The Independent’s journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?

Download NordVPN: How to install NordVPN on Windows, Mac, iOS and Android

Verified by Amy Reeves

NordVPN, our pick for the current best VPN (virtual private network) provider, has consistently earned acclaim for its robust security features, which have been verified through independent audits. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of downloading and setting up NordVPN on your Windows, Mac, iOS or Android devices.

NordVPN owns and manages over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, providing an array of privacy-focused services tailored to user needs. Beyond safeguarding your online activities, NordVPN offers additional security improvements such as double encryption, a kill switch, dark web scans and multi-factor authentication. In addition, with the Meshnet feature, users can establish a secure private network that connects devices worldwide. 

Due to the dependable no-log policy, advanced security and extensive innovative features, NordVPN has become a favoured choice for many users. If you’ve decided to take advantage of the comprehensive services offered to improve cybersecurity, keep reading to learn the steps to install the NordVPN app on your desktop and mobile devices.

How to download and install NordVPN for Windows

This section will walk you through downloading and installing NordVPN on Windows. NordVPN can be easily set-up on Windows 7 and above. Here are the steps you need to take.

  1. Your journey to secure browsing begins with visiting the official NordVPN website, identifying the version specifically designed for Windows and downloading the application on your desktop or laptop. 
  2. If you don’t have an account yet, now is a great time to buy NordVPN.
  3. Next, locate and click the “Download App” button at the top of the page. This action will start the downloading process of NordVPN’s Windows application.
  4. The next step is to begin the installation process. After downloading the NordVPN setup file, click “NordVPNSetup.exe” in the download bar at the bottom of your screen to launch the NordVPN installer.
  5. Alternatively, navigate to your PC’s “Download” folder, find “NordVPNSetup.exe” and double-click it.
  6. A prompt will appear on your screen, requesting permission for NordVPN to make changes to your device. Click “Yes” to continue with the installation process. You’ll then be asked to select the location on your system where you’d like NordVPN to be installed; make your choice and click “Next.”

  7. After you’ve confirmed the install directory, a screen message will indicate that NordVPN is ready for installation. Click the “Install” button to initiate the process.

  8. Once the installation is completed, a new screen will confirm the successful installation of the NordVPN application. Click the “Finish” button. The NordVPN app will automatically open, enabling you to start your secure internet browsing journey.

How to set up NordVPN for Windows

After successfully installing the NordVPN application, it’s time to set it up for optimal functionality on your Windows device. Here are the essential steps:

  1. Upon launching the NordVPN application for the first time, a screen will prompt you to log in to your account.

  2. Click the “Log in” button and enter your email address and password in the fields. Upon successful login, a new window will invite you to open the NordVPN app.
  3. Click “Open NordVPN”, and you’ll gain access to the app’s features.
  4. Upon logging in, you’ll encounter a screen directing you to set up your VPN.

  5. Here, you can tailor your experience by selecting options to auto-connect to ethernet, mobile or wifi networks. You can also:
    • Enable quick connection on app launch
    • Turn the kill switch on or off
    • Turn threat protection on or off
      Moreover, you can switch to dark mode, which displays light text on a dark background for a more comfortable viewing experience. Once you’ve adjusted the settings, click “Next”.
  6. You’ll see the main NordVPN user interface. The app will automatically connect you to the optimal server.

    However, if you want to connect to a server in a specific country, you can choose the exact location among the available server options there. You can select using the map in the middle of the app. Look for the country you’re interested in and click the corresponding blue pin to establish a connection.

How to download and install NordVPN for Mac

NordVPN is rated one of the best VPNs for Macs; NordVPN apps require macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later. Now, let’s go through the steps required to download and install NordVPN on Mac. 

  1. Begin the process by downloading the NordVPN application specifically designed for macOS. Go to the official NordVPN website and click the “Download App” button. You can create an account before downloading the app or afterwards.

