Quick Start
This guide covers every NordVPN feature:
- Getting Started — Create account and connect in minutes
- How to Use Threat Protection Pro — Block ads, malware, and trackers automatically
- How to Use Dedicated IP — Get your own private IP address
- How to Use Dark Web Monitor — Get alerts if your data leaks online
- How to Use Meshnet — Connect devices in a private network
- How to Use Split Tunneling — Choose which apps use the VPN
- How to Use SmartPlay — Access geo-restricted streaming content
- How to Use Secure Encryption — Protect data with AES-256 and NordLynx
- How to Use Private DNS — Prevent DNS leaks and sniffing
Time needed: 5 minutes per feature
Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives
Why Trust This Guide
I’ve used NordVPN for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.
NordVPN is one of the most powerful VPN tools available today.
But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.
This guide shows you how to use every major feature.
Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.
NordVPN Tutorial
This complete NordVPN tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.
NordVPN
Protect your online privacy with military-grade encryption and 6,800+ servers in 111 countries. NordVPN blocks ads, malware, and trackers while keeping your browsing private. Try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Getting Started with NordVPN
Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.
It takes about 3 minutes.
Step 1: Create Your Account
Go to NordVPN’s website.
Click “Get NordVPN” or “Start Free Trial.”
Choose a plan and enter your email address.
Complete the payment using card, PayPal, or crypto.
✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for a confirmation email from NordVPN.
Step 2: Download the NordVPN App
NordVPN works on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Download the app from NordVPN’s website or your device’s app store.
Install and open the app on your device.
Log in with your new account credentials.
Here’s what the dashboard looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the world map with server locations.
Step 3: Connect to Your First Server
Click the “Quick Connect” button for the fastest server.
Or pick a specific country from the server list on the left.
The status bar will show “Connected” with your new IP.
✅ Done: You’re connected and protected. You’re ready to use any feature below.
How to Use NordVPN Threat Protection Pro
Threat Protection Pro lets you block ads, malware, and trackers without connecting to a VPN server.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Threat Protection Pro in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open the Threat Protection Tab
Click the shield icon in the left sidebar of NordVPN.
This opens the Threat Protection Pro settings panel.
Step 2: Toggle On Threat Protection Pro
Flip the main toggle to enable Threat Protection Pro.
Choose between “Full” mode (blocks malware files) or “Lite” mode (DNS-level blocking only).
✓ Checkpoint: The shield icon should turn green when active.
Step 3: Browse and Check the Activity Log
Visit any website normally to see blocking in action.
Click “Activity Log” to view blocked threats and trackers.
✅ Result: Ads, trackers, and malicious domains are now blocked on every site you visit — even without a VPN connection.
💡 Pro Tip: Threat Protection Pro works even when you’re not connected to a VPN server. Keep it on all the time for constant protection against phishing sites and malware downloads.
How to Use NordVPN Dedicated IP
Dedicated IP lets you get a static IP address that only you use.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Dedicated IP in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Purchase a Dedicated IP Add-On
Go to your NordVPN account dashboard online.
Navigate to “Services” and select “Dedicated IP.”
Choose your preferred server location for the IP.
Step 2: Connect to Your Dedicated IP Server
Open the NordVPN app and go to “Specialty Servers.”
Find “Dedicated IP” in the list and click connect.
✓ Checkpoint: Your IP address should match the dedicated IP shown in your account.
Step 3: Verify Your Static IP
Visit an IP checker site to confirm your dedicated address.
Disconnect and reconnect — the IP stays the same every time.
✅ Result: You now have a private, static IP that won’t change. This avoids CAPTCHAs, IP blocklists, and shared-IP bans.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a Dedicated IP for online banking and business logins. A consistent IP address reduces security flags and account lockouts.
How to Use NordVPN Dark Web Monitor
Dark Web Monitor lets you get alerts if your credentials appear in data breaches.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Dark Web Monitor in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open Dark Web Monitor
Click the radar icon in the NordVPN app sidebar.
Or go to “Dark Web Monitor” under the tools menu.
Step 2: Enable Monitoring
Toggle on Dark Web Monitor to start scanning.
NordVPN will check your email against known breach databases.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a status showing “Monitoring active” or a list of any detected breaches.
Step 3: Review Alerts and Take Action
Check the alerts panel for any leaked credentials.
Change passwords immediately for any flagged accounts.
