NordVPN review 2024: fast and secure, feature-packed VPN

NordVPN latest version was released on October 7, 2024, for Mac (version 8.28), and Windows on October 15, 2024 (version 7.29). This VPN works across all major operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Smart TVs, and routers. With a cloaked IP address and fully encrypted data, you can unblock foreign content using a remote VPN server.

In 2024, I bought NordVPN and spoke to my contacts within NordVPN to clarify missing or unclear information and write this detailed review. I also drew on years’ of experience reviewing VPN products, comparing NordVPN’s features to the other VPNs I’ve tested, including Surfshark, TotalVPN, and 15+ other VPN providers. Thanks to its top-tier support for HD streaming, responsive gaming, and high-speed torrents, I recommend NordVPN to all types of users, whether for individual use or for the protection of friends and family.

What I liked about NordVPN:

✅ Speed retention up to 96% with NordLynx
✅ Built-in ad and tracker blocking
✅ IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection
✅ Reliably hides your IP address
✅ Works in restrictive countries like China and Iran
✅ Unblocks Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, and more
✅ Intuitive app for different devices
✅ 30-day money-back guarantee

What I didn’t like about NordVPN:

❌ No free version beyond a 30-day guarantee
❌ Not the biggest server fleet
❌ Free trial only available on Android

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NordVPN overview

To test NordVPN, I began with an Alienware Aurora R16 running Windows 11, and an 8 GB Macbook Air (13-inch, M3, 2024) on macOS Sonoma 14.7. I also downloaded the NordVPN app for iOS and Android, which performed equally as well as the desktop client. I also reached out to NordVPN to clarify how features worked, and I was impressed with their patience and willingness to help. Below, you’ll find the tests I performed and the full breakdown of how well NordVPN fared in speed, security, and unblocking capability.

How much does NordVPN cost per month?

NordVPN’s pricing starts at $2.99/month but can increase to $2.99/month if you opt for a plan with more features. However, any of NordVPN’s three subscription plans are a strong choice for robust security:

• NordVPN Basic is the most affordable plan ($2.99/month).
• NordVPN Plus is the most popular plan ($3.89/month).
• NordVPN Ultimate is the most expensive but offers the most features ($5.89/month).

Regardless of your plan, you can choose a 1-month, 1-year, or 2-year subscription. While not the cheapest VPN, NordVPN sits somewhere in the middle, striking a balance between functionality and affordability. If you’re wondering which NordVPN package is best, I recommend the best-value 2-year plan. Plus, NordVPN has regular offers and coupon codes to get you the best price possible.

NordVPN has a free 7-day trial for Android devices, which gives you access to all premium features. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee that lets you use the VPN free for a month if you decide to cancel. I would like to see this free trial extended to devices, as it has historically only covered Android users; however, you can use the money-back guarantee to try NordVPN free for 30 days regardless of platform.

You’ll have to provide payment details for the NordVPN free trial, but you can cancel before you’re charged.

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NordVPN Basic vs Plus vs Ultimate plans differences

• NordVPN’s Basic plan provides essential VPN services, while the Plus plan includes a password manager (NordPass) and threat protection.
• The Ultimate plan offers all the features of Plus, along with extra cloud storage (NordLocker) and identity theft protection with cyber insurance coverage.

NordVPN Basic offers a secure, high-speed VPN connection with built-in Threat Protection and support for up to 10 devices. Threat Protection is an anti-malware tool that blocks annoying ads, internet trackers, and malicious websites.

NordVPN’s Basic and Plus plans include similar benefits. However, I spoke to NordVPN to confirm that the Plus plan adds the following features:

• Anti-malware protection: NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature can block malicious websites and scan files for malware before you download them.
• Advanced browsing protection: Includes phishing protection, referencing a list of known malicious websites to keep you safe.
• Ad and tracker blocker: Capable of blocking annoying and potentially malicious ads, while stopping the third-party trackers that cause them.
• NordVPN’s cross-platform password manager: Like NordVPN, Nordpass works across all major devices. It’s the safest way to store your passwords, and you can even choose new, secure ones.
• Data breach scanner: Checks the web to see whether any of your information has been compromised so that you can act fast before it has a chance to escalate.