  2. Once the download is complete, navigate to your “Downloads” folder and locate the file named “NordVPN.pkg.”

  3. During the installation process, a request will appear for installing a component called “Helper.” This component is vital for the establishment of secure VPN tunnels. To provide permission, enter your Mac’s password and click “OK.” Alternatively, you can confirm with a fingerprint, if this option is available on your device.
  4. An “Install” window will appear, guiding you through the remaining steps of the installation process. Select “Continue” to proceed.
  5. Next, click “Install” to complete the process.

  6. After the installation is completed, a message will pop up confirming that the NordVPN app was successfully installed on your Mac.
  7. You can close the window and start using NordVPN to browse the internet safely.

How to set up NordVPN for Mac

Setting up NordVPN on your Mac for the first time may seem daunting, but it’s a simple process. Here are the steps to guide you:

  1. Navigate to your Launchpad and open the NordVPN application.

  2. If you already have a NordVPN account, click “Log In,” located in the top-right corner of the screen, then enter your email address and password. If you’re a new user, click “Sign Up,” also found in the top-right corner of the screen.
  3. During the login process, you’ll be redirected to your Nord Account.
  4. Input your registered email address and password to log in to your account.
  5. After successfully logging in, you’ll notice a notification bar prompting you to open the NordVPN app.
  6. After logging in, you’ll see the main NordVPN application window. This is where you can control your VPN settings and connections.
  7. If you’re in a hurry and don’t want to look for a server to connect to, select the “Quick Connect” button in the top-right corner of the application. This will automatically connect you to a server recommended by NordVPN’s smart algorithm.

  8. The “Map” tab serves as the central hub of the NordVPN application. Here, you can visually locate and connect to NordVPN servers globally.
  9. Click the “Search” field in the top-left corner to connect to a specific server.
  10. Here, you can enter a country to find and connect to a server that meets your needs.

How to download and install NordVPN for iOS

  1. To install Nord VPN for iPhone, start the App Store and search for NordVPN.
  2. You should be aware that, if you’re located in a country with VPN restrictions, NordVPN will probably not appear in the App Store. In this case, follow the instructions for creating an Apple ID and downloading the application for iPhone and iPad from such regions.
  3. Getting the application is straightforward; you only need to select the “Download” button to begin installing the app on your device.

  4.  After the download is completed, select the “Open” button to launch the app.
  5. If you already have a NordVPN account, you can skip these steps and proceed by tapping “Log in” at the bottom of your screen.
  6. You’ll be prompted to register if you haven’t created a NordVPN account yet. NordVPN offers various sign-up methods, letting you register with your email, Google account or Apple account. Then, you’ll be directed back to the NordVPN app to select your preferred plan.
  7. To finalise your registration, you have to agree with the privacy statement that will appear.
  8. Having completed all the steps above, you’ve launched NordVPN on your iPhone or iPad.

How to set up NordVPN for iOS

  1. After you’ve logged in and launched the NordVPN app, you can tap “Quick Connect” to automatically connect to the most suitable server. Using this button is the fastest way to start browsing safely.
  2. When you connect to a NordVPN server for the first time, you’ll see a standard warning message asking for your permission to add VPN configurations. These are required to enable NordVPN operation.
  3. Tap “Allow” to complete your connection process.
  4. Note that if you’ve activated Touch ID, the app will prompt you to confirm the VPN configuration permission with your fingerprint.
  5. Now, you’re connected and can see your selected location in the status bar just above the map.
  6. To switch servers, selecting a country and tapping “Quick Connect” will automatically connect your device to the best server in the selected country.
  7. To see all available countries, swipe up from the app map screen. Select a city in a given country by tapping the three dots on the right of the country’s name.
  8. Select a city from the list showing the NordVPN server distribution in available cities.
  9. To view your favourites or speciality servers or search for a particular server by its number, ensure you haven’t chosen a country and swipe up from the lower edge of the app screen.

  10. To view and modify your profile information and settings, tap the profile icon in the lower-right corner of the map screen. Here, you can see your subscription details, settings and security dashboard. You can enable the Dark Web Monitor feature designed to scan the internet, detect any leaks of your credentials linked to your NordVPN account and notify you if your credentials are found on underground websites. You can also enable multi-factor authentication to safeguard your account accessibility by introducing an additional verification stage. Typically, the app will require inserting a code produced by a dedicated app. Enabling the Threat Protection Lite feature will automatically block web trackers, malicious links and ads even without an active VPN connection. To further customise your app, you can manage the settings in the upper-right corner of the screen.

