Nordvpn

Is NordVPN Safe? Detailed Review

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NordVPN is a well-known VPN provider with over 14 million clients. Even though it was hacked in 2019 and has faced issues with its parent firm, NordVPN has amassed a fantastic reputation in the VPN industry.

We all run into perplexing reviews while perusing communities like Reddit. A mix of people chirping in NordVPN's defense and a few individuals complaining about inadequate services abound. So, what is the real story behind it, and why is NordVPN still such a renowned brand?

Following a litany of varied remarks, I decided to attempt and use the service myself to discover what it has to offer. As a result, this NordVPN review is a thorough investigation into all that NordVPN offers.

Who owns NordVPN?

NordVPN was established in 2008 by Tefincom & Co., SA. This company is from Panama. Panama has good laws for privacy, like no compulsory data retention laws. Plus, Panama is not part of any alliance that shares user data with other countries outside Panama's jurisdiction.

However, many individuals believe that Tefincom is not NordVPN's parent company. After you buy NordVPN, the money goes to CloudVPN Inc., controlled by the CEO of a data-harvesting firm, which some people find troubling.

Quick Overview

NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services on the market. It also offers exceptional features, such as privacy, security, and streaming capability, ensuring that it remains top. Here's a run-down of everything NordVPN has to offer:

NordVPN is one of the finest VPN providers in the business, with a wide range of features. NordVPN emerges as one of the best VPNs in the industry based on its wealth of characteristics. The article will go deep to show you how each feature improves user cyber security.

Security Features

A VPN leaking your sensitive information has no use. As a result, it's critical to check for NordVPN leaks using the various NordVPN leak tests on this page. While you're at it, keep an eye out for IP Leak, DNS Leak, and WebRTC leaks since each one of these might compromise your privacy and security.

– IP Leak Protection

The primary goal of utilizing a VPN is to conceal your IP address, and NordVPN gets the job done effectively. DURING AN IP LEAK TEST, the VPN didn't reveal the actual IP address.

– Web RTC Leak Protection 

WebRTC is a valuable feature that helps browsers maintain P2P connections while viewing audios and videos on the web. But it can also leak your public and private IP addresses. NordVPN claims to offer protection from WebRTC leaks.

NordVPN shows that it is closing all browser leaks during the WebRTC leak test by demonstrating that it is patching all of the holes in the browser.

– DNS Leak Protection 

Another critical component to consider while browsing a VPN is the presence of DNS leaks, which can disrupt your privacy. Since DNS leaks can harm your privacy, a VPN must protect DNS leaks by encrypting your DNS. You may also utilize the NordVPN DNS leak test for this purpose.

– Encryption Test 

VPN encryption is essential for maintaining data security and privacy. As a result, analyze the encryption provided by your VPN with tools such as Wireshark. NordVPN's use of Wireshark software reveals the VPN protocols and encryption techniques to users to guarantee user privacy.

We discovered that NordVPn used the most excellent VPN protocols and secure encryption algorithms when we tested it through Wireshark. The OpenVPN protocol is used by default, ensuring a secure VPN connection. NordVPN also utilizes IKEv2/IPSec and WireGuard protocols. Nord Lynx, an adaptation of the WireGuard technology, promises increased.

Supportive Features 

NordVPN's popularity isn't limited to its customers' excellent privacy and security. It also includes several valuable features that allow you to go online unrestricted. Furthermore, it enables users to watch streaming videos, torrents, and even play online games. NordVPN's helpful tools include:

Does NordVPN Works With Netflix? 

When it comes to accessing Netflix, NordVPN is one of the greatest VPNs. All credit goes to SmartPlay, which allows you to watch content that would otherwise be unavailable or prohibited.

The SmartPlay option of NordVPN disguises the user's requests by a server in a country where access to restricted websites is permitted. Because the website believes that the user is located there, it allows them access. NordVPN can utilize this function to enter various Netflix libraries in high-definition format.

Furthermore, NordVPN's vast server network and rapid speed make it simple to access Netflix without issue. It works flawlessly with American Netflix because it regularly adds new servers to its roster.

Live Sport Streaming 

NordVPN has a huge server network and lightning-fast speed, making it possible to watch live sports from anywhere in the world. For example, if you can't access live streaming of Olympic events in your region, for example. You may connect to the nearest NordVPN server and follow your favorite sports games.

Is Nordvpn Safe For Torrenting?

NordVPN also allows users to download torrents from BitTorrent, uTorrent, and Vuzu. The VPN has over 4200 optimized P2P servers with no restrictions on bandwidth or speed, an active kill switch, and strong encryption. These features provide a secure and quick torrenting experience, making NordVPN the best VPN for torrenting.

Privacy Features

A virtual private network (VPN) is a fantastic way to stay private on the internet. They come equipped with a slew of privacy-related features that give total online security and prevent users from becoming targets. NordVPN also has several privacy features built-in. The following are some examples of them:

Does Nordvpn Keep Logs?

NordVPN has a solid no-log policy and doesn't keep any connection or data logs. The activities of none of the customers are tracked, recorded, or given to a third party.

