NordVPN Review India (2024): Is it the Best VPN for India in 2024?

NordVPN Features Overview

Rating	4.4 out of 5 ⭐️
Speeds	Download speed: 229 Mbps Upload speed: 167 Mbps
No Log	Yes
Audit	Deloitte in 2023
Streaming	Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Zee5, BBC, Hotstar
Servers	6138 servers across 67 nations
Devices	Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, Routers
Pricing	$4.59 per month (1 year plan)
Coupon Code	Get NordVPN for Extra 4 months free

About NordVPN

NordVPN is a top-ranking cybersecurity service provider founded in 2012. The two childhood friends, Tom Okman and Eimantas Sabaliauskas started the company with a mission to provide users with an easily accessible internet security tool.

The jurisdiction is based in Panama, a location outside of any major surveillance alliances. Beyond their core VPN service, NordVPN offers a suite of security products under the Nord Security umbrella, including NordPass (password management), NordLayer (business VPN), and NordLocker (file encryption).

NordVPN Speeds

VPNs often slow down our internet speed due to additional layers of encryption and decryption. However, the speed drop is often negligible for premium VPNs like NordVPN. To confirm, I conducted a speed test using Speedtest.net.

My baseline internet speed was 240 Mbps download and 7 ms ping. Here’s how NordVPN performed:

Location	Download Speed (Mbps)	Upload Speed (Mbps)	Ping(ms)
India (Baseline)	240	240	7
India (NordVPN)	229	167	116
USA (NordVPN)	185	29	263

Speed in India

When connected to the nearest Indian server, I experienced a download speed of 229 Mbps (5% decrease) and an upload speed of 167 Mbps (30% decrease). Ping increased to a moderate 116 ms.

Speed in the US

Connecting to a US server resulted in a download speed of 185 Mbps (23% decrease). Upload speed dropped significantly to 29 Mbps (87% decrease). Ping increased to an average of 263 ms.

Compared to others, NordVPN stands out in:

• Surfshark: NordVPN offers a faster connection (Download: 229 Mbps, Upload: 167 Mbps) compared to Surfshark (Download: 221 Mbps, Upload: 58 Mbps).
• ExpressVPN: On Indian servers, NordVPN boasts faster speeds than ExpressVPN (Download: 220 Mbps, Upload: 71 Mbps).

Overall, NordVPN performed better on Indian servers compared to other VPNs.

NordVPN Servers

Servers Locations

With over 6,138 server lists in 67 countries, NordVPN offers one of the highest server counts among premium VPN providers, like Surfshark and ExpressVPN. Due to Indian regulations about VPN ban that conflict with NordVPN’s no-log policy, the service uses virtual servers instead of physical servers in India.

However, some competitors cover a wider range of countries: Surfshark with 100 and ExpressVPN with 105. While this approach might limit access to some nearby physical servers for global users, virtual servers reinforce their commitment to user privacy.

RAM Servers

NordVPN has implemented 100% diskless servers. These 6000+ RAM-only servers eliminate local data storage, creating a centrally controlled network. When you disconnect from the VPN, you leave behind an empty piece of hardware with no data or configuration files to compromise.

Obfuscated Servers

Some countries or networks restrict VPN usage. Obfuscated servers can help bypass these restrictions by camouflaging your VPN traffic. NordVPN achieves this through techniques like additional SSL/SSH encryption, which hides the VPN identification details within the data packets.

How to enable Obfuscated Servers in NordVPN?

1. Open the NordVPN app.
2. Go to Settings.
3. Navigate to the Connection Options section.
4. Locate the VPN protocol setting and switch it to OpenVPN.
5. Return to the VPN Option on the main screen and click on More Connection Options.
6. Under Specialty Servers, select Obfuscated Servers.
7. NordVPN will automatically connect you to the fastest available obfuscated server.

Dynamic or Static IP Address

NordVPN offers two main types of IP addresses when you connect to their servers:

• Dynamic IP (default): Each time you connect to a NordVPN server, you’ll receive a new IP address. This makes it difficult to track your online activity and location.
• Static IP (additional cost): For businesses or individuals who need to access specific services or resources that require a static IP and need more control, NordVPN offers dedicated IP addresses in select locations.