How to download and install NordVPN for Android

NordVPN has a secure VPN app for Andriod devices 7.0 to 13.0. Getting NordVPN for Android devices is straightforward and can be accomplished with the following steps:

  1. Begin by opening the Google Play Store on your Android device and using the search bar to look for “NordVPN.”
  2. Once you locate the NordVPN app in the search results, click the “Install” button. The app will then be downloaded and automatically installed on your device.

  3. After installing, locate the NordVPN app on your device and open it. You’ll see a screen asking you to sign up for a new account or log in to your existing one.
  4. Select the “Log In” option if you already have an account. You’ll then be redirected to your default browser and prompted to enter your NordVPN account credentials.
  5. Once you’ve logged in, the NordVPN app will automatically reopen, and you’re now ready to start using NordVPN.

How to set up NordVPN for Android

After installing the NordVPN app on your Android device, setting it up is easy and intuitive. There are several ways you can accomplish this.

  1. If you’re looking for a fast and seamless connection, you may opt for the “Quick Connect” feature. NordVPN will automatically link you to the optimal server available.
  2. If you have a specific country in mind, you can browse through the map to select a server in your preferred location. The app offers a search bar to manually find and connect to a specific server for even more precision.

What other devices does NordVPN support?

NordVPN can be installed on all connected devices, ensuring privacy and security without compromising speed and convenience. Here’s a list of the supported devices:

Router

  • EdgeRouter and Ubiquiti
  • GL.iNet
  • Netduma
  • Netgear
  • MikroTik
  • Peplink/Pepwave

Smart TV

  • Apple TV
  • Google Chromecast
  • Roku
  • Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick

Gaming consoles

  • Xbox (Series X, S, One and 360)
  • PlayStation (PS3, PS4, and PS5)
  • Nintendo Switch

Devices

  • Amazon Fire Tablet
  • Chromebook
  • Raspberry Pi
Round up of today’s best VPN deals
NordVPN 2 year £2.49 /Month
£2.49 /Month
Surfshark 24 month £1.69 /Month
£1.69 /Month
ExpressVPN 12 month £6.80 /Month
£6.80 /Month
CyberGhost 2 year £1.92 /Month
£1.92 /Month
Proton 2 year £3.85 /Month
£3.85 /Month
PIA 2 year £1.69 /Month
£1.69 /Month
Atlas 2 year £1.34 /Month
£1.34 /Month
PrivadoVPN 2 year £1.48 /Month
£1.48 /Month
Windscribe 12 month £4.54 /Month
£4.54 /Month
IPVanish 2 year £1.58 /Month
£1.58 /Month

Mariana Krasteva

Writer/VPN tester

Mariana is an experienced technology writer specialising in web and internet technology. She writes about cyber security, including VPNs; web development; and software engineering. She has been writing since 2006 and held a position of English lecturer at Technical University of Varna in Bulgaria until 2022, working in a variety of educational fields.

For the Independent Advisor, Mariana writes about the usefulness of VPNs and how people can protect themselves and their data online, as well as contributing heavily to the testing process. 

Amy Reeves

Editor

Amy is a seasoned writer and editor with a special interest in home design, sustainable technology and green building methods.

She has interviewed hundreds of self-builders, extenders and renovators about their journeys towards individual, well-considered homes, as well as architects and industry experts during her five years working as Assistant Editor at Homebuilding & Renovating, part of Future plc.

Amy’s work covers topics ranging from home, interior and garden design to DIY step-by-steps, planning permission and build costs, and has been published in Period Living, Real Homes, and 25 Beautiful Homes, Homes and Gardens.

Now an Editor at the Independent Advisor, Amy manages homes-related content for the site, including solar panels, combi boilers, and windows.

Her passion for saving tired and inefficient homes also extends to her own life; Amy completed a renovation of a mid-century house in 2022 and is about to embark on an energy-efficient overhaul of a 1800s cottage in Somerset.