We wrote about NordVPN back in 2016 on thetechhacker and called it “the world’s most advanced VPN.” That was almost 10 years ago. A lot has changed since then. So we decided to test NordVPN again in 2025 to see if it’s still good or just living off its old reputation.
NordVPN is a very good old name in the VPN industry and still one of my favorites to bypass the unwanted restriction rules. So I tried the latest version of the NordVPN again in 2025 to test its capabilities in the world of aggressive online restrictions and rules.
Getting Started
Installing NordVPN is really simple. You don’t need to be tech-savvy at all. Here’s what you do:
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Go to their website and download the app
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Create your account (or log in if you already have one)
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Install it and you’re done
The whole thing takes maybe 5 minutes. When I installed it on my Windows laptop, it was just click-click-done. No complicated settings or confusing options.
What’s New Since 2016
A lot has changed. Back then, NordVPN had maybe a few hundred servers. Now they have over 7,900 servers in 126 countries. That’s massive growth.
But the biggest changes are the new features they added:
Threat Protection Pro—This is like having antivirus built into your VPN. It blocks bad websites, stops malware downloads, and even warns you if hackers steal your login info. Pretty cool stuff.
Meshnet—This lets you connect your devices together securely, even if they’re far apart. Like you can connect your home computer to your laptop when traveling.
Dark Web Monitor—This checks if your email or passwords got leaked online and tells you about it.
Enhanced Security in 2025
NordVPN’s security foundation has significantly strengthened since our previous review. The service now operates over 7,900 servers across 126 countries, providing extensive global coverage and redundancy. The protocol suite includes NordLynx (their enhanced WireGuard implementation), OpenVPN, and the new NordWhisper protocol specifically designed to bypass restrictive network environments like office or school networks.
The encryption remains military-grade with AES-256-bit protection, complemented by features like an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, and the innovative double VPN option that routes traffic through two servers for extra security. Independent audits continue to verify their strict no-logs policy, ensuring user activity remains private and unrecorded.
How Fast Is It Really?
Speed is what everyone cares about. Nobody wants a slow VPN that makes Netflix buffer every 5 minutes.
Good news—NordVPN is still really fast. In tests done by experts, it only slowed down the internet by about 3-7% on average. That’s barely noticeable.
I tested it myself while watching YouTube videos and Netflix. No buffering issues at all. I even tried some online games and didn’t notice any lag problems.
Does It Work With Netflix and Streaming?
Yes, it works great. I tested it with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming sites. Connected to a US server and got access to American Netflix shows that aren’t available in India. No problems at all. The streaming worked smoothly without any buffering. Even watched stuff in 4K quality, and it was fine.
Security: Is Your Data Actually Safe?
This is the most important part. What’s the point of a VPN if it doesn’t keep you safe? NordVPN uses something called AES-256 encryption. It is a military-grade protection, which is really strong.
They also have a “no logs” policy. That means they don’t save records of what websites you visit. This has been checked by outside companies multiple times to make sure it’s true.
Other security features:
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Kill switch – cuts your internet if VPN disconnects
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No DNS leaks – your browsing stays private
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Double VPN – sends your data through two servers for extra protection
How Much Does It Cost?
Here’s where it gets tricky. NordVPN has good prices if you pay for 2 years upfront, around ₹345 ($3.09) per month.
But if you just want to try it for one month, it costs about ₹875 ($10.49). That’s expensive.
The long-term plans are definitely a better value. You also get 30 days money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
What Works Well
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Really fast speeds barely notice any slowdown
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Works with Netflix and streaming sites
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Easy-to-use apps on phone, computer, everything
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Lots of servers worldwide over 7,900
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Strong security with no-logs policy
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New features like malware protection
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Good customer support is available. 24/7
Issues We Found
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Only 10 devices at same time (might not be enough for big families)
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Monthly plans are expensive
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Some features only work on certain servers
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Renewal prices go up after first term
How Does It Compare to Others?
Compared to ExpressVPN and Surfshark (the other big names), NordVPN sits right in the middle.
ExpressVPN is more expensive but slightly easier to use. Surfshark is cheaper and allows unlimited devices. But NordVPN has the best balance of features, speed, and price.
My Honest Opinion
After testing NordVPN for several weeks in 2025, I think it’s still one of the best VPNs you can get. It’s much better than it was in 2016.
The new security features are genuinely useful. The speed is excellent. And it works reliably for streaming and everyday use.
Is it perfect? No. The 10-device limit is annoying, and monthly pricing is too high. But if you get a long-term plan, it’s good value.
Would I recommend it? Yes, especially if you want something that just works without fuss. It’s reliable, fast, and secure.
Pros and Cons
Pro’s:
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Fast speeds with minimal slowdown
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Strong security and privacy protection
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Works great for Netflix and streaming
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Easy apps that anyone can use
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Lots of servers worldwide
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Good customer support
Con’s:
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Limited to 10 devices only
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Monthly plans cost too much
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Some advanced features need specific servers
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Prices increase after the first term.
FAQs
Q1: Is NordVPN actually safe to use?
Yes, it uses strong military-grade encryption and has been audited multiple times by independent companies. They don’t keep logs of your browsing activity.
Q2: Will it slow down my internet?
Very little. Most people only see 3-7% speed reduction, which you probably won’t even notice during normal browsing or streaming.
Q3: Can I watch Netflix with NordVPN?
Yes, it works well with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming services. You can access content from different countries easily.
Q4: How many devices can I use it on?
You can use it on up to 10 devices at the same time with one account. This includes phones, computers, tablets, etc.
Q5: Is it worth paying for compared to free VPNs?
Definitely. Free VPNs are usually slow and unreliable and may not protect your privacy properly. NordVPN is much more reliable and secure.