NordVPN ZDNET's key takeaways I tested the very popular NordVPN, and it checks all the VPN boxes of reliability, performance, and features.
The NordLynx protocol has fast and secure connections worldwide, and features like specialty servers, an antivirus (offline malware scanner for PCs), and a Dark Web Monitor are welcome.
There is no split tunneling feature on iOS, and it doesn't have the IKEv2/IPSec protocol on most (if not all) devices. View now at Nordvpn
You will come across NordVPN quite often when shopping around for the best VPN service. The VPN appears in almost every recommendation list, not by luck or chance, but because it's truly a top contender, and ZDNET's pick for the best VPN overall, as well as the best VPN for streaming and the best VPN for iPhones. That said, experiences will always vary. Some users prefer NordVPN's closest rival, ExpressVPN.
Also: The best free VPNs of 2025: Secure, safe, and fast VPNs
This review is solely to put NordVPN in the spotlight. If you want a sneak peek before committing financially to the service, we have all the details. I'll cover the experience on NordVPN connection speeds, server network, streaming/gaming/torrenting capabilities, protection and privacy, user-friendliness, and more.
I'll also review the pricing and let you in on which NordVPN deal plan has the best value proposal. (Read more about how we test and review VPNs here.)
Many server locations, but which one should you choose?
NordVPN has 6,400+ servers spread across 111 countries, slightly more than ExpressVPN or Surfshark. A good server distribution network means easy access to secure IP addresses for watching content anywhere or finding nearby servers with better connections (the shorter the distance to the server, the faster the speed).
Should you get stuck on which server to use, you can tap the Quick Connect button and the app will automatically select the fastest and most optimized server for your location.
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