However, the firm claims to keep some data to maintain its service. The following is a list of collected information:

  • Username and timestamp of the last session
  • Server load information
  • Connectivity information

Does Nordvpn Keep Logs

It may appear frightening at first, but there's nothing to be concerned about. It's because the data you've supplied has no ties to your surfing habits or other personal information that might expose your real identity.

Recognized audit companies have audited NordVPN on multiple occasions. NordVPN's data and system audit were designed to look for potential flaws or security breaches. The log audit report satisfied customers who trusted the company due to it.

In 2018, NordVPN servers were hacked, but Hackers stole no information. There was no evidence that the hacker observed or tampered with the data traffic. However, it was a big issue since many people began to doubt NordVPN's trustworthiness. The service provider took this incident seriously and commissioned an audit of all of its servers.

The Switzerland-based audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) did two audits of NordVPN. The first audit was in 2018, while the second was in 2020. In both audits, the auditors confirmed that NordVPN does not store any connection or data logs, IP addresses, or other internet activity.

NordVPN also went through app security testing. NordVPN hired VerSprite, a cybersecurity consulting firm, to carry out penetration tests on their apps in 2019. During the trial, VerSprite finds no bugs or severe vulnerabilities.

NordVPN also launched a warrant Canary, in which they verify that they have complete control over their infrastructure. Neither have they received any warning letters or gag orders from the legal authorities, nor are they sharing customer information with any third party.

Double VPN 

NordVPN's Double VPN is a complex security feature. Instead of one, it uses two VPN servers to redirect your data. It means that it encrypts your data twice, making hacking or cybercrime more difficult.

NordVPN's Double VPN feature makes your online security stronger because it is difficult to distinguish between the UDP and TCP protocols. The double VPN servers are in different locations. This makes it harder for someone to find out where you are. The multihop VPN connection also makes it harder for someone to track you.

This security feature is suitable for journalists, social and political activists, and anyone who wants to get around government restrictions. But it has a downside–it makes your encryption twice as slow.

CyberSec

NordVPN also has a plan for when your online activity is interrupted by malware or any other hazard. CyberSec is a cutting-edge technology that protects you from phishing and malware scams by blocklisting harmful websites.

It also protects your device from being infected by advertising botnets. It also protects the user from annoying pop-up advertisements. Furthermore, it prevents the computer from becoming a member of a botnet army. All of this ensures safe online surfing on the internet.

Onion over VPN 

Experts suggest using a VPN compatible with Tor because it will provide layered encryption, making it difficult for someone to hack into your data or spy on you.

Fortunately, NordVPN is one of the few VPNs that support Onion over VPN. At the time of writing, NordVPN has over 25 Tor-friendly servers. Before connecting to the onion network, NordVPN encrypts your data traffic using OpenVPN protocol and masks your IP address using the Tor browser. It protects you from prying eyes by encrypting your internet traffic and routing it through the Tor network. Onion over VPN is a feature of NordVPN utilized by journalists, travelers, and those living under oppressive regimes.

You are connecting to the Tor network through a VPN service, such as NordVPN, which masks your usage of the Tor browser from your ISP. It also aids in overcoming ISP throttling and improving Tor connection speeds.

Split Tunneling 

Split tunneling is another helpful feature offered by NordVPN. It creates two separate tunnels for your data, allowing you to pick which traffic should go through the VPN and which should not. Gamers may utilize this function to play their game while maintaining online privacy and security. This function is also helpful while downloading torrents.

Dedicated IP 

NordVPN offers a dedicated IP address in five countries: France, Germany, Netherlands, the UK, and the US. A NordVPN dedicated IP address is $70/per year.

NordVPN's dedicated IP feature encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address and location. This makes your online security stronger. Furthermore, this NordVPN feature keeps your online payments safe, secures communication to business servers, and protects you from being blocked online.

Obfuscated Servers

If you want to get around internet restrictions or censorship, NordVPN has a solution for you. Their obfuscated servers make your traffic look like regular traffic so that it can bypass censorship.

These servers change your data packets and disable deep inspection packets. As a result, firewalls or tools that block the VPN traffic fail to detect that you are using a VPN, and it passes. NordVPN's obfuscated servers make it the best VPN for a place with many restrictions like China.

Multi-Factor Authentication 

NordVPN's multi-factor authentication option adds an extra layer of protection to your Nord account. It also utilizes USB security keys to secure your account. You can also use popular authenticator apps on your NordVPN accounts, such as Authy, Google Authenticator, and Microsoft Authenticator.

SOCKS5 Proxy

SOCKS5 proxies are lightweight proxies that work faster than a VPN and can handle traffic from any protocol. You can utilize specific NordVPN servers as SOCKS5 proxies, which will increase upload and download speeds while torrenting. It also prevents your IP address from being swarmed by a large number of peers, as well as protects you against

Using NordVPN's SOCKS5 proxies to encrypt and disguise your traffic is a great way to improve your online security. It prevents ISPs, third parties, and trackers from tracking your online activity.

