its suitability for various online activities, including streaming and torrenting.
While its pricing may be higher than some competitors, the value justifies the cost. The 30-day money-back guarantee allows users to explore its features risk-free. Despite occasional server congestion, overall performance and customer support are strong.
For anyone in need of a reliable, secure, and versatile VPN, NordVPN remains a top choice, appealing to privacy enthusiasts, frequent travelers, and streaming fans alike.