✅ Result: You’ll receive real-time alerts whenever your email or credentials appear in a new data breach.
💡 Pro Tip: Pair Dark Web Monitor with a password manager like NordPass. When a breach is detected, you can update that password in one click.
How to Use NordVPN Meshnet
Meshnet lets you create a private encrypted network between your devices.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Meshnet in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Enable Meshnet
Open NordVPN and click the Meshnet tab in the sidebar.
Toggle on “Enable Meshnet” on each device you want connected.
Step 2: Link Your Devices
Your own devices appear automatically under “Your devices.”
To add other people’s devices, click “Invite” and enter their email.
They’ll get an invite to join your Meshnet.
✓ Checkpoint: Connected devices show green dots next to their names.
Step 3: Route Traffic or Access Files
Right-click a linked device and select “Route traffic.”
This lets you browse the internet through that device’s connection.
You can also access shared files between Meshnet devices.
✅ Result: Your devices are now linked in a private encrypted network. You can share files, route traffic, and access remote devices securely.
💡 Pro Tip: Use Meshnet for LAN gaming with friends in different locations. Route traffic through a friend’s device to play together as if you’re on the same network.
How to Use NordVPN Split Tunneling
Split Tunneling lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Split Tunneling in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click the gear icon in NordVPN to open Settings.
Navigate to “Split Tunneling” under the connection settings.
Step 2: Choose Your Split Tunneling Mode
Select “Enable split tunneling” and pick a mode.
“Disable VPN for selected apps” keeps most traffic protected.
“Enable VPN for selected apps” only protects the apps you pick.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a list of installed apps to select from.
Step 3: Select Your Apps and Connect
Check the boxes next to the apps you want to include or exclude.
Connect to a VPN server as usual.
The selected apps now follow your split tunneling rules.
✅ Result: Only the apps you choose are routed through the VPN. Everything else uses your regular connection.
💡 Pro Tip: Exclude banking apps from the VPN to avoid account flags. Keep your browser and torrenting apps on the VPN for privacy.
How to Use NordVPN SmartPlay
SmartPlay lets you access geo-restricted streaming content from anywhere.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See SmartPlay in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Verify SmartPlay Is Enabled
SmartPlay is built into NordVPN and enabled by default.
No extra setup or settings changes are needed.
Step 2: Connect to the Right Country
Pick the country where your streaming content is available.
For US Netflix, connect to a United States server.
For BBC iPlayer, connect to a United Kingdom server.
✓ Checkpoint: The NordVPN app should show “Connected” to your chosen country.
Step 3: Open Your Streaming App
Launch Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or any streaming service.
The content library should now match the connected country.
SmartPlay handles the DNS routing behind the scenes.
✅ Result: You can now watch geo-restricted shows and movies from any country. SmartPlay combines VPN and Smart DNS for smooth streaming.
💡 Pro Tip: If a stream won’t load, try a different server in the same country. Some servers work better with specific platforms.
How to Use NordVPN Secure Encryption
Secure Encryption lets you protect all your traffic with AES-256 encryption and the NordLynx protocol.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Secure Encryption in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open Protocol Settings
Go to Settings in the NordVPN app.
Find “VPN Protocol” under the connection section.
Step 2: Select Your Preferred Protocol
Choose NordLynx for the fastest speeds with strong privacy.
Select OpenVPN (UDP) for a balance of speed and stability.
Pick OpenVPN (TCP) if you’re on a restrictive network.
✓ Checkpoint: The selected protocol should appear in your connection settings.
Step 3: Enable Double VPN for Extra Security
Go to “Specialty Servers” and select “Double VPN.”
This routes your traffic through two servers for double encryption.
Connect and browse with maximum protection.
✅ Result: Your internet traffic is now encrypted with AES-256 military-grade encryption. No one can read your data — not hackers, not your ISP.
💡 Pro Tip: Stick with NordLynx for daily use. It’s built on WireGuard and gives you the fastest speeds while keeping your data fully encrypted.
How to Use NordVPN Private DNS
Private DNS lets you prevent DNS leaks that could expose your browsing activity.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Private DNS in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Confirm Private DNS Is Active
NordVPN runs its own DNS servers by default.
Open Settings and navigate to the DNS section to verify.
Step 2: Run a DNS Leak Test
Connect to any NordVPN server first.
Visit a DNS leak test website like dnsleaktest.com.
Click “Extended Test” to run a thorough check.
