Atlas VPN Review (Now Part of NordVPN)

Atlas VPN, a newcomer in the VPN industry since 2019, has quickly established itself as a reliable service with strong security and unblocking capabilities. Recently acquired by Nord Security, the team behind NordVPN, Atlas VPN is now set to benefit from the extensive experience and resources of a leading VPN provider. This strategic merger brings together NordVPN’s well-established infrastructure and security with Atlas VPN’s innovative features, offering users a enhanced, comprehensive, and safer VPN service.

In this review, we explore how this merger amplifies NordVPN’s offerings, providing a detailed overview of the combined strengths, features, and performance of these two VPN providers.

The NordVPN Server Network

NordVPN boasts one of the most extensive server networks in the VPN industry, with over 5,500 servers spread across 60 countries. This expansive network ensures that users can always find a fast and reliable server close to their location, minimizing latency and maximizing speed. With the acquisition of Atlas VPN, which added over 700 servers in 31 countries, NordVPN’s network has become even more robust and diverse.

Global Coverage

NordVPN’s server network is strategically distributed to provide comprehensive global coverage. The servers are located across Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia, with a presence in select locations in Africa and South America as well, which Atlas VPN didn’t have. This distribution allows users to connect to servers in various regions, enhancing access to geo-restricted content and ensuring reliable performance worldwide.

Server Types and Specializations

NordVPN offers a variety of specialized servers to cater to different user needs. These include:

• P2P Servers: Optimized for torrenting and other P2P activities, ensuring fast and secure file sharing.
• Double VPN Servers: Route your traffic through two VPN servers for extra security.
• Obfuscated Servers: Designed to bypass internet censorship in restrictive regions, such as China.
• Dedicated IP Servers: Provide a static IP address for users who need consistent IP access.

The integration of Atlas VPN’s infrastructure has further expanded this network, adding over 700 servers in 31 countries. This expansion enhances NordVPN’s capacity, particularly in regions where Atlas VPN had a significant presence, improving load balancing and overall performance.

Performance and Reliability

NordVPN’s extensive server network helps distribute the load, reducing server congestion and maintaining high-speed connections. This is particularly beneficial for activities that require a lot of bandwidth, such as streaming, gaming, and large file transfers. The merger with Atlas VPN will likely contribute to even better performance and reliability, thanks to the increased number of servers and improved infrastructure.

Streaming Capabilities with NordVPN

NordVPN excels in unblocking geo-restricted content on major streaming platforms. With specialized servers optimized for streaming, users can access services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, DAZN, and Disney+ seamlessly. These servers are regularly updated to maintain compatibility and provide high-speed connections, ensuring a buffer-free streaming experience.

The integration with Atlas VPN has enhanced NordVPN’s streaming capabilities, combining the strengths of both services. Users benefit from additional servers dedicated to streaming, reducing the likelihood of server congestion and maintaining high-quality performance. The combined resources ensure a broader range of streaming-optimized servers, particularly beneficial for accessing region-specific content.

NordVPN’s SmartPlay technology further enhances the streaming experience by automatically connecting users to the best server for streaming. This feature simplifies the process of bypassing geo-restrictions, allowing users to enjoy their favorite content without interruption. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to find and connect to these optimized servers, providing a smooth and efficient streaming experience.

Does NordVPN Support Torrenting?

NordVPN is highly regarded for its support of P2P activities, offering specialized servers that are optimized for secure and efficient torrenting. These dedicated P2P servers ensure that users can download and upload files at high speeds while maintaining their privacy and security. NordVPN’s network includes a significant number of these servers, strategically placed to provide optimal performance.

With the integration of Atlas VPN, NordVPN’s infrastructure has been further strengthened, enhancing the service’s overall capabilities for torrenting. Users can expect improved speed and reliability, particularly in regions where Atlas VPN had a strong presence. The combined network provides a broader selection of servers, reducing the risk of congestion and maintaining high-speed connections even during peak times.

NordVPN employs robust security measures to protect torrenting activities, including AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch that ensures your internet connection is severed if the VPN connection drops. These features ensure that your torrenting activities remain private and secure, protecting you from potential legal issues and cyber threats.