In my opinion, NordVPN Basic is sufficient for day-to-day use as it includes the core components that matter most like the kill switch, robust encryption, and malware detection. This consists of a VPN that’s fast enough for any activity, malware protection, and tools to block annoying ads and trackers that threaten your privacy.

The NordVPN Ultimate plan also adds 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage. This facility is invaluable for securely protecting sensitive personal documents like my ID and statements. You also gain up to $1million in assistance with identity theft recovery costs, plus protection of up to $100k for cyber extortion. For day-to-day users, I recommend opting for the Basic or Plus plan, as the additional features are helpful enhancements that simplify and strengthen your digital experience but aren’t essential for achieving robust online security.

In summary, NordVPN Basic gives you NordVPN with Threat Protection, which blocks ads and malicious websites. The Plus plan adds on NordPass – a reliable password manager that performed well in my tests. Finally, NordVPN Ultimate includes all of the above with NordLocker – secure cloud storage – and cyber insurance. Average users will find sufficient security from the Basic and Plus plans, with all the crucial security tools like a kill switch, robust encryption, zero data logging, and specialty servers. However, the two-year NordVPN Plus plan subscription offers the best value for money.

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Is NordVPN a safe VPN?

• NordVPN is a secure VPN provider due to its AES-256 encryption protocol, no-logs policy, and security features such as Double VPN and CyberSec.
• It is a reliable VPN that does not track or log your browsing activity.

NordVPN is a completely safe VPN that uses all of the key security features a VPN needs to protect you. This includes secure 256-bit AES encryption – the same kind used by militaries – an independently audited no-logs policy, a kill switch, and split tunneling to control which apps use your VPN connection.

These features work together to ensure your IP and true identity remain hidden. As a result, NordVPN suffers no IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks, while successfully unblocking every website and streaming service I’ve tested. To be sure that NordVPN doesn’t collect data, I also analyzed their privacy policy and reached out to customer support for clarification, with a detailed analysis following.

NordVPN privacy policy analysis

• NordVPN does not collect, sell, or monitor your browsing data.
• It is based and operates under the jurisdiction of Panama (Not in the Five Eyes or Fourteen Eyes).

NordVPN does not log identifying user information, as is evident from a review of its privacy policy. This document clearly explains what information will be collected – your username and email address, a timestamp, and connectivity information. There’s nothing that could truly be tracked to you, and it’s even safer if you use a throwaway email address service. RAM-only servers offer further protection, as they’re incapable of data storage, so they can’t log your traffic.

NordVPN’s no-log policy has been independently audited as recently as 2024. I was also relieved to see that the provider is headquartered in Panama, outside the 14-Eyes Alliance, so it is not forced to gather data or spy on users. In October 2024, its privacy policy was tested when the Panamanian authorities served a warrant requiring NordVPN to hand over user data. This is a very rare occurrence, so I reached out to NordVPN to confirm whether any data was disclosed. However, due to the robust privacy protections in place, I’m pleased to confirm that no identifying information could be provided.

Based on my findings from NordVPN’s privacy policy, users can’t be tracked online if you choose NordVPN to protect your privacy. Its leak protection, kill switch, and zero logs won’t expose your true location, while its location in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction means that your data can’t be logged without you knowing about it. Simply connect to a server to change your IP address and enjoy anonymity online.

Protect your privacy with NordVPN

Does NordVPN effectively hide your IP address?

• NordVPN effectively hides your IP address by routing your internet traffic through a remote server.
• With NordVPN’s dedicated IP, your internet traffic is encrypted, and your true IP address and virtual location are concealed.

NordVPN will effectively hide your IP address and location, increasing your privacy when using the internet. It does so by combining a number of privacy features:

Encryption: NordVPN uses AES-256 bit encryption, widely regarded as one of the most secure methods. Used by militaries and governments, this encryption method is very efficient and doesn’t greatly impact connection speeds. It’s also broadly compatible with many operating systems. Encryption uses data scrambling to make your data unreadable, including your IP.

Tunneling protocols: NordVPN offers the industry-standard OpenVPN protocol and IKEv2/IPsec, which is well-suited to mobile devices. Then, there’s NordLynx, a proprietary protocol based on WireGuard that has high speeds and robust security. When you connect to NordVPN, your traffic is routed through a secure tunnel, making it unreadable. Your IP address is replaced with a new one by your VPN server, hiding your actual address.

