Table of Contents
Introduction
NordVPN has gained popularity over the years, with its ambassador program and social media influencers promoting the virtual private network. However, despite its fame, it did not make it to the list of the nine best VPN services published in June. In this article, we will provide an honest review of NordVPN, highlighting its features, performance, pricing, and drawbacks.
Pricing and Features
When signing up for NordVPN, the process is straightforward, and users have the option to opt-in for automatic updates. Depending on the tier chosen, users can also gain access to additional features such as NordPass, the company’s password manager, or NordLocker, a file encryption software. The “complete” package is priced at $5.79 per month.
Speed and Privacy
One of the essential aspects of a VPN is its ability to maintain user privacy without compromising internet speed. NordVPN performs well in this aspect. It successfully masks the user’s IP address and passes DNS and WebRTC leak tests. Additionally, NordVPN allows easy access to geo-blocked content, smooth streaming on YouTube, and online gaming with minimal buffering. In our ping test, NordVPN only added a latency of 13 milliseconds, which is acceptable for most users.
NordVPN also offers support for up to six devices simultaneously, making it convenient for families or individuals who engage in multiple activities online. However, it is worth noting that when connected to the same server, these devices need to run on different VPN protocols. With over 5,000 servers in 60 countries, NordVPN provides reliable connectivity options for various devices, including gaming systems, Raspberry Pi devices, and streaming services.
NordVPN Cons
While NordVPN performs well in terms of speed and privacy, its security history raises some concerns. Although it utilizes AES 256-bit encryption and a modified version of the WireGuard protocol, it collects and stores unnecessary user information, compromising data privacy. Furthermore, NordVPN failed to disclose a 2018 data breach promptly, only acknowledging it after a security researcher publicly discussed it over a year later.
Another point of concern is NordVPN’s history of deceptive advertising and loaded terms. The UK-based Advertising Standards Authority ruled that a 2019 NordVPN ad was misleading, as it exaggerated the risk of data theft. Additionally, NordVPN makes bold claims about its VPN capabilities that are impossible to prove.
Conclusion
In conclusion, NordVPN is a decent option for those seeking a VPN service. It performs well in terms of speed and privacy, allowing users to access geo-blocked content and engage in online activities smoothly. However, its questionable security history and deceptive advertising practices raise concerns. Other VPN services like ProtonVPN offer a more comprehensive suite of products and higher security measures. Therefore, while NordVPN may be popular, it falls short of being one of the top choices we would recommend.
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