Is NordVPN Still a Top VPN Choice?
In this NordVPN review, we’ll take an in-depth look at what NordVPN offers, its key features, pricing, and how it compares to other top VPN providers. Read on to see if NordVPN is still a top VPN choice as we enter 2024.
Overview of NordVPN
NordVPN is a Panama-based VPN service that has been operating since 2012. It's one of the largest VPN providers, claiming to have over 14 million users worldwide. NordVPN offers robust security features, good speeds, and access to over 5,200 servers in 60 countries.
Some key features of NordVPN include:
- Strong encryption (AES-256-GCM)
- No-logs policy
- Kill switch
- CyberSec ad/malware blocking
- Obfuscated servers to bypass VPN blocks
- Tor over VPN
- P2P support
- 6 simultaneous device connections
- Apps for all major platforms
NordVPN has received generally positive reviews over the years for its speed, security, and range of features. However, it has also faced a few controversies regarding its no-logs policy and server security. We'll examine both the pros and cons of NordVPN later in this review.
Pricing
NordVPN offers four pricing tiers:
- Monthly: $14.99/month
- 1-year plan: $4.92/month
- 2-year plan: $3.30/month
- 3-year plan: $2.30/month
The longer-term plans offer significant discounts. NordVPN does not offer a free trial, but it has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Accepted payment methods include credit card, PayPal, Amazon Pay, cryptocurrencies, and other options.
Ease of Use
NordVPN offers clients for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. The apps are user-friendly with quick connect features that automatically select the best server.
The desktop apps feature large server maps that make it easy to select your desired server location. Advanced users can configure settings like VPN protocol and CyberSec ad blocking within the apps.
Customer Support
NordVPN provides 24/7 live chat support. Support is offered in English, German, Spanish and other languages. The company also provides extensive support guides and tutorials on its website.
NordVPN Features & Benefits
Now let’s take a more in-depth look at NordVPN key features and benefits:
Strict No-Logs Policy
NordVPN operates under Panama's jurisdiction, which does not require companies to collect user activity logs. NordVPN claims to have a strict zero-logs policy, meaning no internet traffic, IP addresses, browsing data, or other user activity is logged or stored. This prevents any user data from being compromised or handed over to authorities.
Independent audits have verified NordVPN's no-logs claims, though there was a breach incident in 2018 when an unauthorized third party accessed a single Finnish server. Still, NordVPN has built trust through its audits and bug bounty program that pays security researchers who find vulnerabilities.
Powerful Encryption
NordVPN automatically secures connections using strong AES-256 encryption with 4096-bit RSA keys and a TLS 1.3 handshake. This is the same encryption used by banks and militaries.
NordVPN also offers perfect forward secrecy, meaning new encryption keys are generated each session. This prevents past sessions from being decrypted if a key is compromised in the future.
Kill Switch
If the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, NordVPN's kill switch will automatically disable the internet connection to prevent IP address leaks until the VPN reconnects. This keeps users secure at all times.
The kill switch is enabled by default in the NordVPN Windows and macOS apps. Android and iOS users can enable the kill switch within the app settings.
CyberSec Ad and Malware Blocking
NordVPN's CyberSec feature blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. This prevents users from unknowingly visiting sites that could install malware or steal personal data. CyberSec can provide a cleaner and faster browsing experience.
Obfuscated Servers
Trying to use NordVPN in countries like China or Russia that restrict VPN access? NordVPN offers obfuscated servers that disguise the VPN traffic, making it more likely to bypass VPN blocks and firewalls. This allows users stuck behind heavy internet censorship to access a free and open internet.
Tor Over VPN
For an added layer of anonymity, NordVPN allows routing traffic through the Onion Router (Tor) network. NordVPN has hundreds of speciality servers that connect first to the NordVPN network and then pass traffic through the Tor network. However, speeds can be slow when using Tor.
P2P and BitTorrent Support
Most NordVPN servers allow peer-to-peer filesharing through BitTorrent and other protocols. This allows high-speed downloads while maintaining anonymity and avoiding letters from ISPs.
Six Device Connections
A single NordVPN account allows connecting up to six devices simultaneously. This is more generous than many VPN providers that only allow two or three-device connections. Families or teams can share one NordVPN account.
Apps for All Major Platforms
NordVPN offers native apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. The apps are user-friendly with quick connect features. NordVPN also provides manual setup guides for routers, NAS devices, and more.
5,000+ Servers Worldwide
With over 5,000 servers in 60 countries, NordVPN offers a vast server network that provides many connection options. Users are likely to find high-speed servers nearby due to the large server count.
IKEv2/IPSec Support
In addition to OpenVPN, NordVPN offers the IKEv2/IPSec protocol. This can provide faster connection speeds on some mobile networks. Users can choose the VPN protocol within the NordVPN app settings.
24/7 Live Chat Support
NordVPN provides around-the-clock live chat support directly within the app or website. Support agents are available to quickly answer questions or troubleshoot issues.
No Bandwidth Limits
NordVPN places no limits on bandwidth usage. Users can browse, stream, download, or torrent as much as they want without worrying about caps or throttling.
Independent Audits
NordVPN undergoes scheduled independent audits to verify its no-logs policy and other practices:
- Price Waterhouse Coopers AG audited NordVPN in 2020 and confirmed its strict no-logs policy
- VerSprite performed a complete infrastructure audit in 2018 and found NordVPN stores no personal identifiable information
- NordVPN uses TLS 1.3 and advanced cryptography verified through audits by firms like Cure53
Regular audits provide transparency and build trust that NordVPN operates securely as advertised. NordVPN also runs an invite-only bug bounty program with rewards up to $5,000 for researchers who responsibly disclose vulnerabilities.