However, NordVPN’s dedicated IP comes with an additional cost on top of your regular NordVPN subscription.

NordVPN Streaming Performances

Streaming Platform	Yes/No
Netflix	Yes ✅
Hotstar	Yes ✅
JioCinema	Yes ✅
SonyLiv	Yes ✅
Zee5	Yes ✅
Amazon Prime US	Yes ✅

NordVPN offers exceptional compatibility, working on virtually any device you can imagine. This makes it a brilliant choice for streaming content from around the world.

You can enjoy uninterrupted access to popular Indian streaming services like SonyLiv, Zee5, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, and JioCinema. In fact, NordVPN helps to bypass geo-restrictions and access US-only platforms like Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max.

NordVPN supports all major devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even streaming devices like Apple TV. Due to no bandwidth limits, you can stream worry-free!

Privacy

Privacy Policy

NordVPN maintains the highest level of user privacy. Therefore, they only process minimal data to provide flawless service.

As clearly mentioned in their privacy policy, they process the following personal data:

• Email address: Used for registration.
• Subscription data: Includes email address, chosen plan, term, ID, frequency, amount, and auto-renewal status.
• Payment data: Used for collecting payments (date of purchase, payer’s IP address, postal code, redacted credit card information).
• Device information: Used to prevent payment fraud (details not specified).
• Communication data: Used to improve support and send relevant offers (customer support inquiries, chatbot data, and live chat transcripts).

They also collect website usage data such as IP address, browser type, and operating system. This data is used to operate the service securely and reliably, fight DDoS attacks, and prevent hacking attempts.

Overall, I found their privacy policy user-focussed. It clearly explains what data they collect, limiting it only to what’s strictly necessary for the service to function and maintain security. For more clarification, I recommend reading NordVPN’s privacy policy in detail.

No-log Policy

For maximum privacy, a no-log VPN is always the best choice. It does not collect or log any traffic that passes through its servers. NordVPN ranks among the top no-log VPN providers.

They offer a zero-log VPN service, meaning they don’t store usage logs (websites visited, files downloaded, software used) or connection logs (incoming and outgoing IP addresses, amount of data transferred, VPN servers used). This policy safeguards your anonymity and ensures your IP and online activity can’t be tracked in the future.

Security Audits

To verify its no-logs policy, NordVPN has undergone multiple independent security audits by leading firms.

• Deloitte Lithuania Audit (2023): Deloitte, a Big Four firm, conducted an independent assurance engagement on NordVPN’s IT systems and infrastructure. This included reviewing privacy settings for Obfuscated, Double VPN, Standard VPN, Onion Over VPN (TOR), and P2P servers. Deloitte published a positive assurance report on NordVPN’s no-logs policy on December 13th.
• Deloitte Audit (2022): In 2022, Deloitte performed a third independent audit, confirming no violations of NordVPN’s no-logs policy and its commitment to user privacy.
• PwC Audit (2018 & 2020): Previously, PricewaterhouseCoopers AG Switzerland conducted similar audits, verifying the design and implementation of NordVPN’s no-log VPN policy.

To further enhance privacy, security, and transparency, NordVPN has transitioned from a Warrant canary to a transparency report. This report will provide detailed monthly updates on the number of government inquiries and DMCA requests they receive.

NordVPN Headquarter

NordVPN is headquartered in Panama—outside the jurisdiction of both the EU and the US. It’s not part of any intelligence alliances and has zero data retention laws. Therefore, you can browse the web, access online content, and play games with better privacy.

Privacy Comparison

NordVPN adheres to a strict no-log policy and uses advanced technical infrastructure, similar to Surfshark and ExpressVPN. However, NordVPN takes privacy a step further by having its no-log policy independently audited four times, the most out of the three providers.

Surfshark’s headquarters are in the Netherlands (part of the 9-Eyes alliance). This raises some privacy concerns. In contrast, NordVPN’s location outside of such alliances is a significant advantage for privacy-conscious users.

NordVPN History

A security incident happened involving NordVPN’s single server in Finland in January 2018. It was due to a configuration issue at a third-party data center but no user data was affected.

NordVPN officially acknowledged the incident to audiences later in April 2019. They claim this delay was to fix problems and improve security. Other VPN services, like TorGuard, are faster to inform customers about these issues.

