Setting up NordVPN is quick and simple, whether you want to protect your laptop, phone, or your entire home network through a router. This guide walks you through the basics, includes a step-by-step video tutorial, and offers pro tips to optimise your VPN settings for speed and security. For a full service overview, see our NordVPN review.
Step 1: Install NordVPN on Your Device
1. Visit the
NordVPN downloads page
and choose your platform (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux).
2. Download the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.
3. Log in with your NordVPN account details.
4. Click “Quick Connect” to automatically join the fastest available server.
Step 2: Set Up NordVPN on Your Router
Installing NordVPN on a router secures every device on your network—even smart TVs and consoles that don’t support VPN apps. Not all routers allow VPN configuration, but many popular models from ASUS, Netgear, Linksys, and TP-Link do.
- Log into your router’s admin panel (usually
192.168.1.1). - Find the VPN or WAN settings page.
- Select “Manual / OpenVPN” setup.
-
Download NordVPN’s router config files (
.ovpn) from your NordVPN account dashboard. - Upload the config file to your router and enter your NordVPN credentials.
- Save and apply. Your router will now tunnel all traffic through NordVPN.
For detailed router instructions, check NordVPN’s official router setup tutorials, as steps vary by model.
Step 3: Optimise Your NordVPN Settings
Once NordVPN is installed, adjust the following settings in the app for the best experience:
- Enable Threat Protection: Blocks ads, trackers, and known malware domains.
- Turn on Kill Switch: Prevents accidental data leaks if the VPN disconnects.
- Use NordLynx protocol: NordVPN’s WireGuard-based protocol offers the best mix of speed and security.
- Auto-connect on startup: Ensures you are always protected without having to remember.
- Customise server choice: Pick servers closer to your location for faster speeds, or specialty servers for torrenting or Double VPN.
FAQ: Setting Up NordVPN
Can I use NordVPN on unlimited devices?
You can install NordVPN on as many devices as you like, but you can only connect up to 10 simultaneously per subscription. A router install counts as one device but covers everything connected to your network.
What if my router doesn’t support VPN?
You can either buy a pre-configured VPN router from NordVPN’s partners or run the NordVPN app individually on each device.
Will using NordVPN slow down my internet?
Any VPN adds some overhead, but NordVPN is among the fastest available. Use the NordLynx protocol and connect to nearby servers to minimise speed loss.