NordLynx

NordLynx is a cutting-edge technology based on the WireGuard protocol. Users may enjoy fast speed while keeping their privacy secure. The WireGuard protocol is still under development and isn't widely used yet. It's lightning-fast, features cutting-edge encryption techniques, and leaves behind the most popular OpenVPN protocol. The protocol also claims to provide fast speeds but not complete anonymity.

Other Services by NordVPN

NordVPN is a member of the Nord Security program, which offers various cybersecurity services. In 2019, NordVPN introduced two new tools: NordPass – a password manager and NordLocker – a file encryption tool.

Security-enhancing solutions have many advantages for users, and they're both praised by major cybersecurity organizations and websites. They provide outstanding characteristics, some of which are listed below.

WordPress

NordVPN has introduced NordPass, a password manager that it previously launched. It's a simple and easy-to-use tool for managing and protecting passwords. You may also use this tool to generate and remember complex passwords for each account.

It has all of the features that a password manager should have. It performs many tasks, including syncing and storing your passwords, auto-filling them, and more. The following are some additional characteristics of this program:

  • Identifies weak links to secure your accounts. 
  • It uses XChaCha20 encryption for encrypting your data.
  • Allows users to set up two-factor authentication and an OTP generator on all of their accounts by adding a layer of protection.
  • NordPass undergoes an independent third-party audit by Cure53.
  • The password manager saves all of your passwords in the cloud, even if your device crashes.
  • All these features make NordPass a safe tool to use.

NordLocker

NordLocker is a file encryption software that works with end-to-end encrypted cloud storage. It's a great alternative to Google Drive and Dropbox for keeping files safe, and it works on both Mac and Windows. The following are some of NordLocker's notable features:

It's possible to share encrypted files with other NordLocker users. NordVPN encrypts your data and secures it before sending it to the secure cloud, making all of your files available at any time and from anywhere.

The NordVPN iOS app has a Share Locker function to share lockers with other NordVPN subscribers via email. The cloud locker data is backed up automatically. NordLocker uses the most secure encryption techniques and ciphers, including Aragon2, ECC, and AES-256. They all encrypt the information and keep it safe.

There are two versions of the software: free and premium. The free plan has less cloud storage capacity and fewer features than the premium version. A free and basic strategy is rarely a bad idea if you're new to this. Here are some more facts that you need to know about NordVPN.

How Many UK Servers Does NordVPN have?

With over 5,000 servers in 60 locations, NordVPN has a vast server network that makes for quick connections. The United Kingdom features 432 of its servers, 44 percent of the total number.

Is NordVPN legal?

In most nations, NordVPN is perfectly legal. VPNs are restricted or prohibited in several countries owing to stringent legislation regarding freedom of speech, civil rights, internet privacy, and anonymity technologies.

NordVPN is illegal to use in the following countries:

  • Belarus
  • China
  • Iraq
  • North Korea
  • Russia
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates

If you are living in any of the countries mentioned above and try to use VPN to circumvent the government-imposed restrictions or attempt to access any blocked sites so, in turn, the ISP might stop you. 

What Servers Does NordVPN Have?

NordVPN includes more than 5,000 servers, the usual servers for fast connections. Other than this, NordVPN provides five unique server types. The following are three of them:

Dedicated P2P servers- These servers help you download torrents. Obfuscated servers help you get around strict censorship, like in China, so that you can access the internet easily. Onion over VPN servers – When you use the Tor browser, these servers make it harder for people to track you. Two-by-two VPN servers. These servers pass your VPN connection through two tunnels before delivering it to your target. Although they provide additional security, their use decreases connection speed.

Dedicated IP servers – If you want to use them, you'll have to pay for them separately. The primary purpose of these servers is to provide you with a unique IP address and make you more anonymous and secure on the internet.

How Many Users Can Connect to NordVPN?

NordVPN is a trusted privacy tool that many people use worldwide on different platforms and devices. You can also get NordVPN on your mobile phone. It lets you connect up to six devices simultaneously on one account.

Is NordVPN Worth the Money?

Based on our NordVPN review, we think it is a good investment if you care about online privacy and data security. It provides excellent privacy and security, plus breakneck speeds. It also offers military-grade encryption, downloads torrents, and unblocks Netflix and other streaming platforms.

Does NordVPN Report Illegal Activity?

NordVPN does not keep track of or store traffic or connection logs. This means that if anyone uses NordVPN to do something illegal, they will not know about it and cannot report it. NordVPN is a high-quality VPN that doesn't have a free plan. However, it does offer a 30-day risk-free trial period and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Final Verdict

At present, NordVPN is, without a doubt, the finest VPN. It delivers on every one of its promises for maximum security and privacy. Unblocking Netflix and a strict no-log policy distinguish it from the competition. Choosing NordVPN has taken away all my worries, and I am confident that nothing can take down this service.

NordVPN is a VPN with incredible speeds and servers across the globe and provides an excellent level of security and privacy. If you're looking for a virtual private network to use, we recommend NordVPN as one of the best choices.