After this incident, they’ve implemented strong security measures. They use 100% diskless servers, stronger storage protection, and other improvements. To show their commitment to online security, they’ve had independent checks done twice, and both times got a thumbs up.

NordVPN Security

Security Protocols

NordVPN offers three different security protocols to provide users with maximum privacy and a smooth browsing experience.

• OpenVPN: Combined with the AES-256-GCM encryption algorithm, OpenVPN remains the most widely used and reliable encryption protocol. It can use both UDP and TCP ports, offering a balance of security and speed. As it’s open-source, the code is constantly reviewed and improved.
• NordLynx: Built upon the WireGuard protocol, known for its blazing-fast speeds, NordLynx offers an innovative solution. To address potential privacy concerns with WireGuard, NordVPN incorporates a double NAT (network address translation) system within its infrastructure.
• IKEv2/IPsec: This is a mature and stable protocol that excels at automatically re-establishing a VPN connection when network interruptions occur, making it ideal for mobile devices that frequently switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data. It offers a good balance between security and speed.

DNS Leak Test

The Domain Name System (DNS) translates website names into IP addresses your device can understand. A DNS leak can accidentally reveal your browsing history.

However, a VPN like NordVPN can protect your online privacy by encrypting all your internet traffic, including DNS records. To verify this, I performed a DNS leak test using IPleak.net.

The IP address displayed before connecting to NordVPN differs entirely from the one shown after connecting to an Indian server. It signifies that no DNS leak occurred, and NordVPN has established a secure connection.

Kill Switch

A kill switch is a must-have feature for a VPN to secure your data from accidental exposure due to an internet breakdown. NordVPN’s kill switch is available on all devices—Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. However, it’s not automatically enabled; you’ll need to activate it from the application settings.

Security Comparison with Premium VPNs

NordVPN competes head-to-head with other premium VPNs like Surfshark and ExpressVPN. All three offer essential features like kill switches, strict no-log policies, RAM servers, DNS leak protection, and AES-256 or ChaCha20 encryption.

However, NordVPN presents a larger server network in the US compared to ExpressVPN or Surfshark, making it a potentially more secure choice for users based in the United States.

NordVPN Pricing

Features	NordVPN Basic	NordVPN Plus	NordVPN Complete
Pricing (1 month)	$12.99	$13.99	$14.99
Pricing (1 year)	$59.88 ($4.99/month)	$71.88 ($5.99/month)	$83.88 ($6.99/month)
Pricing (2 year)	$95.76 (3.42/month)	$119.76 ($4.28/month)	$143.76 ($5.13/month)
30-day money-back guarantee	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
10 devices secured at once	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Malware protection	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Tracker and ad blocker	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
NordPass (Cross-platform password manager)	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
NordPass (Data Breach Scanner)	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
NordLocker (1 TB encrypted cloud storage)	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes

NordVPN offers three flexible pricing plans: Basic, Plus, and Complete. To enjoy a secure, high-speed VPN connection, access for up to 10 devices, and threat protection, I recommend the NordVPN Basic 2-year plan. It costs $95.76 in total for 2 years, which reduces the per-month price from $12.99 to just $3.42.

Money-Back Guarantee

NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all its pricing plans. While they don’t provide a free trial like Surfshark, you can get a full refund if you’re not satisfied with their service. However, it’s important to note that the money-back guarantee is only valid for first-time subscribers. If you renew your subscription, you won’t be eligible for a refund under this policy.

Payment Options

Like other premium VPNs, NordVPN accepts a variety of payment options. You can purchase a plan using PayPal, credit cards, Sofort, prepaid debit cards, or even cryptocurrency to keep your credit card details private.

Plus, you can purchase their subscription from retail stores like Best Buy and Target. Mobile users can pay through iTunes or Google Pay.

Competitor Pricing

While NordVPN isn’t the cheapest option like Surfshark, it’s also not the most expensive like ExpressVPN. Surfshark One’s two-year plan with all features costs $2.59 per month. NordVPN Plus (comparable to Surfshark One) is $4.69 per month for a two-year plan. However, ExpressVPN doesn’t offer two-year plans, and their one-year plan is the most expensive at $6.67 per month.

