Designed for today, built to grow
Based on ever-changing trends in app design, UI, and user browsing preferences, NordVPN’s desktop app’s earlier structure no longer supported its functionalities effectively. Alongside our ongoing research, we conducted user interviews, gaining a better understanding of how the app fits into present-day routines, and saw the need for substantial changes.
The results showed that some users are not sure about what kind of connection to use and may not feel confident about picking the best option. In addition, while searching for a solution to support first-time users, we learned that guiding them through the first minutes after opening the app increased their confidence in exploring further. Based on this information, we concentrated our efforts on making the app more intuitive and simpler to use, without limiting more advanced capabilities for seasoned users.
As part of that work, we built a stronger foundation for ongoing improvements and a more consistent experience across platforms. The result of this effort is a newly redesigned NordVPN desktop app that aims to provide you just that.
New look: Clear, focused, and instantly familiar
Based on user feedback and today’s design tendencies, the app’s new look reflects trends while staying true to NordVPN’s identity. To achieve that, we simplified layouts and reduced unnecessary distractions to help you focus on what matters most. The updated design reflects these changes through main sections like the connection area, search, your profile, and recent connections.
A better way to connect
The location suggested for you now appears right from the start, even before you take any action. If you set a preferred location during the app's setup process or in the settings, that choice takes priority and shows up instead. Your security status and key connection actions are also instantly visible the second you turn on the app.
If you like to keep your connection details easily accessible, you can turn on “Show connection details” in the three-dot menu. That will ensure that your current IP address, server number, and connection time are always in front of you the second you open the NordVPN app. From the same three-dot menu, you can also reconnect, switch locations, open VPN settings, or access help resources if the app isn’t working as expected.
The updated recent connections section now adds more visibility to your go-to locations and servers, including your dedicated IP when available. We’ve also made some changes in the layout to make each option easier to scan and select.
One unified search
Another improvement is the search function, which has been moved to the top, becoming a prominent starting point for VPN connection. After reviewing how NordVPN users interact with the app, we’ve decided to make search the primary way to explore and select connections. In addition, the majority of our users noted that the previous country list was too long to be convenient and occupied a lot of screen space, reinforcing the idea to provide a new search option that provides a clear interface, organized server groups, and extra space.
The new search brings all connection options together in one place — whether you’re looking for a specific location, a server type, or a Meshnet device. All you need to do is click the search field or the “All locations” button to open the full list of countries and servers, and then narrow down your options by switching between categories.
If you prefer connecting to specific location servers (for example, United Kingdom #1442), the option remains — you can access any available server simply by typing its number in the search bar.
Online protection made visible
The latest NordVPN version now lets you gain more useful insights with our updated statistics section. Along with connection statistics that show how long your connection has stayed secure, we’re now also introducing daily averages and week-to-week comparisons. These changes should help you spot patterns, compare trends, and keep your finger on the pulse of your online safety habits.
And that’s not all — in the Threat Protection ProTM section, you can review how many ads, trackers, and malicious or scam websites have been blocked as you’ve browsed. We also provide statistics on how many malicious downloads Threat Protection ProTM removed before they could harm your device.
“Products” — an improved security ecosystem
Finally, we’ve made some improvements to the home tab to give you quick access to the status of features such as Meshnet and Dark Web Monitor. Now, for a full overview of your security suite, navigate to the “Products” tab. There, you’ll be able to manage all the security features you’re already using and explore other options you can set up as part of your subscription. It’s also a more convenient way to discover services from the wider Nord Security family, like password management, identity protection and digital footprint removal.
Online security starts with a click.
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