Kill switch: A kill switch cuts your internet connection if your VPN connection drops for any reason. If you don’t have one, your true IP address will become visible to websites you visit. By cutting your internet, NordVPN prevents this from happening – though VPN dropouts with a premium service like this are not common.

I tested NordVPN’s encryption, protocols, and kill switch with browserleaks.com. This free and highly reliable service comprehensively checks for any IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks on your internet connection. NordVPN consistently passes every test, shielding your true IP address without fault.

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Is NordVPN safe for torrenting?

• NordVPN is a top choice for torrenting, thanks to its dedicated P2P-optimized servers that ensure fast, secure, and anonymous downloads.
• Choose from 2 reliable protocols for torrenting: OpenVPN and NordLynx.

Yes, NordVPN fully supports torrenting and is the safest VPN for P2P file sharing. You’ll find dedicated torrenting servers in the NordVPN server list that have faster speeds and enhanced security. They’ll keep you safe from DDoS attacks or being tracked by other users in your torrent swarm.

NordVPN’s P2P servers have a number of benefits that boost your safety and overall experience. Automatic rerouting connects you to the highest-speed P2P server if yours slows down. The provider also optimized bandwidth for P2P traffic, and these servers have the same powerful 256-bit AES encryption and kill switch as any other NordVPN server.

Look for NordVPN’s dedicated torrenting servers in the VPN client by scrolling down the left-hand side of your dashboard, beside the server map. Click on “P2P” to immediately connect to the best torrenting server available, or click the three dots to view tens of different servers across different countries.

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NordVPN speed test

• NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs on the market.
• Average download speed: 476 Mbps.
• Average upload speed: 378 Mbps.

Your VPN connection’s speed can be affected by your own network, any congestion on your network, and your own ISP throttling (slowing down) your connection. It can also vary based on the server’s location, how many people are connected to it, and the VPN protocol and encryption settings you choose. However, all VPNs generally impact your speed because your internet traffic is routed through an additional server to cloak your IP.

NordVPN’s speeds leave no room for disappointment, with an average of 467 Mbps download speed across all locations. Even my upload speed, which is often quite a bit lower, averaged at 378 Mbps. I performed these tests using NordVPN with speedtest.net, which provides reliable speed readings.

These impressive speeds make NordVPN a solid choice regardless of your needs, whether browsing, torrenting, streaming, or gaming. I’ve played the latest Black Ops 6 shooter and streamed international content libraries from Netflix and Prime Video without lag or disconnects.

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NordVPN streaming sites unblocking results

• NordVPN is a reliable choice for unblocking Netflix in 2024.
• With 111 countries (including 1,970+ in the US, 440+ in the UK), you’re sure to find a nearby server and stream your favorite shows or movies smoothly.

NordVPN can unblock every streaming service, including Netflix, Disney+, Max, Sling TV, Peacock, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and numerous others. Even Netflix’s anti-VPN software is no match for NordVPN’s unblocking capabilities, thanks to IP cloaking features, a working kill switch, and obfuscated servers.

I tested Netflix first, and I could access and stream other content libraries in the US, Europe, and even Japan from my location in the UK. Since NordVPN is the fastest VPN available, with a speed retention of 96% in my tests, all streams loaded quickly and played without lag or buffering. Sports users will be relieved – NordVPN works with NBA, NFL, and MLB streams on ESPN+, Sling TV, and other top sports streaming platforms!

NordVPN not working with Netflix? First, try a different NordVPN server. Occasionally, a server can get blocked while the rest of them continue to work effectively. If you continue encountering problems, I recommend contacting NordVPN support. I always get a response within minutes on 24/7 live chat.

Unblock Netflix and more with NordVPN

How many servers does NordVPN have?

• NordVPN has 7000 in 118 countries, including 1,970+ in the US, 440+ in the UK, and many others.

NordVPN has over 7000 servers in over 118 countries around the world. This puts NordVPN among the premium VPNs with the biggest server fleets. Based on my experience reviewing over 15 VPN providers, Private Internet Access is top of the list, with a number that is rarely disclosed. CyberGhost is second with around 11700 servers, and NordVPN comes in third. However, NordVPN’s fleet is split into specialty servers optimized for double VPN, obfuscation, and P2P file sharing, and its speeds are second to none.