✓ Checkpoint: All DNS queries should show NordVPN’s servers — not your ISP’s DNS.
Step 3: Set Custom DNS (Optional)
If needed, go to Settings and find “Custom DNS.”
Enter your preferred DNS server address.
This overrides NordVPN’s default DNS for advanced users.
✅ Result: All your DNS queries are now handled through NordVPN’s private servers. Your ISP cannot see which websites you visit.
💡 Pro Tip: Run a DNS leak test once a month, especially after updating NordVPN or your operating system. Updates can sometimes reset DNS settings.
How to Use NordVPN on Multiple Devices
Multiple Devices lets you protect up to 10 devices with a single NordVPN account.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Multiple Devices in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Download NordVPN on Each Device
Install the NordVPN app on your phone, tablet, laptop, and desktop.
Use the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or website download.
Step 2: Log In With the Same Account
Use your NordVPN email and password on every device.
Each device connects independently to different servers.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see your account active on each device’s NordVPN app.
Step 3: Set Up on Your Router (Optional)
Install NordVPN on your router to protect every device at home.
This covers smart TVs, gaming consoles, and IoT devices too.
A router counts as one device toward your 10-device limit.
✅ Result: All your devices are now protected with one NordVPN account. You can connect up to 10 devices at the same time.
💡 Pro Tip: Set up NordVPN on your router instead of each device. One router connection protects your entire home network — including smart TVs and game consoles that don’t support VPN apps.
NordVPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts
After testing NordVPN for over two years, here are my best tips.
Keyboard Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Quick Connect | Ctrl + Shift + C (Windows) |
| Disconnect | Ctrl + Shift + D (Windows) |
| Open NordVPN from Tray | Double-click system tray icon |
| Switch Server | Right-click tray → Change Server |
Hidden Features Most People Miss
- Auto-Connect on Wi-Fi: Set NordVPN to connect automatically whenever you join an untrusted Wi-Fi network. Find this under Settings → Auto-Connect.
- Obfuscated Servers: Access the internet freely in restrictive regions. Go to Specialty Servers → Obfuscated to disguise your VPN traffic as normal browsing.
- Kill Switch: Enable this in Settings to instantly cut internet access if your VPN drops. This prevents any data from leaking through an unprotected connection.
NordVPN Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Not Enabling the Kill Switch
❌ Wrong: Leaving Kill Switch off and browsing without noticing the VPN disconnected. Your real IP gets exposed to every site you visit.
✅ Right: Enable Kill Switch in Settings right after installing NordVPN. This cuts your internet instantly if the VPN connection drops.
Mistake #2: Connecting to a Distant Server
❌ Wrong: Always connecting to a server on the other side of the world. This causes slow speeds and high latency for everyday browsing.
✅ Right: Use “Quick Connect” to pick the fastest nearby server. Only connect to distant servers when you need a specific country’s content.
Mistake #3: Forgetting to Turn On Auto-Connect
❌ Wrong: Manually connecting every time you open your laptop or phone. You forget half the time and browse unprotected on public Wi-Fi.
✅ Right: Enable Auto-Connect in Settings so NordVPN protects you the moment you go online. Set it to activate on untrusted networks for extra safety.
NordVPN Troubleshooting
Problem: NordVPN Won’t Connect
Cause: Firewall or antivirus software blocking the VPN connection, or a corrupted app cache.
Fix: Restart the app and try a different server. If that fails, switch the VPN protocol from NordLynx to OpenVPN in Settings. Also check that your firewall allows NordVPN through.
Problem: Slow Connection Speeds
Cause: You’re connected to a distant or overloaded server, or using the wrong protocol.
Fix: Click “Quick Connect” to find the fastest server near you. Switch to the NordLynx protocol for the best speeds. Close other bandwidth-heavy apps running in the background.
Problem: Streaming Service Blocked With VPN On
Cause: The streaming platform detected your server’s IP address and blocked it.
Fix: Disconnect and reconnect to a different server in the same country. Clear your browser cache and cookies before trying again. NordVPN updates server IPs regularly to avoid blocks.
📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact NordVPN support via 24/7 live chat.
What is NordVPN?
NordVPN is a VPN service that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address.
Think of it like a private tunnel between your device and the internet that no one can see into.
