NordVPN is a popular VPN known for its strong security measures. The Panama-based company has a slew of security tools available, such as shared IP addresses, and because it’s based away from the EU and US (like many VPNs), it doesn’t have to collect a user’s personal data and information, so details can’t be passed to third parties.
NordVPN uses Next Generation Encryption (NGE) IKEv2/IPsec as standard and 256bit-GCM, a military-grade encryption programme. There is also the option to use “Onion over VPN” or Double VPN servers, which means data is passed through two separate VPN servers instead of one, although this takes a considerable toll on speed.
NordVPN doesn’t keep logs of online activity. This means that your private data, online activity, and browsing history can’t be monitored, gathered, exposed, or intercepted by third parties. Users can also select DNS leak protection to protect their IP address and an automatic kill switch, which either kills all programs or chosen programs if the VPN connection drops. This protects a user’s personal data from being temporarily exposed. There’s also ad-blocking functionality and protection against phishing threats.
Users can link up to six devices simultaneously to NordVPN’s servers using apps for Mac OS, Windows, iOS, and Android. The service also boasts unlimited bandwidth for torrenting, decent download speed, and a 24/7 live chat tool for support.
Notably, NordVPN is able to unblock geo-locked services including Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video making it a popular choice for one-season-a-day bingers.