NordVPN works best on Mac when you use the NordVPN native application. The NordVPN native application was designed specifically for Mac users to make it easy and convenient to access all of the great features.
These include Double VPN, Onion over VPN servers, and an automated Kill Switch.
In this guide, we’ll tell you how to install NordVPN on Mac with the two different versions of the NordVPN native application. We’ll also learn how we can install the NordVPN app manually with Tunnelblick.
If you don’t know what a VPN is, it’s a powerful tool that hides your online traffic from your internet service provider (ISP), so you can browse, stream, and download anonymously.
VPNs are also great for bypassing censorship and accessing geo-restricted content. Streaming services like Netflix or Hulu have libraries according to region. A VPN lets you stream movies and TV shows that are only available in other countries.
There are many VPNs to choose from, but NordVPN is a great option because it has a strict no-logs policy. This means that your activities cannot be traced, even if the authorities request user data from NordVPN.
So without further ado, let’s get started on how to install NordVPN on Mac!
Short on time? Here’s a Short Summary of How to Install NordVPN On Mac
- Go to the Mac App Store and search “NordVPN”.
- Click on the Get button.
- Install NordVPN on your Mac computer.
- Launch NordVPN.
- Sign in with your NordVPN credentials.
- Either use the Quick Connect button or connect to your preferred location server.
Want to know more about NordVPN? Visit our detailed guide: How Does NordVPN Work
How to Install NordVPN On Mac?
You can install NordVPN in the following ways:
- Install the NordVPN app for Mac from the Mac App Store.
- Install NordVPN’s IKEv2 application on Mac.
- Install NordVPN with OpenVPN on your Mac.
- Install NordVPN manually on your Mac computer.
We’ll tell you about all of these installation methods below. Keep on reading.
Method # 1: How to Install NordVPN On Mac By Downloading the NordVPN App?
The NordVPN app is available in the App Store and can be easily downloaded. Here’s how you can do it.
Step 1: Go to the Mac App Store and download NordVPN, or just click here.
Step 2: Install the NordVPN app on your Mac.
Step 3: Log in with your NordVPN credentials. If you don’t have a subscription plan, get one by visiting this link.
Step 4: You can either use the Quick Connect button to connect to the fastest default server or you can choose a preferred location from the NordVPN server list.
That’s all there is to it! You’re now ready to enjoy the benefits of NordVPN.
Method # 2: How to Install NordVPN On Mac Using the IKEv2 Application?
IKEv2/IPSec is the best option for most users as it is a secure and fast VPN protocol. To use the IKEv2/IPSec protocol, please follow these instructions.
Step 1: Visit this link and download the NordVPN IKEv2 app from the Mac App Store. You can also click the download button on the NordVPN website.
Step 2: Click on View in Mac App Store.
Step 3: You’ll see a “Get” button under the NordVPN IKEv2 App. Click that button.
Step 4: Now click on “Install App“.
Step 5: Once the installation process finishes, you should see the NordVPN IKEv2 app on your Mac Launchpad. Launch the app by clicking it.
Step 6: On the top right corner, click on the login button and sign in with your NordVPN credentials. If you don’t have an account, get a VPN subscription plan from NordVPN by clicking on Sign Up.
Step 7: Once logged in, you can use the Quick Connect button on the top right corner to connect to the default fastest server. Or you can choose a location server of your preference from the list on left.
That’s it! You’re now ready to use the NordVPN IKEv2/IPSec application.
Method # 3: How to Install NordVPN On Mac With OpenVPN?
if you are using an older Mac or have trouble connecting with IKEv2/IPSec, then you can try using OpenVPN which is compatible with a wider range of devices.
To use the NordVPN OpenVPN protocol, please follow these instructions.
Step 1: Go to the NordVPN website and click on the Download VPN tab on top. Or just visit this link.
Step 2: It will detect your Mac and you’ll see a download button for the NordVPN app for Mac.
Step 3: Click on “Download the OpenVPN version with Threat Protection“.
Step 4: Head to the Downloads folder of your Mac computer and launch the file you just downloaded.
Step 5: Install the Helper program by giving permission. You may need to enter your Mac password.
Step 6: Once the installation process finishes, go to your Mac launchpad and find the NordVPN app.
Step 7: Launch the NordVPN app.
Step 8: Sign in with your NordVPN credentials by clicking on the login button in the top right corner. If you don’t have an account, Sign Up for NordVPN.
Step 9: Once you’re logged in, you can use the Quick Connect button or connect to a preferred location server by choosing a server.
That’s all! You’re now ready to use the NordVPN OpenVPN protocol on your Mac computer.
Method # 4: How to Install NordVPN On Mac Manually?
If you don’t want to use the NordVPN app, you can install NordVPN on your Mac manually. We’ll be using Tunnelblick, which is a free and open-source OpenVPN client for macOS.
Step 1: If you don’t have Tunnelblick, download it from here.