NordVPN Review of Speed and Performance

NordVPN is known for its high-speed performance, a crucial factor for any VPN service. The use of modern tunneling protocols like WireGuard significantly enhances connection speeds, providing a smooth and reliable internet experience. In various speed tests, NordVPN consistently shows minimal impact on download and upload speeds, even when connecting to distant servers.

The addition of Atlas VPN’s servers has further boosted NordVPN’s network, particularly in areas where additional infrastructure was needed. This expansion helps distribute the load more effectively, reducing server congestion and maintaining high-speed connections for all users. Whether you are streaming, gaming, or engaging in P2P activities, NordVPN delivers reliable performance with minimal latency.

NordVPN supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard. WireGuard, in particular, is praised for its speed and security, making it an excellent choice for bandwidth-intensive activities. The flexibility to choose between different protocols allows users to tailor their VPN experience to their specific needs, balancing speed and security as required.

Security of NordVPN

NordVPN is renowned for its robust security measures, ensuring that users’ data remains private and protected. The service employs AES-256 encryption, which is considered the gold standard in the industry. This level of encryption ensures that all data transmitted through the VPN is secure and virtually impenetrable to hackers and cybercriminals.

spliNordVPN supports several secure VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard. These protocols offer a perfect blend of security and performance, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their needs. WireGuard, in particular, is known for its high efficiency and strong security, providing fast connections without compromising on privacy.

Additional Security Features:

• Kill Switch: NordVPN includes a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops. This ensures that your data is never exposed, even momentarily.
• DNS Leak Protection: This feature prevents DNS leaks by ensuring that all DNS requests are routed through the VPN tunnel, keeping your browsing history private.
• CyberSec: NordVPN’s CyberSec feature blocks ads, malware, and other threats, providing an additional layer of security and a smoother browsing experience.

The integration of Atlas VPN’s resources has enhanced NordVPN’s security framework. Atlas VPN brought advanced security features such as SafeSwap, which continuously changes your IP address, making it even harder for anyone to track your online activities. The combined expertise of both services ensures that users receive state-of-the-art security.

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NordVPN and Privacy

Privacy is a cornerstone of NordVPN’s service. The company adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not track, store, or share any user activity. This policy has been independently audited to ensure malicious actors looking to monitor your connection are unsuccessful by preventing unwanted IP (IPv4 & IPv6), DNS, or WebRTC leaks. 

NordVPN is based in Panama, a country with favorable privacy laws that is not part of the Fourteen Eyes surveillance alliance. This strategic location ensures that NordVPN is not required to keep logs or share user data with governments, further protecting user privacy.

Privacy Features:

• Double VPN: This feature routes your traffic through two VPN servers, adding an extra layer of encryption and anonymity.
• Onion Over VPN: Combines the benefits of Tor with the security of a VPN, providing maximum privacy for users who require it.
• NoSpy Servers: These are specially designed servers that are managed exclusively by NordVPN, ensuring that no third parties have access to them. These servers are located in a secure data center in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, offering enhanced protection against surveillance.

The merger with Atlas VPN has strengthened NordVPN’s privacy measures. Atlas VPN’s strong privacy policies and features, such as data breach monitoring, have been integrated into NordVPN’s framework, ensuring comprehensive protection of user data.

NordVPN Plans and Pricing Structure

NordVPN offers a variety of subscription plans designed to fit different user needs and budgets. Users can choose between monthly, annual, and multi-year plans, with significant discounts offered for longer-term commitments. This flexible pricing structure ensures that users can find a plan that suits their requirements while providing access to all of NordVPN’s features and benefits.

Subscription Options:

• Monthly Plan: Priced around $11.95 per month, this plan is ideal for users who need VPN services for a short period or prefer not to commit long-term.
• Annual Plan: Costing approximately $59 per year (equivalent to $4.92 per month), the annual plan offers substantial savings compared to the monthly option.
• Two-Year Plan: This plan is priced at around $99, which breaks down to about $4.13 per month, providing an even better value for users who commit to a longer subscription.
• Three-Year Plan: At $125, this plan averages about $3.49 per month, offering the best value for long-term users.

Money-Back Guarantee: NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all its plans, allowing users to try the service risk-free. This guarantee ensures that users can thoroughly test the VPN’s features and performance to determine if it meets their needs before making a long-term commitment.

