This article has been just updated: January 16, 2024
Since its launch in 2012, NordVPN has received a number of awards from many prestigious magazines and online publications for its strong security, excellent global coverage, and attractive prices.
However, we’re now in 2024, and you can choose from more VPN services than ever, so many people are asking whether NordVPN is still the best VPN service for those who want to enjoy the internet without anyone monitoring their online activity.
Price Matters
NordVPN has always been affordable. At the moment, you can purchase its 3-year plan for $107.55, which means that you get to pay just $2.99 for a month of service. You can, of course, also pay on a monthly basis, but the price of the monthly plan is $11.95.
NordVPN’s biggest competitor, ExpressVPN, starts at $8.32 per month when billed every 12 months. There are VPN services that cost even less than NordVPN, such as Private Internet Access, but don’t expect to save more than a dollar each month. In the case of Private Internet Access, you would save only 8 cents, which is basically nothing.
It’s also worth noting that NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, whereas many other affordable VPN service providers, including Private Internet Access, offer only a 7-day money-back guarantee.
NordVPN accepts all kinds of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, cryptocurrencies, and several online payment platforms.
Overall, NordVPN continues to deliver exceptional value at a very affordable price, making it perfect for all VPN users who want uncompromising security without paying too much for it.
Best-in-Class Features
As one of the largest VPN services in the world, NordVPN has an outstanding global presence, with more than 5,200 servers located in 62 countries. Having so many servers to choose from allows you to easily bypass geo-restrictions and access websites that wouldn’t otherwise be accessible from your location.
It also means that slowdowns and connection drops are very rare even during peak hours. You can switch between different server locations simply by clicking on markers on a map in the NordVPN app. Regardless of which location you choose, you can expect fast speeds and low latency.
Unlike many other VPN service providers, NordVPN doesn’t limit the activity of its customers in any way. You can download torrents and stream online movies to your heart’s content and always benefit from NordVPN’s military-grade encryption and cutting-edge ad-blocking features.
By default, all NordVPN apps implement something called SmartPlay technology, allowing you to enjoy safe streaming experience with no buffering, bandwidth throttling, or slow speeds.
With SmartPlay, you can access content on websites that otherwise would not be available to you. From Netflix to Hulu to various free online streaming sites, NordVPN has something to offer to everyone.
Security You Can Depend On
Even the best features can’t redeem a VPN service that doesn’t deliver outstanding security. NordVPN passes with flying colors in this regard. It has a strict no logs policy, and it doesn’t have to obey any data retention laws because it’s located in Panama, a country that does not participate in the Five Eyes or Fourteen Eyes alliances.
NordVPN takes a lot of extra steps to keep your IP address hidden that many other providers of VPS services don’t take. For starters, it uses double encryption to create an extra layer of privacy by connecting you to one VPN server, redirecting your traffic to another server, and, finally, connecting you to your final destination. Because the second VPN server isn’t aware of your real IP address, your identity is 100 percent safe even from NordVPN.
At the moment, NordVPN offers the following server combinations: Canada-US, Netherlands-Russia, Sweden-Netherlands, UK-France, UK-Netherlands, and Taiwan-Hong Kong. Visit this page for a full list of all server locations.
Even though NordVPN is widely considered to be an exceptionally reliable VPN service provider, there’s still a chance that you will experience a minor connection drop from time to time, and you might not even notice it. The problem with connection drops and VPNs is that most devices, including Android and iOS smartphones as well as Windows and Mac computers, quickly establish an unprotected connection in the event of a VPN connection drop, revealing your identity to your internet service provider.
NordVPN prevents this from happening with its automatic kill switch feature, which blocks your device or terminates certain programs from accessing the internet outside the secure VPN tunnel, protecting your online activity and IP address from being suddenly exposed. What’s more, NordVPN has implemented a DNS leak protection technology, ensuring that your system won’t for some reason revert to its default DNS servers and let your internet service provider know what websites you’re visiting.
Apps Galore
NordVPN has polished apps for all popular operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. You can additionally install NordVPN as a Chrome or Firefox addon and set it up on Android TV and Amazon Fire TV Stick.
The Windows client is available directly from NordVPN’s website, while the clients for macOS, iOS, and Android are available from their corresponding app stores. All clients let you quickly establish a secured VPN connection with a single click or tap, with NordVPN’s advanced algorithm taking care of everything for your and automatically selecting the best possible server option.
