NordVPN review: how good is the popular VPN service?

First off, what is NordVPN?

NordVPN is a highly popular virtual private network (VPN) service developed by Nord Security, one of the world’s leading providers of digital security and privacy solutions. It allows users to encrypt their internet connection and hide their actual IP address by routing all incoming and outgoing data traffic through a remote server. By doing so, it enhances users’ privacy and security while providing fast and reliable connections for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing.

Why would you want to use this app?

Whether you’re someone who’s always online or just pops in from time to time, NordVPN is a great way to keep things safer and more private. It encrypts your connection to help protect your data from cybercriminals and allows you to browse without stressing over every website you visit.

Plus, with its extra security features like Threat Protection Pro™, NordVPN can block phishing attempts, harmful downloads, and risky websites—giving you a much safer online experience overall.

Pricing and plans

NordVPN offers a variety of pricing options to fit different needs and budgets, with 4 plans—Basic, Plus, Complete, and Ultra (or their equivalents)—available in 1-month, 1-year, and 2-year subscriptions. The most budget-friendly option, the Basic plan, starts at just $3.99 per month when you go for the 2-year plan, while the feature-packed Ultra plan is $6.99 per month.*

No matter which plan you choose, you’ll get a fast, encrypted VPN connection. The main difference between the plans comes down to extra security features. For example, the Plus plan includes Threat Protection Pro™ to help block malware and trackers, while the Complete plan adds 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage.

*The pricing is valid in the United States of America as of April 3rd, 2025, and is subject to change. NordVPN's prices may vary by country, so we recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date pricing in your location.

The features of NordVPN

The most important feature—one you should expect from any VPN—is, of course, the VPN itself. NordVPN encrypts your internet traffic using AES encryption and offers multiple VPN protocols to choose from, including its own high-speed, super-secure NordLynx.

However, NordVPN goes beyond the traditional scope of a VPN service, adding extra features that make users’ online lives even safer. For example, the aforementioned Threat Protection Pro™ helps block malware and web trackers, while the Dark Web Monitor informs you if your data leaks online. Meshnet allows you to set up your own private, encrypted network, while Dedicated IP—well, if you know what an IP address is, you already know what this one does.

NordVPN even offers Double VPN, a feature that secures the connection by encrypting and routing it through two servers instead of one for enhanced security. And to top it all off, NordVPN does not log your online activity.

User experience

NordVPN makes advanced security feel effortless. The interface is intuitive, so you can easily connect to a VPN server using an interactive map, pick your preferred VPN protocol, or even set up a secure network with Meshnet. You’ll also get alerts if your data is exposed in a leak—all without digging through complicated settings.

Setting up NordVPN is just as simple, no matter what device you’re using. It works seamlessly across Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and major browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. You can even set it to connect automatically when you start your device, and the dashboard keeps track of how many times you’ve protected your connection. If that’s not making network security smooth, we’re not sure what is.

Security and privacy

Let’s dive a bit deeper into security. Since NordVPN comes from Nord Security, a major player in cybersecurity (it literally has the word “security” in its name), you can expect top-notch privacy and protection. We’ve already covered the key security features and the fact that NordVPN does not log your online activity, but there’s more.

For instance, NordVPN runs a bug bounty program, performs third-party penetration tests, and conducts regular third-party audits to make sure its security standards, regulations, and practices are always up to date and top-notch.

In addition to the many security features we have already covered, NordVPN also includes a Kill Switch feature, which automatically blocks your internet connection when the VPN drops unexpectedly, preventing any leaks that could potentially leave you exposed.

Customer support

No matter what issues you run into—whether it's slow connections, trouble accessing websites, or logging in to the NordVPN app—NordVPN has you covered with professional 24/7 customer support to help you sort things out fast.

They also have a super helpful Support Center, a knowledge hub full of articles and FAQs covering everything from the app to billing, pricing, plans, and more. As a result, answers to your questions are never far away.

Our verdict

Even though we’re part of the Nord Security brand, and millions of people around the world use NordVPN, or that platforms like TechRadar call it the #1 VPN in 2025, we genuinely think that NordVPN is an amazing piece of technology. In our view, it’s one of those tools that allow today’s users to make smart cybersecurity choices with zero effort.

From its user-friendly design to the solid security specs and all the extra features, NordVPN brings you a complete cybersecurity package. It puts you in control of your network security and keeps various cyber threats from reaching you and causing any harm.

If you’ve never tried a VPN tool before, we highly recommend giving NordVPN a go. With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you’ll get full access to all its features, and if you’re not totally satisfied, you can get a full refund. It’s a win-win!