How to use a VPN

How to use a VPN in 4 simple steps

A VPN encrypts your online traffic so that malicious actors cannot see and intercept it while you surf the web. To use a VPN on your device, all you need to do is follow these four simple steps.

1. Choose a VPN provider and get a subscription

The first step before using a VPN is to find a reliable provider and get its service subscription. While it may not spark joy, the majority (if not all) trusted VPN services are subscription-based. 

You might also find some options that provide free VPN services, however, you should be extremely careful with those. Free VPN providers might collect and sell your personal data, be ridden with ads, or, in the worst case scenario, contain malware. 

That’s why choosing a reliable paid service is your best bet. Besides, products like NordVPN often offer exclusive discounts to save you some money while providing all the benefits of a VPN and then some.

2. Download a VPN app

Once you’ve done your research and picked your VPN provider, select your subscription, download the app, and install a VPN.

3. Set up the VPN

Leading VPN providers like NordVPN offer easy VPN apps that you don’t need extensive technological know-how to use. Simply install a VPN, enter your credentials, and you’re all set.

You can also go into the VPN settings to turn additional features on or off, like the Kill Switch and switch protocols.

Head to our blog post on how to set up a VPN for further guidance.

4. Connect to a VPN server

With NordVPN, you can click the “Quick connect” button, and the app will find the best server for you. You can also easily change the VPN location by clicking on a country pin to connect to that particular country or by scrolling down the server list and picking the one you want to connect to.

Check out our brief video on how to use a VPN below.

VPN use on different platforms

You can use the NordVPN app on Windows, macOS, Linux, iPhone, and Android. Here’s how to download, install, and start using NordVPN on each of these platforms.

Use a VPN on Windows

1. 1.Download and install a VPN for Windows PC. Once you’ve signed into your account, click “Quick connect” and you will be connected to the fastest server available. You can also select a server from the list of countries on the left menu or tap it on the map.
2. 2.After a few moments, the status will change to “Connected” with the location of the server and an IP address.
3. 3.A pop-up on Windows should also confirm that you have connected successfully.

Use a VPN on macOS

1. 1.You can download the NordVPN app for Mac from our site or from the App Store. Once downloaded, open the app and set up your account.
2. 2.The “Quick connect” button is located in the upper right corner of the app.
3. 3.A pop-up will confirm that you have connected to the VPN server.

Use a VPN on Linux

1. 1.Download the NordVPN Snap package and set up your account. You can also install the VPN by using the Linux Terminal.
2. 2.Use the “nordvpn connect” command to quickly connect to the NordVPN server or “nordvpn connect <country_code server_number>” to connect to a specific country server.
3. 3.You will find the confirmation of connection in your Terminal window.

Use a VPN on Android

1. 1.Android users can download NordVPN directly from the Play Store or download an .apk file from our Android page.
2. 2.You can tap “Quick connect” in the app or scroll down to select a server from the list of countries.

Use a VPN on iOS

1. 1.If you’re using an iPhone or iPad, head to the App Store or download the NordVPN iOS app from the NordVPN website.
2. 2.Once connected, the country’s pin will turn green, a “Connected to (country)” message will appear, and a VPN icon will show up at the top of your screen.

Use a VPN on browser extensions

NordVPN also comes as a browser extension for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. Keep in mind that the extension is different from the app — it protects only your browser’s traffic but not your computer’s traffic the way the NordVPN app does. Using a VPN extension will change your browser’s IP address, but at the same time, you will be able to use your real IP for other connections. To use a VPN on your browser:

1. 1.Add the extension to your browser of choice and sign in.
2. 2.Click “Quick connect” or choose a desired country to set up your VPN connection.

How to use a VPN on multiple devices

To use NordVPN on multiple devices, all you need to do is download the NordVPN app on the devices you want to use it on and sign in to your account. You can connect up to ten devices with one NordVPN account. 

While the most popular operating systems have dedicated NordVPN apps, some gadgets might need manual configuration. However, our customer support is ready to offer assistance and answer all VPN-related questions 24/7

It’s possible that some of NordVPN’s features might vary across different platforms. However, the basic principles of the VPN service remain the same — giving users high-speed security and enhanced privacy. The service supports eight different platforms, providing a safer internet connection to users regardless of whether they use it on their computer, smartphone, console, or smart TV. 

Why should you use a VPN?

Internet service provider (ISP) monitoring, unsafe public Wi-Fi, and the constant threat of malware infections are just a few reasons why you should use a VPN. Among many ways to use a VPN, NordVPN can help you improve online safety when abroad, mitigate the risk of accidentally downloading malware or visiting dangerous websites, and even get cheaper deals. 