Promotions and Discounts: NordVPN frequently runs promotions and discounts, especially during holidays and special events. These promotions can significantly reduce the cost of subscriptions, making the service more affordable for a broader range of users. The recent merger with Atlas VPN may also bring new promotional offers, providing additional opportunities for savings.

Payment Methods: NordVPN accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies, providing flexibility and anonymity for users who prefer to keep their payment information private. This range of payment options ensures that users can choose the method that best suits their preferences and security concerns.

Additional Benefits: NordVPN’s subscription plans come with additional benefits, such as the ability to connect up to six devices simultaneously with a single account. This feature is particularly useful for families or users with multiple devices, ensuring that all their gadgets can be protected without needing separate subscriptions. The integration of Atlas VPN’s infrastructure may also lead to further enhancements in device connectivity and overall service quality.

Is there a NordVPN Free Version?

NordVPN does not offer a free version of its service. Instead, it focuses on providing a comprehensive premium experience with a robust set of features and high-level security. This approach ensures that all users receive the best possible service without the limitations often associated with free VPNs, such as restricted bandwidth, fewer server options, and lower security standards.

While there is no free version, NordVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on all its plans, allowing users to test the service risk-free. This guarantee acts as a de facto free trial, giving users the opportunity to explore all the features and benefits of NordVPN before committing to a subscription.

By not offering a free version, NordVPN can allocate more resources to maintaining and improving its network, ensuring that premium users experience fast speeds, reliable connections, and top-notch security. This commitment to quality makes NordVPN a strong choice for users seeking a dependable and comprehensive VPN service.

Does NordVPN Work in China?

NordVPN is one of the few VPN services that reliably works in China, thanks to its advanced obfuscation technology. This technology disguises VPN traffic as regular web traffic, enabling users to bypass the Great Firewall and access the global internet without restrictions. This feature is crucial for users in China, where internet censorship is stringent and many VPNs fail to connect.

• Obfuscated Servers: NordVPN offers specialized obfuscated servers designed to work in restrictive regions like China. These servers mask VPN traffic, making it appear as standard HTTPS traffic, which helps to evade deep packet inspection (DPI) used by Chinese authorities. This ensures that users can access websites and services that are otherwise blocked in China, such as Google, Facebook, and various news sites.

• Reliable Access: The integration of Atlas VPN’s technology and resources has further enhanced NordVPN’s capabilities in restrictive regions. Users can expect improved reliability and performance when accessing the internet in China, thanks to the expanded server network and advanced obfuscation techniques.

• User Experience: NordVPN’s user-friendly apps make it easy to connect to obfuscated servers. Users simply need to select the appropriate server type within the app to start bypassing regional restrictions. The seamless experience ensures that even users who are not tech-savvy can effectively navigate internet censorship.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

NordVPN is compatible with a wide range of platforms, ensuring that users can protect all their devices with a single subscription. The service supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers, providing comprehensive coverage for desktop and mobile devices as well as home networks.

Device Support

With a single NordVPN account, users can connect up to six devices simultaneously. This feature is particularly beneficial for families or individuals with multiple devices, ensuring that all their internet traffic is protected. The merger with Atlas VPN has further enhanced NordVPN’s compatibility and performance across various platforms, integrating Atlas VPN’s strengths in mobile applications and other devices.

Easy Installation and Setup

NordVPN’s apps are designed for ease of use, featuring intuitive interfaces and simple setup processes. Users can quickly install the VPN on their devices and start enjoying secure internet access within minutes. The apps include user-friendly settings and features, making it easy for both beginners and advanced users to customize their VPN experience.

Router Compatibility

For users who want to protect their entire home network, NordVPN can be configured on compatible routers. This setup ensures that all devices connected to the network, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and IoT devices, are secured. The router configuration is particularly useful for households with many devices or users who want to ensure comprehensive protection without installing individual apps on each device.

User-Friendliness and Customer Service at NordVPN

NordVPN is renowned for its user-friendly interface, which makes navigating the service and adjusting settings straightforward for both beginners and advanced users. The applications are designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, ensuring that users can quickly connect to servers and access the various features offered by the VPN.