When you combine this extensive server fleet with NordVPN’s ability to unblock any streaming platform from anywhere, your content streaming opportunities are endless. This vast network also lends itself well to gaming and torrenting, allowing you to access the highest-speed servers that avoid lag, protect you from DDoS attacks, and let you find new matchmaking lobbies.

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NordVPN app interface on different devices

• With a single NordVPN account, you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.
• NordVPN supports all the major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android or Android TV app.
• I’d like to see split tunneling available on iOS devices, though this is a shared problem with other VPN providers and due to Apple’s restrictions.

NordVPN supports a large range of devices, including Android and iOS, Windows and macOS, and numerous smart TVs, game consoles, TV sticks, and routers. Even better, it can be used simultaneously on anything from a single device to ten/10 devices, allowing families to protect everyone’s phone, computer, or console. Installing the software is easiest on an everyday device like a laptop, desktop computer, or smartphone. However, the process to install NordVPN on a router is more complicated. Read our guide for step-by-step instructions.

Since NordVPN has a dedicated app for Apple, Android, and Fire TVs, you can simply download it from the app store for your TV. This will either be the App Store or Google Play Store, or you can search for it by name on a Fire TV to connect your device.

I’ve tested NordVPN on various devices, including those mentioned above – Android, Windows, iPhone, and Mac. Below, I’ll share my findings for each device.

NordVPN for Android and iPhone

• To use NordVPN on your Android phone, simply download the app from the Google Play Store, log in, and connect to a server of your choice.
• For iPhone: get the NordVPN app from the App Store, sign in with your account, and select a server to connect to.

I tested NordVPN on an iPhone 15 Pro Max and Google Pixel 9. The mobile version of the VPN looks largely the same as the desktop version, making for a consistent and user-friendly experience across platforms. The server map is present on mobile just like a desktop, allowing you to quickly scan the globe and click on a server.

The only noticeable difference is that split tunneling is missing on iOS devices. This is due to limitations imposed by Apple’s security practices on the iOS operating system, which is largely the same as all other VPNs. However, all other features are present and accounted for on the Android OS.

Most settings are in the small cog menu, which is visible when entering your profile. Here, you can change your VPN protocol and decide whether auto-connect is enabled so your connection is always on. If you need to access a specialty P2P or Onion over a VPN server, these are found beneath the server map on the dashboard, under “Specialty servers.” All in all, I found it very easy to work my way around and find the servers I needed.

Access NordVPN’s specialty servers >

NordVPN for Windows and Mac

• NordVPN works with Windows 7 Service Pack 1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 (version 1607 or later), and Windows 11.
• Supports macOS 11 Big Sur, macOS 12 Monterey, macOS 13 Ventura, and macOS Sanoma 14 and above.

NordVPN works seamlessly across both Windows and Mac computers – I tested the app on a MacBook Air (2024) 13-inch M3 computer and an Alienware PC running Windows 11. The interface looks practically identical on both devices, with the server map occupying most of the UI on both operating systems.

The differences between Windows and macOS versions of NordVPN are a little broader due to Apple’s vice grip over what developers can do on iOS. As well as missing split tunneling, macOS users have fewer VPN Protocol options – though NordLynx is present on both versions and is the fastest protocol anyway.

Aside from those minor differences, the experience was very similar across all major platforms – iOS, macOS, Windows, and Android. Additionally, you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, making the user journey feel smooth even if you’re bouncing from one operating system to another throughout the day.

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Additional features you get with NordVPN

Beyond the advanced VPN protection offered by all plans, NordVPN includes additional features that strengthen your online security further:

• Threat Protection Pro: Automatically scans files you download for malware, and blocks access to malicious websites, to protect you from phishing and other threats.
• Dark Web Monitor: Always-on monitoring for the dark web checks if your personal information has been compromised.
• Meshnet: Establishes secure connections between your devices so you can share files and collaborate cross-device without risk.
• Split tunneling: Lets you specify which apps use the VPN connection while others connect directly to the internet, offering speed and flexibility perks.
• NordProtect: Integrated identity theft protection service available to NordVPN users in the US.
• NordStellar: Cybersecurity platform providing real-time monitoring and response to online threats directed at your company or personal use.