Watch this quick overview:
It includes these key features:
- Threat Protection Pro: Blocks ads, malware, and trackers without a VPN connection
- Dedicated IP: Gives you a private static IP address only you use
- Dark Web Monitor: Alerts you when your credentials appear in data breaches
- Meshnet: Creates a private encrypted network between your devices
- Split Tunneling: Lets you choose which apps use the VPN
- SmartPlay: Unlocks geo-restricted streaming content from anywhere
- Secure Encryption: AES-256 encryption with NordLynx protocol for fast, secure connections
- Private DNS: Runs DNS queries through NordVPN’s own servers to prevent leaks
- Multiple Devices: Protect up to 10 devices with one account
For a full review, see our NordVPN review.
NordVPN Pricing
Here’s what NordVPN costs in 2026:
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2.99/mo | Casual users who want a fast, reliable VPN |
| Plus | $3.49/mo | Users who want malware protection and a password manager |
| Complete | $5.39/mo | Power users who need encrypted cloud storage and full protection |
Free trial: 7-day free trial on Android (via Google Play). 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
Money-back guarantee: Yes, 30 days. Full refund, no questions asked.
💰 Best Value: Plus plan — includes Threat Protection Pro and NordPass password manager for just $0.50 more per month than Basic.
NordVPN vs Alternatives
How does NordVPN compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:
Watch this comparison:
| Tool | Best For | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Overall best VPN | $2.99/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
| ExpressVPN | Fastest speeds | $2.44/mo | ⭐ 4.6 |
| Surfshark | Unlimited devices | $1.99/mo | ⭐ 4.4 |
| ProtonVPN | Best free plan | $0.00/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
| CyberGhost | Streaming servers | $2.03/mo | ⭐ 4.3 |
| PureVPN | Budget-friendly | $2.15/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Private Internet Access | Open-source privacy | $2.03/mo | ⭐ 4.2 |
| Mysterium | Decentralized VPN | $2.49/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
Quick picks:
- Best overall: NordVPN — fastest speeds, strongest security, and 6,800+ servers worldwide
- Best budget: Surfshark — unlimited devices at just $1.99/mo on a 2-year plan
- Best for beginners: CyberGhost — simple interface with pre-configured streaming servers
- Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based with a verified no-logs policy and free plan
🎯 NordVPN Alternatives
Looking for NordVPN alternatives? Here are the top options:
- 🚀 ExpressVPN: Blazing-fast speeds with servers in 105 countries. Best for users who want top-tier performance and easy setup.
- 💰 PureVPN: Affordable VPN with a large server network. Great for budget-conscious users who still want solid encryption.
- 🎨 Surfshark: Unlimited device connections at a low price. Perfect for families or users with many gadgets to protect.
- ⚡ ProtonVPN: Swiss-based VPN with a free plan and strict no-logs policy. Best pick for privacy-focused users.
- 🔒 PrivadoVPN: Free VPN with 10GB monthly data and servers in 49 cities. Good entry-level option for light users.
- 🧠 AdGuard VPN: Built-in ad blocker combined with VPN protection. Best for users who want fewer ads and more privacy in one app.
- 👶 Virtual Shield: Simple VPN with identity protection features. Ideal for beginners who want all-in-one online security.
- 🏢 StrongVPN: Reliable VPN with WireGuard support and no data limits. Good for users who want simple, fast protection.
- 🔧 FastestVPN: Lifetime plan available at a one-time fee. Best for users who want long-term VPN access at the lowest total cost.
- 🌟 Aura VPN: Identity theft protection bundled with VPN. Best for users who want credit monitoring and privacy in one package.
- ⭐ CyberGhost: Dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting. Great for users who want one-click access to Netflix, Hulu, and more.
- 🎯 McAfee VPN: VPN bundled with antivirus and identity monitoring. Best for users already using McAfee security products.
- 💼 Private Internet Access: Open-source VPN with proven no-logs policy. Strong choice for tech-savvy users who value transparency.
- 📊 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN powered by a peer-to-peer network. Best for users who want a VPN not controlled by a single company.
- 🔥 SafeShell VPN: Lightweight VPN with split tunneling and streaming support. Good for users who want a simple, affordable option.
- 🛡️ Oyster VPN: Fast VPN with servers in 50+ countries. Solid pick for users who want a newer VPN with competitive pricing.
For the full list, see our NordVPN alternatives guide.
⚔️ NordVPN Compared
Here’s how NordVPN stacks up against each competitor:
- NordVPN vs ExpressVPN: NordVPN wins on price and server count. ExpressVPN edges ahead on raw speed. Both offer top-tier security.