All in all, we’ve found all NordVPN apps to be easy to use, fast, and stable. Even the browser extensions work great, allowing you to connect to your preferred location with a simple click right from your web browser.
Verdict
Even in 2024, NordVPN remains an excellent VPN service that we can wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who doesn’t want to share their online activity with unauthorized third parties nor let geo-restrictions make websites inaccessible. NordVPN much more affordable than most other popular VPN services, yet it offers many best-in-class features as well as unmatched security.
With a single NordVPN subscription, you can secure up to 6 devices, which should be enough even for the most demanding users out there.
FAQ
What is NordVPN and how does it protect online privacy?
NordVPN is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service provider that encrypts users’ internet traffic and hides their IP address, protecting their online privacy. By rerouting traffic through secure, remote servers, NordVPN ensures that personal data is safeguarded from prying eyes and that online activities remain confidential.
Has NordVPN maintained its reputation as a top VPN service in 2024?
Yes, NordVPN has continued to uphold its reputation as a leading VPN service into 2024, receiving praise for its robust security features, fast connection speeds, and large server network across various countries.
Can NordVPN be trusted after the server hack incident?
Despite the 2024 server breach, NordVPN has taken significant steps to improve security, such as implementing a bug bounty program and undergoing an independent audit, reaffirming its commitment to user trust and safety.
What features does NordVPN offer that contribute to its top ranking?
NordVPN offers features like double encryption, CyberSec technology to block ads and malware, a strict no-logs policy, and Onion Over VPN for extra security, which all contribute to its top ranking among VPN services.
Is there a significant performance difference when using NordVPN?
While using NordVPN, some users may experience a minor decrease in internet speed due to encryption overhead, but NordVPN is optimized for performance, resulting in minimal speed reductions and maintaining fast connection speeds.
How does NordVPN ensure no-logs policy compliance?
NordVPN is based in Panama, outside the jurisdiction of the 14 Eyes alliance, and has a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently audited, ensuring that it does not store user activity logs.
How many devices can be connected to NordVPN simultaneously?
One NordVPN account allows you to secure up to 6 devices at the same time, providing flexibility and security for multiple devices under one subscription.
Does NordVPN support streaming services like Netflix and Hulu?
Yes, NordVPN effectively unblocks major streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, offering dedicated servers that bypass geo-restrictions and allow users to access a wider range of content.
Is NordVPN suitable for torrenting?
NordVPN supports P2P file sharing and provides specialized servers for torrenting, ensuring that users can securely transfer files with high-speed connections and privacy protection.
What makes NordVPN’s customer service stand out?
NordVPN offers 24/7 customer support through live chat and email, ensuring that customer inquiries are promptly and effectively addressed at any time.
Are there any affordable plans offered by NordVPN?
NordVPN provides several subscription plans, including affordable long-term options, which can significantly decrease the monthly cost and offer a good balance of value and performance.
What security protocols does NordVPN use?
NordVPN employs industry-standard security protocols, such as OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx, a WireGuard-based solution designed for enhanced security and speed.
Does NordVPN have a kill switch feature?
Yes, NordVPN incorporates a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects the device from the internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing data exposure.
How easy is it to install and use NordVPN?
The installation and setup of NordVPN are user-friendly, with intuitive apps for various platforms and devices that facilitate quick and hassle-free usage.
Can NordVPN help bypass internet censorship?
NordVPN is designed to circumvent internet censorship, enabling users to access the web freely, even in countries with strict internet restrictions.
Does NordVPN offer dedicated IP addresses?
NordVPN provides the option to purchase a dedicated IP address, which can be useful for users who need a consistent IP for specific online activities.
Is NordVPN compatible with a wide range of operating systems?
NordVPN is compatible with numerous operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, covering a broad user base.
Can NordVPN be configured on routers?
NordVPN can be configured on routers, allowing users to secure their entire home or office network with a single VPN connection.
How does NordVPN compare to other VPN providers in 2024?
In 2024, NordVPN is often compared favorably to other VPN providers due to its excellent security features, competitive pricing, extensive server network, and reliable performance.
Where can users sign up for NordVPN or learn more about it?
Users can sign up for NordVPN or learn more about its features and pricing by visiting the official website at nordvpn.com.