Step 2: Now go to the NordVPN server recommendation tool.
Step 3: Under recommended servers, click on Show available protocols.
Step 4: Click on the OpenVPN Download Config button. Download the one between TCP or UDP which best suits your needs.
Step 5: Go to your Downloads folder and launch the Tunnelblick installation file.
Step 6: A window will appear, click on the Tunnelblick icon.
Step 7: Click on Open when a dialog box appears asking if you want to open the app.
Step 8: Enter the password for your Mac computer.
Step 9: Once the installation process completes, launch the Tunnelblick program.
Step 10: Click on “I have configuration files” when a dialog box appears on launching Tunnelblick.
Step 11: Click on OK for the next instructions dialog box.
Step 12: Now browse to the Downloads folder, drag and drop the .ovpn config file into the Configuration section of Tunnelblick.
Step 13: Select an option if you want to install this configuration file for the current user or all the users of your Mac computer.
Step 14: Enter your Mac password again.
Step 15: A dialog box will appear warning you that “this VPN may not connect in the future” and you might need to update it with a later version. Check the box that says “Do not warn about this again” and click OK.
Step 16: Pick a server and press Connect.
Step 17: Enter your NordVPN credentials. To save them, click on Save in Keychain and then press OK.
That’s it! You’re now ready to use NordVPN on your Mac computer.
How to Find My NordVPN Service Credentials?
Here’s how you can get your NordVPN service credentials:
Step 1: Go to Nord Account and log in with your username or email address.
Step 2: Click on NordVPN on the left panel.
Step 3: Under the Advanced Configuration section, find your service credentials for manual setup.
Step 4: Use the copy button next to your username and password for ease.
Why You Should Use NordVPN On Mac?
NordVPN on your Mac provides several advantages. Some of them are:
AES 256-bit Encryption
NordVPN uses the most advanced security method, AES-256-bit encryption, to protect your data. This is the same level of protection used by banks and governments around the world.
It is sometimes called military-grade encryption. So with NordVPN, you can be sure that your data is safe and hackers are kept at bay.
Double VPN for Extra Protection
With NordVPN, you can connect to two VPN servers at once and encrypt your traffic twice. The Double VPN feature will keep your data safe from prying eyes, even on public Wi-Fi networks.
This feature can be used by people who want to maximize their online privacy or by businesses who need to keep their data secure.
Onion Over VPN
The Onion over VPN feature provides an extra layer of security and privacy by routing your traffic through the Tor network. This is perfect for people who want to keep their activities hidden from surveillance and censorship.
People with sensitive professions like journalists or activists use the Onion over VPN feature to protect their work and communication.
Kill Switch
The Kill Switch is a NordVPN feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if you lose your VPN connection. This will keep your data safe and prevents any accidental disclosure of sensitive information.
The Kill Switch is perfect for people who use public Wi-Fi networks or for businesses that want to make sure their data is always protected.
Streaming Support
NordVPN on Mac provides high-speed streaming without buffering. You can watch your favorite shows and movies without any interruptions.
NordVPN also allows you to unblock Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming services that are blocked in your region. Every region has a different selection of shows and movies, but with NordVPN, you can access them all.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
If you’re not happy with NordVPN, then it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can try the service risk-free and see for yourself how it works.
Although you’ll love NordVPN as you start using it. But in case you feel like it’s not satisfying your VPN needs. You can get a refund within 30 days.
Just go to the NordVPN website, find the live chat button and generate a refund request. You’ll get your money in no time.
Dedicated Server
If you need more bandwidth, speed, or security, then you can purchase a dedicated NordVPN server. NordVPN has a variety of servers to choose from and each one is specifically tailored for different needs.
You can also add additional devices to your account and share the VPN connection with them. But it comes with an extra cost of $70/year.
NordVPN Plans & Pricing
NordVPN offers a variety of plans to choose from. You can get a one-month, one-year, or two-year subscription. The longer the subscription, the cheaper the price per month.
All NordVPN plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free.
Here are the three plans that NordVPN offers:
- One-month plan: $11.95
- One-year plan: $59.88 (for the first time, prices may increase)
- Two-year plan: $95.76 (for the first time, prices may increase after)
For more information on average VPN pricing, visit our detailed guide: How Much Does a VPN Cost
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a dedicated NordVPN server cost?
What is a Kill Switch?
How can I unblock streaming services with NordVPN?
Can I use NordVPN on more than one device?
Is NordVPN safe to use?
What is Onion over VPN?
Why won't my Mac connect to NordVPN?
Conclusion
To sum it all up, NordVPN is a great choice for anyone looking for a VPN service. It provides high-speed streaming, security, and privacy.
And with the number of features it has to offer, you can’t go wrong with choosing NordVPN. If you’re not happy with the service, then you can always get a refund.
We hope this guide has helped you learn how to install NordVPN on Mac. And if you have any questions, drop them in the comment box below!