Securely using public Wi-Fi

Connecting to an unprotected public Wi-Fi is the cybersecurity equivalent of jumping into the Amazon River without properly scouting the surrounding area. Malicious actors may be quietly lurking like predators in the public Wi-Fi servers, just waiting for someone to check their social media or send a WhatsApp message. Once they intercept your online traffic, hackers can access your online accounts, launch phishing attacks, or sell your data to the highest bidder.

A VPN encrypts your web traffic, making it unreadable to threat actors, regardless of whether you’re using a public Wi-Fi or any other connection method. It’s a simple yet effective way to safeguard yourself when browsing the internet.

PRO TIP: Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi. It doesn’t matter if you’re just checking your Facebook, buying a movie on Amazon, or using Google Search — your traffic could be intercepted.

Protecting your identity

Your device’s IP address is how the internet recognizes and connects you to information (like a website you’re trying to visit). But your IP address can also be used to find out who you are, down to the town or city you live in. And it’s only the tip of the iceberg, compared to what a hacker could do with your IP address. Using NordVPN can help you mask your IP address to give you more privacy online and safeguard against malicious actors.

Getting the best deals when shopping online

Some online shops may adjust their pricing depending on your virtual location (IP address). Using a virtual private network allows you to hop between the servers, potentially resulting in better shopping deals. It will not only save you money but can also help to protect your data while you shop. So if you’re still wondering whether you need a VPN, you now have at least three reasons to consider getting it.

Where to use a VPN

You can use NordVPN on multiple operating systems and devices. But what exactly is the scope of this VPN’s availability on gadgets? Here’s a closer look at where you can use a VPN.

Personal devices

Gadgets such as laptops, desktops, tablets, mobile phones, and even smartwatches are all VPN-friendly devices. Though it’s important to note that smartwatches don’t have a VPN app (unlike computers and mobile devices). However, you can set up a VPN connection on your router and connect your smartwatch to it, ensuring encrypted traffic.

Having a VPN on your personal device is particularly handy when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. With VPN encryption, you don’t have to worry about someone snooping out your sensitive information, such as login credentials, company files, or even fitness information (for smartwatch users).

Home networking

Your household network isn’t limited to your personal devices only. It could also include gadgets such as the Wi-Fi router, mesh Wi-Fi system devices, and network-attached storage (NAS). Installing a VPN on your Wi-Fi router and other home network devices will limit ISP tracking, improve remote access security, and encrypt traffic all over the network, including the gadgets that connect to them (such as phones, laptops, and smart TVs).

To install NordVPN on your home network devices, you will need to check their compatibility and get OpenVPN configuration files. Some routers may have a dedicated VPN client section, allowing you to set up NordVPN directly.

PRO TIP: Before trying to install a VPN on your router, make sure that it supports VPN connection. Check out the list of NordVPN-compatible devices to know whether your device can use a VPN.

Streaming devices

Smart TVs, streaming sticks, and streaming boxes are also among the devices that may support NordVPN. With a VPN installed, you can prevent your ISP from tracking your online activities on your smart TV or stream paid home content on your device while traveling and using public Wi-Fi. That makes it the perfect VPN for travel, video streaming, and browsing online.

Gaming consoles

Having a VPN on your gaming console may sound unnecessary, but in reality, the VPN-equipped PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch is likely to improve your gaming experience. A VPN for gaming might potentially help you avoid bandwidth throttling (potentially improving your connection speed) and safeguard against distributed-denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.

PRO TIP: To enable VPN on your console, install VPN on your internet router, and then connect to it using Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable.

IoT devices

If you have smart home hubs, smart speakers, smart cameras, or other IoT devices (such as smart refrigerators, kettles, or air fryers), you can also safeguard them with a VPN. IoT appliances may often come with weak built-in security, making them susceptible to hacking. A VPN on your router encrypts all IoT traffic, protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access. Like consoles, IoT devices can be VPN-safeguarded by connecting them to the router with NordVPN installed on it.

