NordVPN Review: The Search For Perfect VPN Is Over?
When we talk about VPNs, NordVPN is one of the names that we have all heard of.
So is it really that big of a deal? Is it a one-stop solution for everything you look for in a VPN? To answer these questions, we reviewed this app comprehensively. From user experience, security to speed, mobile performance, and price, we covered all aspects of this VPN.
And we are very impressed with the experience that NordVPN offers. The developer has made this app with a wide range of invaluable features that makes this VPN stand apart from its competitors. In this guide, we will tell you everything that we uncovered about this excellent VPN
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User Experience
Many times VPNs can be complex to use, especially when apps put too many elements on the page. But with NordVPN, you do not have to worry about it. Even if it is your first time using a VPN, you will have no trouble navigating your way around it. Once you have downloaded and installed the app on your device, all you have to do is select the Quick Connect tab, and you will be connected to the best server instantly.
- Seamless Connectivity
Contrary to many popular VPNs that offer limited compatibility, NordVPN has been designed to work on all devices. You can download the app on Windows, iOS, Linux, Android, and macOS. Additionally, the app allows you to secure up to six devices through a single account that includes your router and Smart TV. Therefore, you get maximum connectivity with this powerful VPN application.
- Round The Clock Assistance
The exceptional customer service by NordVPN is another factor that takes the user experience a notch higher. Although you will have trouble using the app itself, often we run into certain hiccups. NordVPN has a dedicated customer support team to make sure that customers can get instant solutions to their problems. You can get in touch with the team either through live chat or email.
Streaming Performance
When the company claims it is the best VPN service provider in the industry, it’s not just word; NordVPN has proved it as well. The app comes with SmartPlay features that are designed to sidestep the tough geoblocks while keeping you secure at all times. SmartPlay combines VPN technology with DNS technology to easily combat the blocks and maintain the security of your network. You can choose any available network to view streaming services of any covered location.
The best part is that with every server, you will get ultra HD video quality without unnecessary lag or buffering. We tested multiple streaming platforms with various server locations and got the best results every time. Irrespective of what library you choose, you will get consistent, high-quality streaming.
The SmartPlay feature is truly powerful, which allows you to bypass any geoblocks within a single try. Moreover, whether you chose a server close to your location or at the far end of the world, you will be enjoying high-quality streaming without hiccups. Following are the streaming platforms that you can access with NordVPN –
- Netflix
- BBC iPlayer
- Amazon Prime Video
- ESPN
- HBO GO
- Hulu
- Hotstar
Not just streaming platforms, this robust application can unblock social media as well. Whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, get access to blocked channels with a single click.
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Speed Performance
This is another area where NordVPN has outperformed its leading competitors. For optimum speed, the application has integrated a feature called Quick Connect. Based on your current location, it will find and connect you with the fastest server available. In our tests, it has managed to connect different servers without any hassle. Whether it is for streaming, gaming, or browsing, you will get a breezy speed with NordVPN.
More than that – when we performed a speed test we saw an improvement in performance after we connected to NordVPN
However, when you access Quick Connect, the app will connect to the fastest server automatically. This means you cannot manually decide the server location. So this is only for the time when you are looking for speed. However, if you want to unblock sites or content from a specific location, then you can do that by choosing the desired location from the options available.
When it comes to speed, you will be impressed by the performance. We first connected to a couple of local servers and got amazingly high speed. Browsing, downloading, and uploading were extremely fast on each server. Coming to the international servers speed, the performance will remain the same. Although in some servers, we experienced lower speed than others, there was never an issue of lag or buffering. So, it is safe to say that NordVPN is the fastest VPN vendor in the market today.
Security Performance
When you are browsing online content through a VPN, you expect it to keep you safe. Security should be the top priority for every VPN vendor. In terms of secure browsing, no other VPN vendors can beat NordVPN. We have closely reviewed every security feature that the application offers, and here are our views –
- AES 256-bit Encryption
This algorithm aims to hide users’ information and is the most secure encryption. Figure 256 denotes the size of the encryption key as well as the codes a hacker would need to penetrate it. Therefore, you can be rest assured that no-one will get their hands on your data. This encryption is a combination of SHA2-384 authentication, 2048-bit DH key, and advanced forward secrecy.
