According to VPN users, a major player in the virtual private network industry that offers a more comprehensive service that caters to all customer needs is NordVPN Security. It is a super-fast, user-friendly VPN that offers numerous useful features.
In this article, we’ll do a review of NordVPN Security, including its encryption, protocols, and so on. Let’s get started.
A Review of NordVPN Security
NordVPN, a top VPN, is praised for its high speed, robust online security features, streaming and torrenting capabilities, and excellent web browsing tools.
This VPN, based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, provides standard security and privacy features, along with extras like double-hop VPN and Onion over VPN. And it’s reasonably priced despite its extensive capabilities, although it may not be the most affordable option available.
NordVPN appears to be an ideal VPN from a distance, but a thorough investigation reveals significant flaws in its privacy and transparency facade. It has been found to route some user traffic through residential IP addresses provided by a company with a questionable history. The company’s overall transparency efforts are lacking in quality.
This VPN is a great option for casual users who want to unblock content or hide their activity from their ISPs due to its numerous benefits. The uncertainty and obscurity surrounding NordVPN, particularly for VPN users whose online privacy is crucial, makes it unsuitable for enthusiastic recommendations.
When you sign on with a VPN provider, you’re trusting the VPN’s promise to protect your data and keep you safe and secure online. NordVPN’s no-logs claims and security audits are commendable, but lack an annual transparency report and are cautious about partnerships and corporate structure.
NordVPN must reconsider its transparency approach to maintain its position as a leading player in the VPN industry and online privacy space.
Read Also: HOW TO SET UP A VPN: How To Connect a VPN on Any Device
Let’s see the pros and cons of this VPN.
NordVPN Pros and Cons
Advantages of NordVPN
- The server infrastructure is designed to be RAM-only.
- The fastest VPN tested
- The goal is to eliminate ISP bandwidth throttling.
- The Meshnet feature allows for remote device access.
- Intuitive apps that are compatible with most devices.
- The security features have been thoroughly and independently audited.
- Unblocks geo-restricted streaming websites
Disadvantages of NordVPN
- The Linux client lacks a visual interface.
- There is no unlimited free plan available.
- There are currently no simultaneous connections available.
Is NordVPN safe?
NordVPN is a highly reputable VPN provider known for its safety measures. NordVPN’s servers utilize advanced encryption and secure tunneling protocols, ensuring the safety of your data, and all operate on RAM.
RAM servers are crucial for VPNs as they ensure data is erased every server restart, preventing theft, and are commonly used in NordVPN servers.
More so, NordVPN’s privacy policy has undergone an independent audit, indicating its legal and technical security.
Protocols and Encryption
NordVPN uses the AES-256 cipher, a military-grade encryption method, to protect your traffic. This encryption method is highly secure and widely utilized by banks, hospitals, and other institutions.
The VPN protocols you are using are primarily what determines the VPN’s flexibility. They guarantee reliable performance, like assisting in bypassing online censorship and unblocking services like Netflix US and more.
In addition, we’ve provided a list of NordVPN’s protocols, including our expert recommendations:
OpenVPN (TCP/UDP):
The VPN tunnel is highly favored due to its superior speed and security ratio. UDP connections are faster but can be easily blocked, while TCP is slower but more resilient against obstacles, just like the Chinese firewall.
NordLynx:
NordVPN’s proprietary protocol, based on WireGuard, is an innovative innovation that’s very impressive. NordLynx addresses privacy concerns using its custom double network address translation (NAT) system for WireGuard.
The small code base of the platform reduces its vulnerability to hack attacks compared to OpenVPN.
IKEv2/IPSec:
The protocol is typically avoided, especially when OpenVPN or WireGuard are options. The app is highly favored by mobile users and frequent travelers due to its reconnection capabilities.
This feature enables seamless network switching without any interruption to your connection. However, it exposes you to man-in-the-middle attacks.
Both OpenVPN and NordLynx are considered superior because they are the fastest and most secure VPN protocols.
Onion over VPN and Double VPN
A double VPN, or multi-hop, is a method where your traffic is routed through two VPN servers instead of one. Usually, double-encryption enhances security and makes it harder to attack.
With this tool, you can bypass geo-restrictions and censorship in countries like Iran. In countries with strict internet content restrictions, providers like NordVPN and Surfshark are our preferred choices.
