How do I make my NordVPN faster?

• 22.05.2025
• Blog
• Ethan Martinez
• 0

Using NordVPN is awesome. It keeps your browsing safe and your info private. But sometimes… it feels sloooow. Don’t worry! You’re not alone. And we’ve got some simple tips to speed things up.

Why is my VPN slow?

Good question. A VPN works by making a detour. Your data travels farther and goes through extra steps to stay secure. That can slow things down.

But the good news? There are quick ways to make NordVPN faster!

1. Choose a faster server

This is the easiest fix. Some servers are busier than others. Just like traffic, some roads move fast and some don’t.

• Use the “Quick Connect” feature — it picks the best server automatically.
• Or choose a server near your location. Closer = faster.
• Try different countries. Some have loads of fast servers (hello Netherlands!).

2. Switch the VPN protocol

VPN what-now? Protocols are just the rules your VPN follows to send data. NordVPN offers a few types:

• NordLynx – this one is 🔥. It’s fast AND secure.
• OpenVPN UDP – also pretty speedy.
• OpenVPN TCP – more stable but slower.

How to change it?

Go to the settings in the NordVPN app → find “VPN Protocol” → pick NordLynx.

3. Turn off CyberSec (if you need to)

NordVPN has a cool feature called CyberSec. It blocks ads and trackers. But sometimes, it can slow things down just a bit.

If speed is your top priority:

• Go to settings
• Find “CyberSec”
• Switch it off temporarily

Don’t worry — your connection is still safe!

4. Restart your router

It sounds silly, but it works. Routers get tired too! Give yours a quick nap (aka a reboot).

Also, make sure:

• You’re not too far from the router
• Too many devices aren’t clogging the Wi-Fi

5. Use a wired connection

Wi-Fi is magical. But it’s not always the fastest. Plug in an Ethernet cable and see the boost!

Great for streaming, gaming, or epic downloads.

6. Update the NordVPN app

Still using an old version of the app? That could be the problem.

• Go to your app store (or NordVPN site)
• Download the latest version
• Enjoy fresher, faster features

New updates often fix speed bugs. Easy win!

7. Close background apps

Are apps secretly eating up your internet?

Make sure stuff like cloud syncing, streaming services, or downloads aren’t running while using NordVPN.

• On Windows, check Task Manager
• On Mac, use Activity Monitor

The fewer the apps, the faster the VPN.

8. Change your DNS (if needed)

This one’s for power users. DNS = the address book of the internet.

Sometimes DNS servers can slow things down. Try using faster ones like:

• Google DNS (8.8.8.8)
• Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1)

You can change this in network settings. If you’re not super techy, maybe skip this one — or Google a walkthrough!

9. Avoid double VPN (unless you really need it)

NordVPN offers Double VPN. It’s like wearing two coats of armor. Super secure — but it can slow things down.

Unless you’re doing something that needs extreme privacy, turn this off for better speed.

Wrap-up

There you have it! Nine easy ways to boost your NordVPN speed:

• Pick a faster server
• Use NordLynx
• Restart your stuff
• Cut the clutter

Try one. Try all. Mix and match. You’ll be browsing safe and speedy in no time!

Stay safe. Surf fast. Happy VPNing!