Speed & Performance
NordVPN generally provides above-average VPN speeds, but results can vary depending on the server location. Connecting to a nearby server typically provides the fastest speeds.
In speed tests, NordVPN download speeds are usually reduced by 30-50% compared to the base ISP speed. This is not unexpected for a VPN and the speeds are still sufficient for HD video streaming and downloading.
Exact speeds will depend on factors like the network infrastructure to a given server location, the number of active users on a server, and the VPN protocols used.
NordVPN’s large server network helps provide fast server options in most locations. Features like CyberSec ad blocking can also improve speeds by preventing bandwidth-hogging ads and trackers from loading.
Advanced users can enable NordVPN’s obfuscated servers or connect via Tor over VPN for greater anonymity at the cost of some speed. Or use tools like NordVPN's SmartPlay feature that routes only certain apps through the VPN tunnel to maintain fast direct speeds for other tasks.
In summary, NordVPN offers reliably fast VPN performance for most everyday online activities. Speeds are generally fast enough for streaming HD video and large downloads at peak performance times.
Reliability & Stability
NordVPN earns good marks for reliability. The apps are responsive and stable during use. NordVPN’s large server network provides many options if you encounter any issues with specific servers.
The kill switch works reliably to disable the internet connection if the VPN drops. This prevents identity leaks when the VPN disconnects unexpectedly.
NordVPN claims a 99.9% server uptime rate. Servers are monitored 24/7 by NordVPN's network staff. If the VPN connection fails, the apps make it easy to quickly connect to another server.
Overall, NordVPN provides reliable connectivity and can access high-speed servers in most locations. The network is large enough that there should always be a fast server available. The kill switch offers protection against short disruptions.
Streaming & Unblocking Abilities
A top priority for many VPN users is accessing streaming sites like US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, ESPN, and other geographically restricted platforms.
NordVPN is able to unblock US Netflix and most other popular streaming sites. Its obfuscated servers can sometimes bypass Netflix VPN blocks. However, streaming platforms regularly update their VPN-detection systems. There’s no guarantee any VPN will work with a given streaming site forever.
If you encounter issues unblocking a streaming service with NordVPN, contact their live support. The support team can suggest specific servers confirmed to be working to access streaming sites. NordVPN’s SmartPlay feature can also optimize the network connection for streaming.
For streaming sports, NordVPN provides reliable access to international sports networks like ESPN, BT Sport, Sky Sports, DAZN,and more.
In summary, NordVPN remains one of the most reliable VPNs for accessing restricted streaming content worldwide in 2024. With frequent updates from its support team, you’re likely to find a NordVPN server that will unblock almost any streaming site or live event.
Security & Privacy
Security and privacy are the main reasons people use a VPN. NordVPN has many robust security features, but its reputation took a hit from two past security incidents. Let’s take a closer look at NordVPN’s security practices.
Encryption & Protocols
As outlined earlier, NordVPN utilizes AES-256 encryption, 4096-bit RSA keys, a TLS 1.3 handshake, and perfect forward secrecy. This is top-tier encryption that fully secures VPN traffic from prying eyes.
NordVPN offers the option of both OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec VPN protocols. Both options provide strong encryption along with benefits like unique fingerprints that protect against man-in-the-middle attacks.
No-Logs Policy
While NordVPN's zero-logs policy was verified through audits, it still faced scrutiny after two cybersecurity incidents.
In 2018, NordVPN disclosed that a data center operator had left a VPN server in Finland unsecured, allowing unauthorized remote access. The hacker potentially could have accessed traffic routed through this one server.
NordVPN claimed no user activity logs or identities could have been intercepted. Regardless, they terminated their contract with the server provider and improved security practices.
Then in 2019, NordVPN confirmed that some expired TLS keys for website domains were briefly exposed. This could have allowed forged websites to pose as NordVPN for targeted attacks. However, the company quickly revoked the compromised keys and there were no reports of users being harmed.
3rd Party Audits
As stated earlier, NordVPN undergoes routine independent audits of its privacy policy, server infrastructure, source code, and internal processes. These help identify and resolve vulnerabilities before they are exploited.
Bug Bounty Program
NordVPN's bug bounty program offers rewards up to $5,000 for ethical hackers who report significant vulnerabilities. This provides additional oversight to supplement its professional audits and penetration testing.
Jurisdiction
NordVPN operates under the jurisdiction of Panama, which has no mandatory data retention laws. This makes it easier for NordVPN to follow its stringent no-logs policy.
NordVPN Review Conclusion
NordVPN remains one of the top-tier VPN services going into 2024. It offers robust security, above-average speeds, ample server locations, and intuitive apps for all platforms. The double encryption of connecting through both NordVPN and Tor networks provides a major privacy boost.
While no VPN service is 100% bulletproof, NordVPN has strong security foundations in place. Advanced features like CyberSec malware blocking, obfuscated servers, and a reliable kill switch distinguish NordVPN in the crowded VPN space. NordVPN gives you lots of value at its various price points.
For torrenting, NordVPN permits P2P activity on all servers. Downloads are fast and IP address are always concealed. NordVPN is also proficient at unblocking popular streaming sites like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.
Overall, NordVPN remains an Editors' Choice VPN for 2024 thanks to its competitive balance of speed, security, and ease of use. The impressive server network and steady new feature additions also keep NordVPN a top choice for basic privacy and high-speed streaming/downloading.