NordVPN Coupon Code

Love getting extra value? I’ve secured an exclusive deal on NordVPN plans for our readers. Purchase through my link and get an extra 4 months of subscription at a discounted price. The coupon code “KRIPESH” will be auto-applied at checkout.

For example, the NordVPN Basic plan can now be availed for just $95.76 for 28 months, not 24. So, the per-month cost is reduced by 70% from $12.99 to $3.33 using my discount coupon.

NordVPN Customer Support

Customer Support Facility	NordVPN
24/7 Live chat support	✅ Yes
Phone Line	❌ No
Email	✅ Yes
FAQs	✅ Yes
Knowledge guide	✅ Yes

Having doubts about the NordVPN application, or troubleshooting? Thankfully, NordVPN offers a wealth of resources on their official website: A detailed knowledge base, comprehensive FAQs, and additional resources.

For immediate assistance, NordVPN provides 24/7 live chat support. While phone calls are unavailable, you can also reach them via email. NordVPN’s Help Center can guide you through general information, billing issues, connectivity problems, and more.

To test their response time, I tried live chat support. You’ll need to submit your email address and name first, and then you might be connected with a helpful bot before reaching a human agent (unlike ExpressVPN, where you can directly connect with a human representative).

However, the bot support is quick. In my experience, when I requested to connect with a human agent, they readily assisted me. The human agents themselves are knowledgeable and provide valuable assistance.

P2P

For an optimal user experience, NordVPN offers hundreds of P2P servers across the globe. It supports all major torrenting clients, including uTorrent, BitTorrent, qBittorrent, Transmission, Vuze, Deluge, and more.

The Windows application allows you to view a list of P2P servers, unlike Surfshark or ExpressVPN. Nord automatically connects you with the fastest server and also lets you choose the one closest to you.

When I connected to a nearby Thailand server, I achieved download speeds of 534.3 Kbps with an estimated time remaining (ETA) of 1 hour 13 minutes for a 1.86 GB file. This shows impressive speeds, and I haven’t encountered any performance issues.

Additional Features

1) Meshnet

Whether you use NordVPN for business or personal purposes, Meshnet is a valuable feature to explore when connecting multiple devices.

It essentially creates a secure local area network (LAN) that allows up to 10 devices from your account and 50 external devices to connect and communicate directly with each other, even across vast geographical distances.

It facilitates seamless workflows that require high speed and low latency due to end-to-end encryption and the absence of middle server storage, Meshnet.

This makes it ideal for tasks like file sharing, multiplayer gaming, and collaborative work. To get started, simply download the NordVPN app and enable the Meshnet option.

2) Threat Protection

Want to protect your devices from malware, trackers, or risky applications? NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature empowers users with advanced antivirus features designed to defend against everyday online cyber threats.

It’s a comprehensive cybersecurity package available with selected NordVPN plans. It uses AI-powered phishing detection tools to offer:

• Web Protection: Keep your device safe with malicious URL blockers, Web tracker blockers, Ad blockers, URL shortener protection, and DNS filtering.
• File Protection: It offers a Virus scanner, Dual-extension detection, and Cloud-based threat detection.
• Vulnerability Detection: NordVPN’s app vulnerability scanner checks your software for potential security risks.

3) Dark Web Monitor

Dark Web Monitor helps in scanning hacker forums, or any dark websites, to prevent leaked credentials. With NordVPN’s Dark Web Monitor, you’ll get notified of danger so that you can secure vulnerable accounts.

It offers 24/7 security, one-click protection, and instant threat alerts. It frequently scans thousands of dark web pages that are known for trading in stolen credentials, looking for any signs of information associated with your NordVPN-registered email address.

4) Private DNS

Private DNS offers you more control over your available IP addresses and network access. It’s vital for online privacy because your ISP’s DNS service can record everything you do online.

NordVPN’s private DNS feature helps shield your online activities, prevents DNS hijacking, encrypts your DNS addresses, stops unwanted DNS filtering, and integrates smart DNS technology.

5) Split Tunneling

For a fast online browsing experience, you can choose to only route sensitive data traffic through the VPN tunnel while allowing other general apps to access the internet directly.