- Perfect Forward Secrecy
Every time you log in to NordVPN, the PFS assigns you a unique key. This implies that whatever information you accessed on your previous session will be completely erased. Every time you log in, you will be a new user.
- Security Protocols
NordVPN uses two security protocols that include IKEv2/IPSec and UDP/TCP. The latter one is an essential security protocol. On the other hand, IKEv2/IPSec is used as a default option for iOS and macOS.
- Kill Switch
Integrating VPN with a kill switch is an excellent way to offer security. In case your connection is disconnected or compromised, the kill switch ensures that the traffic does not leave the connected device. This way, it protects the IP address and DNS from getting leaked. NordVPN comes with a kill switch for both desktop and mobile users. You get this robust security feature for macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. While it gets automatically activated on mobile, you have to manually enable it on the desktop. Similarly, it gets automatically enabled on iOS devices, but you have to manually enable it on Android.
- Leak Tests And Protection
It is another important feature that makes NordVPN highly secure. Due to some software and browser issues, your IP address and DNS requests may get leaked. This exposes you to the risk of being hacked and misused. However, with NordVPN, you get complete leak protection which can stop any accidental exposure of your personal information.
- Dual-Encryption
NordVPN offers double the security level with its dual encryption. In this, the application routes the traffic through two servers. This makes it even more challenging to find and trace your online activities. The lack of dedicated traffic lines means that the traffic keeps jumping between different servers and locations.
Mobile Compatibility
NordVPN offers compatibility with all major operating systems like Windows, iOS, and Android. And the performance remains the same on all these mobile operating systems. Through a one-click connection, you can easily set-up NordVPN on your mobile phones. Once the app is installed, you have to sign it and launch the ad blocker. Thereafter, you can select the desired network and get instant connectivity. And when you use the Quick Connect feature, the process becomes even faster.
Mostly the interface of the Android app and iOS app is quite similar, but there are some differences. We found that the iOS app has additional options for security protocols. While Android users can only use OpenVPN, iOS users have two options, including IKEv2 and OpenVPN. For iOS users, the former option comes as a default setting.
Additionally, you will also find that the specialty servers are also different in both operating systems. On iOS devices, you can only access P2P and VPN servers, whereas, on Android devices, you can use obfuscated, P2P, dedicated IP, and double VPN servers. The difference may be due to the stringent security standards of iOS.
Price
NordVPN provides three price plans; this allows you to decide how long you want to keep using the application. Irrespective of the plan you choose, you will get to access primary features. The difference is that as the price of the plan increases, you will be able to access more advanced features. For the kind of features you get, the NordVPN app is priced competitively.
Even for individuals who are on a tight budget, you can easily afford the services. If you are looking to invest in a VPN application for the long-term, then NordVPN is the best option to consider. Additionally, the app allows you to test its features and functionalities before you make the actual investment. With the 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test the app. If you do not like it, you can opt for a refund which is quite reliable. Additionally, NordVPN is constantly offering discounts and coupon codes. Here is the pricing plan for NordVPN –
- One Month Plan – $11.95 per month
- One Year Plan – $4.92 per month
- Two Year Month – $3.71 per month
Many times the promotions on the Nord VPN website change so make sure you follow the button to get the best deal
Support Quality
Last but not least, the support quality of the app is one of the best you will ever come across. There is a dedicated team working round the clock to provide high-end support service. The app allows you to access support services through a ticketing system and 24×7 live chat. Moreover, you can also use a chatbot, which solves basic queries like:
- How to set-up the app?
- Where to find the server locations?
- How to cancel the account?
- What is Quick Connect Feature?
We have messaged on the live chat at different times to see who prompted the service, and the team was quick to reply every time. What we were impressed about more was how friendly, and through the support service was. Every time we interacted with the team, they took their time to thoroughly answer our queries. Additionally, on the official website, there is a dedicated FAQ section that has questions in different categories. You will also find a dedicated tutorial section to assist in setting up your mobile app on different devices.
Conclusion
On the whole, NordVPN is an excellent VPN application in every respect. It has checked all the boxes of an efficient, powerful, functional, and secure VPN. If you have been looking for a reliable VPN to invest in, you should definitely consider NordVPN.