- NordVPN vs PureVPN: NordVPN has better encryption and Threat Protection. PureVPN is cheaper but less feature-rich.
- NordVPN vs Surfshark: NordVPN is faster and has more servers. Surfshark wins with unlimited device connections at a lower price.
- NordVPN vs ProtonVPN: NordVPN is faster with more features. ProtonVPN offers a free tier and is based in privacy-friendly Switzerland.
- NordVPN vs PrivadoVPN: NordVPN is better in every category. PrivadoVPN is a decent free alternative with limited data.
- NordVPN vs AdGuard VPN: NordVPN has a bigger server network and more features. AdGuard VPN is better if you mainly want ad blocking.
- NordVPN vs Virtual Shield: NordVPN wins on speed and server count. Virtual Shield adds identity protection but costs much more.
- NordVPN vs StrongVPN: NordVPN has more features and a larger network. StrongVPN is a simpler, no-frills option.
- NordVPN vs FastestVPN: NordVPN is faster and more reliable. FastestVPN’s lifetime plan offers better long-term value on a tight budget.
- NordVPN vs Aura VPN: NordVPN is a much better VPN. Aura VPN focuses more on identity theft protection than VPN performance.
- NordVPN vs CyberGhost: NordVPN is faster with better security. CyberGhost has more dedicated streaming servers and a simpler interface.
- NordVPN vs McAfee VPN: NordVPN is a far superior VPN. McAfee VPN is a basic add-on bundled with antivirus software.
- NordVPN vs Private Internet Access: NordVPN has better speeds and more polished apps. PIA wins on being fully open-source.
- NordVPN vs Mysterium: NordVPN is faster and easier to use. Mysterium offers a unique decentralized approach for advanced users.
- NordVPN vs SafeShell VPN: NordVPN has more servers and better security features. SafeShell is a lightweight, simpler alternative.
- NordVPN vs Oyster VPN: NordVPN wins on features, speed, and server count. Oyster VPN is a newer, smaller competitor with less track record.
Start Using NordVPN Now
You learned how to use every major NordVPN feature:
- ✅ Threat Protection Pro
- ✅ Dedicated IP
- ✅ Dark Web Monitor
- ✅ Meshnet
- ✅ Split Tunneling
- ✅ SmartPlay
- ✅ Secure Encryption
- ✅ Private DNS
- ✅ Multiple Devices
Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.
Most people start with Quick Connect and Threat Protection Pro.
It takes less than 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I actually use NordVPN?
Download the NordVPN app on your device, log in with your account, and click “Quick Connect.” The app automatically picks the fastest server near you. Your internet traffic is now encrypted and your IP address is hidden. You can also pick a specific country from the server list if you need a particular location.
How do I use NordVPN for beginners?
Install the app, create an account, and press the big “Quick Connect” button. That’s all you need to do. NordVPN handles server selection, encryption, and DNS protection automatically. For extra safety, turn on Kill Switch and Auto-Connect in the Settings menu.
How do I know if NordVPN is working?
Check the NordVPN app — it shows “Connected” with a green indicator when active. You can also visit an IP checker website to verify your IP has changed. If the IP matches a NordVPN server location instead of your real location, the VPN is working correctly.
Does NordVPN automatically connect?
Yes, if you enable Auto-Connect in Settings. You can set NordVPN to connect every time you turn on your device or only when you join an untrusted Wi-Fi network. This keeps you protected without having to remember to manually connect each time.
Is NordVPN difficult to use?
Not at all. NordVPN is designed for beginners with a one-click connect button and a clean interface. Advanced features like Split Tunneling and Meshnet are optional. Most users only need to press “Quick Connect” and they’re protected instantly.
Should I leave my NordVPN on all the time?
Yes, keeping NordVPN on at all times gives you constant protection. It encrypts your traffic, hides your IP, and blocks trackers in the background. The performance impact is minimal with the NordLynx protocol, so most users won’t notice any slowdown during daily browsing.
Can I be tracked if I use NordVPN?
NordVPN makes tracking extremely difficult. It uses AES-256 encryption, hides your real IP, and has a strict no-logs policy. Your ISP can see that you’re using a VPN but cannot see what you’re doing online. For maximum anonymity, enable Kill Switch and use NordVPN’s obfuscated servers.
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