Therefore, NordVPN’s Split Tunneling feature empowers you to customize your digital protection. However, keep in mind that it’s only available for Android, Windows 10 & 11, and Android TV.

iOS and macOS users! Struggling with slow speeds because your VPN doesn’t offer split tunneling? Check out these 11 tried-and-tested hacks to reduce VPN latency and keep your connection smooth.

6) SmartPlay

SmartPlay helps users enjoy their favorite shows worry-free and with enhanced privacy. This automatically enabled feature lets you:

• Access content abroad: Bypass geo-restrictions to access popular streaming services from anywhere.
• Stream safely: Encrypt your online traffic, protecting your data from prying eyes.
• Enjoy a seamless experience: SmartPlay combines the strengths of SmartDNS (efficiently switching servers) and VPN (powerful encryption) to provide a smooth and secure experience.

7) Double VPN

Some users require an extra layer of privacy and IP protection. For these individuals, such as journalists or political activists who need to safeguard their freedom of speech by hiding their identity, or travelers visiting countries with high government surveillance or censorship, NordVPN offers Double VPN.

Double VPN encrypts your internet traffic twice, making it significantly more difficult for snoopers to track your activity.

How to activate Double VPN:

• Open the NordVPN app.
• Navigate to “Specialty Servers.”
• Under this section, you’ll find the Double VPN options. Simply choose the desired server location and connect.

8) MFA Protection

Unlike Surfshark or ExpressVPN, NordVPN offers Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) as an additional security feature. This helps safeguard your Nord account by requiring a second verification step beyond just your password.

Here are the two MFA options available:

1. Generate a time-sensitive code using a trusted authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator
2. Use a physical security key certified by FIDO2 for a more secure and convenient login experience.

9) Onion Over VPN

Feeling overwhelmed by the difference between a VPN and Tor? Curious about Tor (The Onion Router)?

It’s an open-source platform managed by volunteers that anonymizes online traffic. Tor browsers are popular with users who need to protect their identity online, such as political activists investigating opponents or businesses researching competitors.

NordVPN offers the Onion Over VPN feature, a special category of servers that allows you to access the Tor network with increased privacy without needing a separate Tor browser. You can find it under the “Specialty Servers” option within the NordVPN app.

Devices

NordVPN offers a wide range of applications to keep your devices secure. Here’s what’s available:

• Desktop & Laptop: Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Mobile: Android and iOS devices
• Browser Extensions: Chrome, Firefox, and Edge
• Streaming Devices: Android TV and tvOS
• Other Devices: Firestick, Kindle Fire, Xbox, Playstation, Chromebook (and more!)

For ultimate convenience, you can even install NordVPN directly on your router models to protect all your Wi-Fi-enabled devices at once.

User Interface

Devices	User Interface	Experiences
Windows	Tricky for first-time users	All features are categorized into separate options.
macOS	Similar to Windows, but have feature variations.	Limited features in app settings (e.g., no Split Tunneling).
Linux	Command-line interface (CLI)	Includes all essential setup.
Android app	Well-designed	Settings not on the home screen and lacks its own kill switch
iOS app	Intuitive, similar to Android	Settings have more options than other VPNs’ iOS apps.
Browser Extension	Easy-to-install and accessible	More features than other VPNs’ extensions.

Well, I wouldn’t say it’s very user-friendly or intuitive, but you can get used to it. Compared to Surfshark and ExpressVPN, NordVPN’s apps are definitely a little confusing and trickier for first-time users.

For example, the Windows app doesn’t display all settings and features clearly on the home screen. They’re categorized under separate buttons. The connect and disconnect buttons are renamed “Untrust” and “Trust current Wi-Fi,” respectively. So, it can be a little misleading for the users.

While the macOS and iOS mobile apps offer a special feature called “a Favorites system” (helps you group frequently used locations for faster reconnection), they lack “Split Tunneling” options. The map interface also functions differently on these devices.

In short, I found the NordVPN app more suitable for tech-savvy users. Comparatively, Surfshark and ExpressVPN are more user-friendly.

Performance & Reliability

As an active NordVPN subscriber since 2020, I’ve had a very positive experience with their service over the past five years. NordVPN strives to be ahead of the curve compared to other VPN providers by constantly improving its services to offer a more secure and safe browsing experience.