Interface and Navigation

NordVPN’s apps feature a clean, intuitive design that allows users to easily find and connect to servers. The server list is well-organized, with options to search by country, server type (e.g., P2P, Double VPN, Obfuscated), and specific use cases like streaming. This makes it easy for users to select the optimal server for their needs with just a few clicks.

Setup and Installation

Setting up NordVPN is quick and hassle-free. The installation process is guided, providing clear instructions that ensure users can start using the VPN within minutes. Whether you are installing the app on a desktop, mobile device, or router, NordVPN provides detailed guides and support to assist with the process.

Customer Support

NordVPN offers robust customer support through multiple channels:

• 24/7 Live Chat: Users can access instant help from NordVPN’s support team at any time, ensuring that issues are resolved quickly and efficiently.
• Email Support: For more detailed queries, users can reach out via email and receive comprehensive responses from knowledgeable support agents.
• Help Center: NordVPN’s website includes a comprehensive help center with FAQs, setup guides, troubleshooting tips, and detailed articles covering various aspects of the service.

User Experience Enhancements

NordVPN continuously updates its apps to improve user experience, incorporating feedback and adding new features. The integration with Atlas VPN is likely to bring additional enhancements, further simplifying the interface and expanding the range of supported devices.

Other Features

NordVPN offers a range of advanced features designed to enhance user security, privacy, and overall experience. These features set NordVPN apart as a versatile and comprehensive VPN service suitable for various use cases, from everyday browsing to specialized security needs.

• Double VPN: NordVPN provides a Double VPN feature, which routes your traffic through two separate VPN servers for extra encryption. This double layer of security makes it even more difficult for third parties to trace your activities, ensuring maximum privacy and protection. This feature is particularly useful for users who require a high level of anonymity, such as journalists and activists operating in restrictive environments.

• Onion Over VPN: Combining the benefits of Tor with a VPN, NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN feature routes your traffic through the Tor network after it leaves the VPN tunnel. This provides an additional layer of security and privacy, making it virtually impossible to trace your internet activities back to you. It’s an excellent feature for users seeking the highest level of anonymity.

• CyberSec: NordVPN’s CyberSec feature offers ad blocking and protection against malware, phishing attempts, and other cyber threats. When enabled, CyberSec automatically blocks suspicious websites, preventing malware and other threats from compromising your device. This not only enhances security but also improves browsing speed by blocking unwanted ads.

• Kill Switch: NordVPN includes a robust kill switch that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This ensures that your data is never exposed, even momentarily. The kill switch is available on both desktop and mobile applications, providing comprehensive protection across all devices.

• Dedicated IP Addresses: For users who need a consistent IP address, NordVPN offers dedicated IP addresses. This feature is useful for accessing secure corporate networks, online banking, or other services that require a stable IP. A dedicated IP can also help avoid captchas and reduce the risk of being blocked by websites.

• Split Tunneling: Available on the Windows and Android apps, split tunneling allows users to choose which applications or websites use the VPN connection and which ones use the regular internet connection. This feature is beneficial for accessing local services while keeping other activities secure through the VPN.

• SafeSwap and SafeBrowse: Incorporating features from Atlas VPN, NordVPN may soon offer SafeSwap, which continuously changes your IP address while connected, making it even harder for anyone to track your online activities. SafeBrowse, another potential addition, blocks malicious ads and websites, providing a safer browsing experience.

• Data Breach Monitor: NordVPN’s Data Breach Monitor scans the internet for leaked credentials associated with your email address. If your data is found in a breach, NordVPN alerts you, allowing you to take necessary actions to secure your accounts. This proactive feature helps protect your personal information from being exploited.

Is NordVPN Worth Your Money?

NordVPN’s reputation as a top-tier VPN service is definitely not accidental, and several factors show why it is well-earned and therefore a compelling choice worth its price.

1. Value for Money: NordVPN offers a range of pricing plans, including monthly, annual, and multi-year options, each designed to provide excellent value. The longer-term plans offer significant savings, making the high-quality service more affordable. With the integration of Atlas VPN, users can expect even more competitive pricing and enhanced features, ensuring that every dollar spent goes further in providing top-notch VPN services.

