What is a dedicated VPN server?
A dedicated VPN server is a server assigned exclusively to a single user.
Unlike a standard VPN server, which shares its resources and IP addresses among many users, a dedicated server gives you your own private VPN infrastructure. You get a dedicated static IP address, dedicated resources, and port forwarding capability — features that help you access devices on your home network and host services without exposing your home network’s IP address.
With NordVPN’s dedicated server, you get:
- A static IP address reserved exclusively for you
- Dedicated server resources, including 1 vCPU and 4 GB of RAM
- Up to 1 Gbps of dedicated bandwidth and a 4 TB monthly allowance
- Up to 10 simultaneous device connections
However, a dedicated VPN server is not a web hosting or cloud storage service. If you want to host files, media libraries, applications, or game servers, you’ll still need your own device or hardware to run them. The dedicated server simply provides a more controlled way to access those resources remotely.
When is a regular VPN server not enough?
Traditional VPN servers work well for everyday browsing and privacy. Their shared infrastructure helps maximize privacy while offering a simple and convenient experience for most users.
However, the very features that make shared VPN servers so effective and convenient can also create limitations in certain situations.Because standard VPN servers prioritize privacy and simplicity, they aren’t designed for use cases that require a static IP address or inbound connections. For example, if you want to access devices on your home network or host services that other people can reach, a standard VPN connection may not meet those needs.
A dedicated VPN server gives you the same encrypted VPN connection but also provides a static IP address, dedicated resources, and port forwarding capabilities.
A dedicated server vs. a dedicated IP
Despite their similar names, dedicated servers and dedicated IPs offer different capabilities. Dedicated servers and dedicated IPs both offer a unique, static IP address, but the similarities end there.
A dedicated IP gives you an IP address reserved exclusively for your use. However, you still share the underlying VPN infrastructure and server resources with other users.
A dedicated server goes a step further by reserving dedicated VPN resources exclusively for you. In addition to a static IP address, you get dedicated resources, including CPU, RAM, and bandwidth reserved for your use, so you don’t have to compete with other users for performance.
If you simply need a static IP address for allowlisting work applications or avoiding repeated verification requests, a dedicated IP may be enough. However, if you need remote access, port forwarding, or dedicated resources for hosting services and devices, a dedicated server is likely the better choice.
What can you do with a dedicated VPN server?
A dedicated VPN server opens up many possibilities that shared VPN connections can’t always support:
- Access your home network remotely. Connect to devices and services on your home network while traveling, including NAS devices, media libraries, and desktop computers.
- Host game servers. Run multiplayer game servers for friends without exposing your home network’s IP address to everyone who joins.
- Manage IoT devices from anywhere. Access security cameras, control smart home devices, or interact with other IoT devices and connected systems while you’re away from home.
- Create your own digital command center. Use your dedicated server as a gateway to your personal tools, devices, and self-hosted services.
- Use a static IP address for allowlisting. Simplify access to work applications, business systems, or other services that require approved IP addresses.
How to get a dedicated VPN server with NordVPN
Getting started with a dedicated VPN server through NordVPN only takes a few steps:
- 1.Get a dedicated server. Purchase a NordVPN subscription and add a dedicated server to your plan. Existing NordVPN users can buy the dedicated server add-on directly through their Nord Account.
- 2.Choose your server location. Select the country and city for your dedicated server through your Nord Account. Dedicated servers are currently available in Boston (US), Manchester (UK), Frankfurt (Germany), and Paris (France).
- 3.Connect through the NordVPN app. Download NordVPN and connect to your dedicated server using the NordLynx protocol. The feature works across NordVPN apps (excluding browser extensions and tvOS) and supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections.
From there, you can configure port forwarding and start using your dedicated server to access devices on your home network, host services, or connect to your resources from anywhere.
Is a dedicated VPN server right for you?
A dedicated VPN server isn’t designed to replace a traditional VPN connection. Standard VPN servers already provide strong security for everyday internet use.
However, a dedicated VPN server serves a different purpose. It combines dedicated resources, a static IP address, and port forwarding capabilities to support use cases that shared VPN servers can’t accommodate.
You may benefit from a dedicated VPN server if you:
Need port forwarding for remote access
Run game servers or hosted services
Want a static IP address for allowlisting
Need access to home devices while traveling
Want dedicated VPN resources that no one else shares
If your primary goal is everyday browsing and online privacy, a standard VPN connection remains the better choice. It provides a simpler, more convenient way to protect your online activity. But if you need a static IP, greater control over your connection, or a way to access devices and services remotely, a dedicated VPN server can become a valuable addition to your setup.
More than just a VPN
A dedicated server expands what you can do with NordVPN, giving you greater control over how you connect to your devices and services remotely. But it’s only one part of a broader digital security toolkit.
NordVPN is an all-in-one digital security app¹ that combines privacy and cybersecurity features in a single solution. Beyond VPN protection, NordVPN’s next-gen antivirus also helps protect against phishing attempts, scams, malware, and unsafe websites. Instead of juggling multiple subscriptions and security tools, users can access the protections they need in one place and tailor them to their specific needs.
¹ “All-in-one” refers to the VPN, scam protection, phishing protection, tracker and ad blocking, and other features available within the NordVPN app, depending on your device and the plan you choose.
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