NordVPN Review

Quick Verdict

NordVPN remains one of the best all-around VPNs, striking a balance between performance, privacy, and usability. It offers excellent speeds thanks to its proprietary NordLynx protocol, strong encryption, and robust streaming capabilities. It’s not the cheapest, and some advanced users might prefer more transparency — but overall, NordVPN is a top-tier choice for most users.

✔ Best for: Everyday users, streamers, travelers, privacy-conscious users

✘ Not ideal for: Open-source purists or those who want complete anonymity (e.g. Mullvad-style)

Pros and Cons

Privacy and Logging Policy

NordVPN is headquartered in Panama, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction with no mandatory data retention laws. Its no-logs policy has been independently audited multiple times, most recently by Deloitte.

It does not log IP addresses, browsing history, bandwidth usage, or traffic metadata. However, it does store basic billing info if paying by card or PayPal.

Privacy features:

• Independently audited no-logs policy

• Based outside of 5/9/14 Eyes

• Accepts cryptocurrency for anonymous payment

• Option to use dedicated IP (extra cost)

• Regular transparency reports

Although NordVPN is not as extreme on privacy as Mullvad, it offers strong, balanced privacy suitable for 99% of users.

Speed and Performance

Thanks to NordLynx, NordVPN is consistently one of the fastest VPNs available today. It’s built on the WireGuard protocol, optimized for low latency and high throughput.

Speed test results (500 Mbps baseline)

Speeds are stable across short and long-distance connections. No noticeable slowdown while streaming, gaming, or downloading.

Server Network and Locations

NordVPN boasts a massive server fleet, offering thousands of high-speed servers with specialty roles.

Network overview (2025):

• 6,300+ servers

• 111+ countries

• Specialty servers:

  • Double VPN

  • Onion over VPN

  • Obfuscated servers

  • Dedicated IP (optional)

All servers run in RAM-disk mode, meaning no data is ever written to a hard drive — boosting both privacy and security.

Streaming Capabilities

NordVPN excels at unblocking geo-restricted content and remains one of the top VPNs for streaming in 2025.

Streaming test results:

There’s no need to switch to specific servers — SmartPlay DNS automatically handles routing. Streams load quickly and in HD/4K without buffering.

Torrenting and P2P

All NordVPN servers support P2P traffic, but there are also dedicated servers optimized for torrenting. You’ll get fast, stable connections and a high level of security.

Torrenting features:

• Full P2P support

• Kill switch (system-wide & app-specific)

• No logs or throttling

• SOCKS5 proxy available

• Split tunneling (Windows & Android)

Port forwarding is not supported — a deliberate decision for privacy and security.

Security and Encryption

NordVPN is loaded with cutting-edge security features.

Core security technologies:

• AES-256-GCM encryption

• NordLynx (WireGuard-based) and OpenVPN support

• Double VPN routing

• Onion over VPN servers (Tor + VPN)

• Kill switch and DNS leak protection

• Threat Protection (malware blocker & tracker blocker)

In 2023, NordVPN completed a complete infrastructure audit, including server security, access policies, and software codebases. All servers are now RAM-only and colocated where possible.

User Experience and Interface

NordVPN has polished, intuitive apps for all major platforms. Features are easy to find, and specialty servers are clearly labeled.

Platform support:

• Windows, macOS, Linux (GUI & CLI)

• Android, iOS, Android TV

• Chrome, Firefox extensions

• Router support (OpenVPN config or pre-flashed devices)

• Meshnet (connect your own devices securely, ideal for remote work)

The desktop apps are responsive, and the mobile experience is seamless. The interface includes map-based selection and quick-connect options.

Device Compatibility

You can connect up to 6 devices simultaneously, and NordVPN supports a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, game consoles (via router), and IoT setups.

Meshnet allows devices to connect directly over encrypted tunnels — ideal for secure file sharing or LAN gaming across the globe.

Additional Features

NordVPN includes several powerful tools that set it apart from more basic VPNs.

Extras include

These features make NordVPN not just a privacy tool, but a full security suite.

Pricing and Plans

NordVPN offers three main tiers (Standard, Plus, Complete) with flexible billing options. Longer-term plans offer the best value.

Cryptocurrency payments are supported for added anonymity.

Frequently Asked Questions