Depending on the plan you choose, these features could be unavailable. So, I recommend opting for the NordVPN Plus or NordVPN Ultimate plans for optimum security at great value for money.

Is NordVPN good enough in 2024: final verdict

NordVPN is currently the best VPN you can purchase in 2024. NordVPN excels at streaming, gaming, torrenting, and day-to-day web browsing. There can be snags, like when an oppressive country such as China, or a website with anti-VPN tech like Netflix manages to block a server. However, these problems affect all VPNs and are resolved quickly. I’ve also checked user feedback on sites like Reddit, and the general consensus tends to align with my opinion – NordVPN is more than good enough to protect you from online threats in 2024.

NordVPN for torrenting ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – supports torrenting on its P2P-optimized servers

NordVPN is fully optimized for torrenting and doesn’t block P2P traffic. Every NordVPN server is capable of delivering the high speeds needed for torrenting. Enjoy robust protection from malware threats and tracking while connecting to file-sharing communities.

NordVPN for streaming ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – capable of unlocking every streaming platform

NordVPN can unblock every streaming platform I’ve tested, including Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Sling TV, Peacock, and Max. It can unblock BBC iPlayer, ITVX, and others outside the US. Unblock live sports and international content libraries with ease.

NordVPN for gaming ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – provides the fastest VPN experience with unlimited bandwidth

Enjoy stable pings and lightning-fast connections as you decimate the competition – NordVPN is well-suited to fast-paced online gaming, with zero lag and DDoS protections. You can even bypass skill-based matchmaking and find bot lobbies in COD.

NordVPN for betting ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – successfully unblocks sports betting and casino platforms

NordVPN unblocked every sports betting and casino site I tested, including DraftKings, FanDuel, William Hill, Bet365, and PokerStars. You need to change your IP address and bypass statewide gambling bans or place bets while on vacation.

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FAQ about NordVPN

Does NordVPN block ads?

Yes, NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro feature includes an ad blocker in its Plus and Ultimate plans. This can block YouTube ads and other annoying pop-up and banner adverts. You can enable this by clicking the shield icon in the NordVPN client to start blocking ads and enjoying your content without interruptions.

Does NordVPN have an antivirus?

Yes, NordVPN has Threat Protection Pro that scans for malware, blocks threats with real-time protection, and stops phishing, annoying adverts, and trackers. It will also scan for malware in files you download and block dangerous websites before they can infect your computer. These features are included in NordVPN’s best-value Plus and Ultimate plans.

Does NordVPN hide your IP address?

Yes, when you connect to a NordVPN server, it will hide your IP address and secure your connection. Instead, websites you visit online will see the VPN server’s location. This makes it easy to unblock streaming services in the US if you’re located elsewhere. It also improves your privacy by hiding your internet traffic from your ISP.

Is NordVPN safe from the government?

Yes, NordVPN is safe from the government and other agencies, as it keeps no identifying information on its users. Based in Panama, a country that doesn’t comply with strict data retention laws, NordVPN can operate without facing any risk from government requests. I’ve verified that its kill switch and IP leak protection work correctly, ensuring your data remains safe from law enforcement and foreign agencies.

Can I use NordVPN on multiple devices?

Yes, you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with a single NordVPN account. This allows you to enjoy online privacy on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android with just one account. NordVPN also supports connections on smart TVs, Fire Sticks, and routers, making it ideal for families who want to secure multiple devices at once.

Can you use NordVPN in China?

Yes, you can use NordVPN in China, but be aware that connectivity may be affected due to the country’s legal restrictions on VPN usage. The state actively blocks VPNs that do not cooperate with its expectations and attempts to limit access to state-blacklisted sites. However, NordVPN continues to work despite these obstacles.

Is NordVPN good for the USA?

Yes, NordVPN is a great option for users in the USA, with over 1,970 servers located in the country – a great deal larger than many competing VPNs. Based on my extensive testing and other leading experts at VPNpro, it consistently delivers high-definition, lag-free streaming, making it suitable for unblocking and watching movies on US platforms, online gaming, and torrenting. Robust security features ensure you’re never tracked, nor your data logged.