With that said, encrypting your traffic twice can significantly affect your speed. That’s why we advise against using this feature unless it is absolutely necessary. This is particularly beneficial for hardcore gamers who desire smooth and lag-free gameplay sessions.
Meanwhile, Onion over VPN is a router that merges the benefits of an Onion router with VPN security. The Onion network allows traffic to enter through a random relay anywhere in the world. The encryption of every point of connection makes it challenging to identify the origin of your traffic.
Although onion servers are operated by volunteers, anyone can operate one. That’s why a VPN is necessary to conceal your real IP address from the entry node. So, if someone is monitoring large portions of the Onion network, they won’t be able to trace your traffic back to you.
Threat Protection
NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature safeguards users from malicious ads, malware, phishing, and other online threats by blocking them. The security software prevents threats from reaching your device earlier before they can even reach it.
This skillful tool also keeps you safe from DDoS attacks and prevents online trackers, allowing you to browse the internet without leaving a trace.
Threat Protection provides a weekly summary of seven-day protection measures. The goal is to empower you with control over your digital hygiene. The report provides a comprehensive list of blocked ads, malicious websites, malware, and trackers to help users identify potential future threats and behaviors.
Take note that there are two separate versions of Threat Protection, which are Threat Protection and Threat Protection Lite. The latter will not be able to remove the detected malware.
Also, the full version can be used without a VPN connection on a separate subscription, but the Lite version cannot be used without a VPN connection.
Additional Nord Services
In addition to its VPN features, Nord offers additional services available at an additional cost. They include:
- NordLayer: A secure VPN solution for businesses
- NordLocker: A cloud storage solution
- NordPass: A password manager
- Meshnet: A virtual networking solution
Now let’s examine each of these services closely.
#1. NordLayer:
A dedicated VPN solution designed specifically for businesses
NordLayer is a comprehensive network security solution offered by NordVPN for businesses. This technology enables organizations to securely use the internet, ensuring smooth operations for hybrid and distributed workforces.
It is a cybersecurity solution that safeguards its employees from various threats such as phishing, ransomware, and malware-infected files. NordLayer uses AES-256 encryption to protect your files and sensitive data, particularly during transit.
With virtual private gateways, you have access to added security, which offers a dedicated server for your organization. This also allows for the implementation of IP allowlisting and granular network segmentation.
NordLayer’s dedicated server pool spans over 30 locations, including Australia, Brazil, Hong Kong, and South Africa.
NordLayer is a scalable, hardware-free solution that integrates easily with existing infrastructure, is compatible with various tools, and offers priority support and a dedicated account manager.
NordLayer Pricing:
This NordLayer offers a range of flexible pricing options, including:
- Lite: $8/user/month
- Core: $11/user/month
- Premium: $14/user/month
- Custom: For large companies with specific requirements
Most VPNs are now launching similar services, but NordVPN is considered the pioneer by many.
#2. NordLocker:
A reliable encrypted cloud storage solution
NordLocker is a cloud storage service that functions similarly to Dropbox, allowing users to share files with others. It offers the additional feature of being an encrypted storage locker.
Currently, users can receive 3GB of free cloud storage, although it is not on the list of top 2023 cloud storage options. If you need more space, you can select from one of the two premium packages.
- 500 GB: $2.99/month
- 2 TB: $5.99/month
The three options all offer unlimited end-to-end encryption. Although premium NordVPN users receive 24/7 priority support, the free version only offers email support.
NordLocker offers business-grade packages with an admin panel. This package includes access control, secure file management, private sharing, and platform access on any device.
NordLocker Pricing:
The pricing structure for NordLocker is as follows:
- Business 100 GB: $3.29 per user/month
- Business 500 GB: $13.29 per user/month
- Business Plus 2 TB: $15.69 per user/month
- Custom plan: A package tailored to your business
#3. NordPass:
The best password manager
A password manager is essential for online safety. This software safeguards your passwords and assists in making informed decisions when creating new ones.
NordPass is a comprehensive password manager that significantly enhances your security measures. This tool allows you to:
- Create stronger passwords
- Save unlimited passwords + enable autosave and autofill
- Import and export passwords
- Keep notes and credit cards
- Fill out forms with personal information.
- Sync passwords, notes, and credit cards across devices
- Share items with people you trust
- Replace old, weak, and reused passwords
- Scan the internet for data leaks involving your passwords
NordPass provides a 30-day free trial for users to test its functionality, and after the trial ends, users can continue using the limited free version.