2. Unmatched Security and Privacy: One of the most critical reasons NordVPN is worth its price is its unparalleled commitment to security and privacy. The VPN uses industry-leading AES-256 encryption and provides advanced features like Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, and a reliable kill switch. These features ensure that your data remains secure, and your online activities stay private, making it an excellent investment for anyone concerned about their digital privacy.

3. Performance and Reliability: NordVPN boasts over 5,500 servers in 60 countries, ensuring fast and reliable connections worldwide. This extensive network, enhanced by the addition of Atlas VPN’s servers, reduces congestion and maintains high-speed performance, which is crucial for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. The consistent performance and broad server coverage make NordVPN a dependable choice for users who need a reliable VPN service.

4. User-Friendly Experience: NordVPN is designed with user experience in mind. Its intuitive interface, easy setup process, and responsive customer support make it accessible for users of all technical levels. The 24/7 live chat support ensures that help is always available, adding to the overall value and reliability of the service.

5. Continuous Improvement and Innovation: NordVPN continually updates its services and introduces new features to enhance user experience. The recent merger with Atlas VPN has brought in innovative features like SafeSwap and SafeBrowse, which add extra layers of security and convenience. This commitment to improvement ensures that users always have access to the latest in VPN technology, making the investment in NordVPN worthwhile.

Summary

NordVPN, now bolstered by the acquisition of Atlas VPN, stands as a premier choice for users seeking a comprehensive and reliable VPN service. Its robust security features, including AES-256 encryption and advanced protocols, ensure user data remains private and secure. The extensive server network, now enhanced with additional servers from Atlas VPN, guarantees fast and reliable connections across the globe, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

The user-friendly interface and responsive customer support make NordVPN accessible to users of all levels, while continuous updates and innovative features like SafeSwap and SafeBrowse demonstrate the company’s commitment to staying ahead in the VPN industry. With competitive pricing and a strong focus on privacy, NordVPN offers excellent value for money, ensuring users are well-protected and can enjoy unrestricted internet access. Overall, NordVPN is a top-tier VPN service that effectively meets the needs of its users, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone concerned about their online security and privacy.

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FAQ – NordVPN (Merging Atlas VPN) Review

How does NordVPN compare to other VPN services?

NordVPN stands out due to its extensive server network, strong security features, and user-friendly interface. With the recent merger with Atlas VPN, it has expanded its server coverage and improved its streaming and torrenting capabilities. Compared to other top VPNs, NordVPN offers a robust combination of privacy protection, speed, and versatility.

Can NordVPN bypass geo-restrictions on all major streaming services?

NordVPN is highly effective at bypassing geo-restrictions and unblocking popular streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Disney+. The addition of Atlas VPN’s infrastructure has enhanced its ability to access a broader range of content from different regions.

Is NordVPN suitable for gaming?

Yes, NordVPN is suitable for gaming. It provides high-speed servers and low latency, which are crucial for a smooth gaming experience. The integration with Atlas VPN has further improved server performance and reduced lag, making it a good choice for gamers who need to bypass regional restrictions or protect their online activity.

Does NordVPN have any features for extra security?

NordVPN offers several advanced security features, including Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers for added encryption, and CyberSec, which blocks malicious websites and ads. The merger with Atlas VPN has introduced additional security options and improvements, such as enhanced leak protection and secure browsing features.

How does NordVPN handle user privacy?

NordVPN has a strong commitment to user privacy with its no-logs policy, which means it does not track or store user activity. It is based in Panama, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, and its policies have been audited to ensure compliance. The addition of Atlas VPN’s privacy practices strengthens NordVPN’s commitment to protecting user data.

What kind of customer support does NordVPN offer?

NordVPN provides 24/7 customer support through live chat and email. This ensures users can get help whenever they need it. The support system has been enhanced by Atlas VPN’s resources, leading to quicker response times and more comprehensive assistance.

Is NordVPN compatible with all devices?

NordVPN supports a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. It can also be configured on routers, which helps protect all devices connected to the network. The integration with Atlas VPN has enhanced cross-platform compatibility and user experience.

How can I set up NordVPN?

Setting up NordVPN is straightforward. You can download and install the app from NordVPN’s website or your device’s app store. After installation, log in, select a server, and connect. The setup process is user-friendly and has been optimized further following the merger with Atlas VPN.