Enjoy security on a private network with Meshnet

Create a private network with Meshnet for free
Host your own VPN server
Prevent open ports on your network

What is a private network?

A laptop with NordVPN’s Meshnet private network turned on

A private network is a network of computers using various technologies to limit the network access to authorized users only. It also enables access control and implementing security measures to verify the identity of users attempting to access the network.

With Meshnet, you can create a private network and ensure the security and privacy of the data transmitted across the network as well as protect the devices on it.

Meshnet private network vs VPN: What’s the difference?

The main difference between private networks created by Meshnet and virtual private networks (VPNs) like NordVPN is their intended purpose.

In a Meshnet private network, multiple devices are securely connected directly to one another, letting users share files and play LAN games together. A VPN, on the other hand, creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server to shield your online activities from snoops and hackers.

Why creating a private network with Meshnet is worth it

Do more on your private network. Here are just a few benefits of using a private network.

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Your keys, your control

You hold the keys to your network and can control what devices can join it.

Keep your network secure

Modern security algorithms will help keep your private network and all connected devices secure.

Fewer open ports

Your private network allows secure access remotely without you needing to open your network ports manually.

Create your own VPN server

Use devices as VPN servers. Choose any macOS, Windows, or Linux device on your network and reroute all traffic through it.

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What can you do with the Meshnet private network?

Meshnet can improve your online gaming experience, protect your digital privacy, and keep your home devices secure.

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Safely play LAN games with your friends
Tired of interruptions while gaming online? Play LAN matches with Meshnet for improved stability and security.
Prevent unauthorized access. Meshnet secures your network and prevents unauthorized access.
Create your DNS server
Set up a DNS server easily — Meshnet helps you set it up without hassle.
Keep your browsing experience private. Your DNS server prevents other services from knowing the websites you visit.
Boost security. Because you control your private DNS server, it protects your device from malicious entries by third parties.
Reroute traffic through any device
Reroute traffic through any of your devices as if it were your own VPN server.
Connect to your home network and control your IoT devices from anywhere in the world.

How to set up a private network with Meshnet

Download Meshnet

Meshnet is free even without a NordVPN subscription.

Turn on Meshnet on your devices

Devices belonging to your account will show up automatically.

Invite other people

Add the emails of your friends and family (up to 50 external devices).

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The benefits of having your own private network

Private network has many benefits, but you can do so much more with Meshnet.

Gaming

Play with friends over LAN — even if they’re on the other side of the globe. Meshnet lets you create secure private networks for intense gaming sessions.

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File sharing

Skip the cloud and send files directly between your devices. Enjoy better security and avoid nosy cloud services.

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Joint projects

Collaborate on confidential tasks with enhanced privacy and security. Meshnet lets teams work seamlessly over their own secure private network.

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Download Meshnet for your device

Meshnet is available on the following operating systems.

Windows

macOS

Linux

Android

iOS

Frequently asked questions

What is an example of a private network?

Private networks can be home, corporate, or intranet. For example, a home network is your home Wi-Fi you can control by changing your router settings. All your Wi-Fi-capable devices connect to the internet and communicate with each other through your home network.

A corporate network is a more elaborate version of a home network. But to facilitate hundreds of employee devices and prevent third-party device access, it goes far beyond than a secure network password. Similarly, an intranet is a private network used to share information and access company resources securely.

While Meshnet is also a private network, it differs from a home or corporate network. To put it simply, Meshnet is a network of private networks you can use to reroute traffic, connect to devices remotely, and share files.

What devices can a Meshnet private network connect to?

With Meshnet, you can connect up to 10 internal and 50 external devices — computers, tablets, smartphones, you name it. Meshnet supports macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux, so all you need to do is install NordVPN, enable Meshnet, and invite your family to the network.

Do I need a VPN on a Meshnet private network?

Since both a VPN and Meshnet can be called “private networks,” understanding what each tool does may be confusing. Put simply, a VPN (virtual private network) is a global network of servers you can connect to, use to keep your browsing private, avoid censorship, and in the case of NordVPN, help protect your devices from malware.

Meshnet is a network of your devices and the devices you trust, not servers. You can control which devices belong to your network as well as whether you want to use any of them to reroute network traffic, share files, or access devices remotely. With Meshnet, you’re connected to all network devices simultaneously, while you use a VPN to connect to one server at a time.

Meshnet does not replace a VPN. in 2023, a VPN is still a valuable tool to help you protect your privacy online.