I use NordVPN for streaming, online gaming, and other online activities. It has never disappointed me with its speed and performance. Features like the kill switch, split tunneling, and double VPN are always helpful for maintaining consistent speeds. Additionally, Meshnet, Threat Protection, and Dark Web Monitoring are valuable features that enhance security.

However, I find the NordVPN UI to be a bit trickier to navigate than some competitors. There are also some downsides to be aware of. To learn more, keep reading!

NordVPN Pros

1) Superior Speed

NordVPN ranks among the top 3 fastest VPNs according to expert reviews. In tests, NordVPN shows impressive download speeds of 229 Mbps and upload speeds of 167 Mbps in Indian servers, outperforming competitors like Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and ProtonVPN. Additionally, it experiences minimal speed drops compared to other VPNs.

2) Less Ping

I’ve personally experienced very little speed loss. Whether connecting to distant or nearby servers, the ping remains relatively low, ranging between 116 and 263 milliseconds. This is lower than what you’d typically find with other VPN providers.

3) Strong User Privacy

NordVPN is consistently introducing new security features. Its VPN uses industry-standard AES-256-bit encryption, a kill switch to prevent leaks, a zero-log policy, and top-tier VPN protocols. For additional security, NordVPN offers other cybersecurity tools like NordLayer (business VPN), NordPass (password manager), and NordLocker (encrypted cloud storage) with premium subscriptions.

4) Massive Server Network

Compared to Surfshark and ExpressVPN, NordVPN offers the most extensive server coverage, with over 6,138 servers spread across 67 countries. Notably, it boasts over 1,900 servers in the United States alone, ensuring a high chance of finding a nearby server for optimal speeds.

5) Supports Tor Over VPN

Unlike many other premium VPNs, NordVPN offers Onion Over VPN for users seeking enhanced privacy and anonymity. This feature routes your internet traffic through the Tor network before connecting to a VPN server, providing an additional layer of security.

6) Dedicated P2P Servers

NordVPN is a sound choice for P2P file sharing. It actively supports major torrenting sites and even displays a list of servers optimized for P2P traffic within its applications.

7) Privacy-Friendly Jurisdiction

The headquarters are in Panama. The country is known for lacking mandatory data retention laws and its position outside of major intelligence alliances, further strengthening user privacy.

8) 100% RAM-Based Servers

All of NordVPN’s 6,000+ servers use RAM-only technology. This means data is wiped clean with every server reboot, minimizing the risk of data storage.

9) Most Audited No-Log Policy

Their no-log policy has undergone independent audits four times, most recently in 2023 by Deloitte. These audits confirm NordVPN’s commitment to a clean track record on data privacy.

10) Unmatched Streaming Performance

NordVPN allows you to stream your favorite shows on various platforms, including Indian and international services like Zee5, Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and BBC. You can expect buffer-free streaming even for extended viewing sessions.

11) Built-in Ad & Malware Blocking

The Threat Protection feature provides comprehensive protection. You can activate web protection to block ads, malicious URLs, and trackers. File protection scans for viruses and vulnerabilities within applications. This goes beyond typical ad blockers offered by other VPNs.

12) Unique Features

NordVPN stands out with several unique features alongside its VPN service. Meshnet allows for secure local area network (LAN) connections, while Dark Web Monitor scans hacker forums and dark websites for potential breaches related to your information. Additionally, SmartPlay combines the functionalities of SmartDNS and a VPN for optimized streaming.

NordVPN Cons

1) 2018 Server Breach

NordVPN experienced a security incident involving a single server in Finland in March 2018. However, the company did not publicly acknowledge this until April 2019. While NordVPN has taken steps to strengthen user privacy since then, the delayed disclosure raised concerns.

2) Desktop App Needs Improvement

The NordVPN desktop application’s user interface could benefit from better organization. While all options are categorized into separate buttons (Homepage, VPN, Meshnet, Threat Protection), features like split tunneling, kill switch, and VPN protocol selection are hidden within the Settings menu. A more streamlined interface would improve user experience.

3) Limited Device Connections

NordVPN allows simultaneous connections to up to 10 devices. This may be a limitation compared to competitors like Surfshark, which offer unlimited connections.