How to choose a VPN

Choosing a VPN might put you in a bit of a pickle, especially with plenty of options to choose from. If you’re wondering how to choose a VPN provider that’s best for you, we recommend listing the benefits you’d want from your VPN service. And to make it even easier, here’s our list of things you should consider when choosing a VPN:

• Strong encryption. Whether online or in the real world, safety is always a number one priority. With that in mind, picking a service that has strong encryption protocols should be one of the top criteria when choosing a VPN.
• Speed. No one likes slow internet. And the same goes for VPN, too. When choosing a preferred service, it’s good to look into VPN’s connectivity speeds. And remember, using a VPN may slow down your internet connection speed a little bit, but with the right provider, you shouldn’t feel any significant difference.
• Number of servers. Depending on your preference, this feature might be secondary compared to the other VPN benefits. However, a large number of servers means more virtual locations to choose from and potentially, a lower chance of lag during peak usage hours.
• Compatibility across platforms. If you plan to use a VPN on multiple devices, you’ll want a VPN that excels in this feature. The more devices you can connect to a VPN, the safer you’ll feel when browsing the internet, watching smart TV, or playing your favorite online games.
• Pricing. Naturally, pricing is one of the most important factors when choosing a VPN. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to look for VPN providers that offer flexible pricing options and a money-back guarantee. Services like NordVPN offer both, along with additional benefits, such as robust security features and a user-friendly interface.

These criteria should help you find the best VPN provider and avoid the most common mistakes when choosing a VPN service.

Mistakes to avoid when using a VPN

While getting a VPN is easy, it’s still possible to put yourself at risk accidentally, especially when setting up the VPN. Here are the most common mistakes that users make when using a VPN:

• Relying on free VPN’s security. While it may be tempting to use a free VPN, these services often have limited encryption, slower speeds, and may log or sell user data to third parties. Additionally, free VPNs typically lack robust security features (found in paid VPNs) and therefore can put your private data at risk.
• Not enabling Kill Switch. NordVPN users should always enable its Kill Switch feature, which automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops. That prevents your data from being exposed to hackers, ISPs, or malicious websites. Without it, sensitive information can leak unintentionally.
• Using VPN only on one device. If you use a VPN only on one device, others (such as your phone, smart TV, or console) remain vulnerable to cyber threats and tracking. If your VPN provider allows access for multiple devices, use that feature to the maximum.
• Connecting to a VPN only when needed. Turning on your VPN only for specific activities (such as accessing your bank account) might leave you exposed during regular browsing, email use, or other online activities. Therefore, you shouldn’t turn off or pause your VPN, even if you’re just casually surfing the web.
• Logging into accounts without a VPN. Logging into sensitive accounts (for example, email, bank account, or work platforms) without a VPN might expose your credentials, particularly if you’re using unsecured networks. That makes your information vulnerable to interception or phishing.
• Relying only on VPN’s security. While VPNs are great for encrypting your traffic, they aren’t a cure for all cybersecurity threats. While some VPNs (such as NordVPN) can limit your exposure to malware or phishing attacks, a VPN will not protect you from weak passwords or computer viruses. Using additional tools such as an antivirus or a password manager (like NordPass) can help you feel even safer when browsing online.

VPN features for better usability

Some VPNs like NordVPN come packed with robust security and privacy features that’ll leave you wondering why you didn’t use a VPN before. From specific server locations and types to NordVPN’s exclusive Threat Protection Pro™, here are some of the best features the VPN has to offer.

VPN server locations

NordVPN offers more than 7,700 VPN servers covering 118 countries. Depending on your needs, you can choose a VPN server in a specific location or connect to the fastest one and change your IP address in a snap, from the UK to Canada and Australia.

Kill Switch

If something happens to your VPN connection, Kill Switch cuts you off from the internet. This guarantees that no unencrypted traffic will leave your device. You can also select the apps that you want to stop when your VPN disconnects.

Threat Protection Pro

The Threat Protection Pro™ is an exclusive NordVPN feature that blocks websites known for malware and phishing scams. Once you download the app and sign up for a plan with this feature included, just tick the check mark in the “Settings” panel to turn it on. It will protect you from malware and help with ad blocking.

Meshnet

With NordVPN’s Meshnet feature, you can connect multiple devices using encrypted tunnels. This allows you to securely share files between laptops, phones, servers, and other hardware. You can connect your own devices, as well as those of friends, family, and coworkers.

Specialized servers

NordVPN also offers specialty servers designed for individual needs. For extra security, tap on the Double VPN feature: it redirects your traffic through two servers instead of one for double encryption.

Additionally, you can use NordVPN’s obfuscated servers. These can prevent ISPs from knowing whether you’re actually using a VPN or not. It takes only one click to connect to the fastest specialty server or to choose a server from a certain location and start using a VPN.

Remember that free VPNs don’t offer the same features, services, and quality standards as a premium service like NordVPN. Companies that don’t charge up front are more likely to log and sell your data to make a profit, and won’t provide the levels of security and privacy you need.