NordPass Pricing:
Here’s detailed pricing for the two premium subscriptions:
Premium plan:
- $1.29/month for the two-year plan
- $1.69/month for the one-year plan
Family plan (six users):
- $2.49/month for the two-year plan
- $2.99/month for the one-year plan
NordPass also offer company-based payment solution with lots of benefits, like:
NordPass Business (price per user):
- $3.59/month for the two-year plan
- $3.99/month for the one-year plan
#4. Meshnet:
Meshnet enables users to remotely access devices worldwide. The system uses encrypted tunnels to establish a point-to-point connection between two devices, rather than connecting to a VPN server.
NordVPN released Meshnet for free in March 2023, as part of its commitment to promoting a safer and more accessible internet.
Meshnet shares similarities with the objective of Radmin VPN. Some of Meshnet’s benefits include:
- Hosting and joining virtual LAN parties:
This is particularly beneficial for online multiplayer games. Now, using Meshnet users can create virtual encrypted LAN connections with other players around the globe.
- Access files stored on remote devices:
Meshnet allows you to access files stored on your devices remotely. Regardless of your location, you can access shared files on your home or business computer with a phone using an internet connection.
- Share your files securely.
Sharing files on your local web server enables you to grant them access to the files.
- Route your online traffic
Meshnet enables you to route your traffic through a different machine. This implies that you can access the internet using the IP address of another machine.
Is NordVPN Easy to Use?
NordVPN is a popular VPN service that offers a secure and efficient VPN solution for users. The system maintains its user-friendly nature while providing advanced features without compromising on its advanced capabilities. This makes the VPN suitable for both beginners and power users.
NordVPN’s website supports 20+ languages, but its client supports only seven. We hope for more translations in the future to enhance accessibility, especially considering NordVPN’s international reach.
NordVPN can be installed on up to six devices, providing ample protection for users, including those wishing to protect their entire households.
NordVPN is a user-friendly VPN that can be installed and used on any device, including desktop, tablet, or mobile.
How to install NordVPN
NordVPN has a simple and straightforward installation, though it may be challenging for new users to understand its setup process. That’s why we provided a step-by-step guide to help with the installation process.
- Go to NordVPN’s official website.
- Select a plan and set up your account
- Click on Get NordVPN to download the installable file.
- Double-click the downloaded file to launch the installation.
- Follow the install wizard until NordVPN is successfully installed.
You can now access NordVPN using your newly created account, securing your internet connection with top-notch VPN security, unblocking, and speed.
Wrap Up.
Our review of NordVPN indicates that this provider is among the top VPNs currently available. This VPN provider excels in speed and security, two crucial factors when selecting a VPN.
NordVPN’s team has demonstrated exceptional performance by launching a bug bounty and transitioning to fully-owned, colocated VPN servers. It is clear that NordVPN is committed to user security.
Finally, with the combination of these features, including its user-friendly software, one can say that NordVPN is a top choice due to its exceptional performance and versatility.
Does NordVPN have a free version?
NordVPN does not offer a free version but offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which can be refunded within two days. Free VPNs may not always be suitable for streaming due to data or speed limitations, unlike paid VPN options.
Is NordVPN secure?
NordVPN, a top-rated VPN, employs OpenVPN, a widely regarded encryption protocol by cybersecurity experts, making it one of the most secure VPNs available. The system offers high-level privacy with a no-log logging policy and additional safety features like a kill switch, double VPN connections, and Onion over Tor.
Does NordVPN unblock Netflix?
NordVPN enables Netflix users to access content from multiple countries, allowing them to watch the US or Italian versions of Netflix while abroad. If Netflix access issues arise, try connecting to a different server, contacting NordVPN’s customer support, or using an obfuscated server or dedicated IP address.
Can I download torrents with NordVPN?
Yes, you can. NordVPN provides special P2P servers optimized for peer-to-peer traffic; it is accessible in the main menu of the NordVPN app on the left.
Does NordVPN offer dedicated IP addresses?
Yes. NordVPN provides dedicated IP addresses in the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and France. To obtain a dedicated IP, create a new account with a coupon code and contact the NordVPN support team to activate your dedicated IP.
Is NordVPN trustworthy?
NordVPN is a reliable, privacy-focused VPN with a no-logs policy and independent audits, and it doesn’t need to meet 14 Eyes Alliance data-sharing requirements.
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