4) Split Tunneling Missing on Apple Devices

Split tunneling, a valuable feature that allows you to exclude specific traffic from the VPN tunnel, is currently unavailable on NordVPN’s iOS and macOS apps. This can be inconvenient for users who need to access local network resources while still enjoying the benefits of a VPN.

5) Dedicated IP at Additional Cost

For users requiring a dedicated IP address for enhanced control and management, NordVPN offers this as an add-on service at an extra cost on top of the regular subscription plan.

NordVPN Alternatives

1. Surfshark

Surfshark and NordVPN both offer the core VPN features you need: a kill switch to prevent leaks, split tunneling for selective VPN applications, strong encryption protocols, and a zero-log policy to safeguard your privacy. However, Surfshark stands out in two key areas.

First, unlike NordVPN’s limit of 10 devices, Surfshark lets you secure all your devices simultaneously, from laptops and phones to tablets and smart TVs.

Second, Surfshark can be significantly cheaper than NordVPN, especially with long-term plans. Their 2-year subscription to Surfshark One, which bundles antivirus software, a secure search engine, and identity monitoring with the VPN, can be as low as $3.06 per month using my link.

However, NordVPN offers a slightly larger server network (over 6,000 servers in 67 countries) than Surfshark’s 3,200+ server network. Additionally, Surfshark has its own extra features (camouflage mode, CleanWeb, NoBorders mode) just like NordVPN’s exclusive features (Meshnet, Dark Web Monitor, SmartPlay, Onion over Tor).

2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN boasts a network of 3,000+ servers across 105 countries, ensuring smooth connections from almost anywhere in the world. Their servers use RAM-based technology for enhanced security, similar to NordVPN.

While not directly comparable to NordLynx, its Lightway protocol also delivers excellent connection speeds. Beyond core features, they provide additional benefits like an ad blocker, threat manager, and MediaStreamer for accessing geo-restricted content on unsupported devices.

While ExpressVPN boasts a comprehensive service, its pricing is slightly higher than NordVPN. The 6-month plan costs $9.99 per month, while the 1-year plan brings the monthly cost down to $6.67 using our link.

Overall, I would recommend ExpressVPN for users who prioritize privacy and performance and are willing to pay a slight premium for these features.

3. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN offers a sizable network exceeding 1,700 servers across 60 countries. However,  NordVPN offers a wider reach with over 6,000 servers in 67 countries.

Both services prioritize user privacy with features like RAM-only servers, top-tier tunneling protocols, kill switches, strict no-logs policies, and robust encryption. The headquarter is located outside the 14 Eyes Alliances known for government surveillance.

It allows up to 10 simultaneous connections, matching NordVPN’s capabilities. Their 2-year plan offers significant value at just $4.49 per month, and you might even discover additional savings through my links.

Why Should You Trust Me?

Since 2020, I’ve been a personal user of NordVPN, which sparked my interest in providing in-depth VPN reviews that go beyond what’s readily available. My reviews analyze both the pros and cons of different VPN services, ensuring neutrality and avoiding brand favoritism.

Over the past three years, I’ve dived deep into over 30 VPN options, including both free and paid services. You can find all my reviews conveniently on my YouTube channel.

I’m here to be your trusted guide through the often-confusing world of online security. My experience and knowledge in this field allow me to recommend the right VPNs to suit your specific needs.

Conclusion

After dissecting all the key features–from a massive server network to robust security measures–the question remains: is NordVPN the right fit for you?

NordVPN excels in speed, security, and features. It offers a transparent no-logs policy, undergoes independent audits, and offers RAM servers, obfuscated servers, a kill switch, and the NordLynx protocol for ultimate protection.

The desktop app’s UI could be improved, but it supports a wide range of devices with 10 simultaneous connections, making it ideal for families.

While NordVPN underwent a security breach in 2018, putting a question mark on users’ trust, they bounced back by introducing robust security tools. They’re also known for their suite of security tools like NordLocker, NordPass, and NordLayer.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If top-notch security, excellent performance, and features are your priority, NordVPN is a strong contender. Budget-conscious users might consider Surfshark or ProtonVPN, with simpler pricing structures.

Did this NordVPN review cover everything you were curious about? Are you interested in another VPN review? Share your thoughts below!

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