If you’re running Ubuntu or any other Linux-based OS, you might have noticed that it can be tough to find a VPN that works smoothly with your system.
NordVPN is among the few top-tier services that offer an app for Linux users, making it a great option if you’re looking to install a VPN on Ubuntu.
In this article, we’ll tell you how to install NordVPN on Ubuntu with some additional commands to connect to a server of your choice. Follow the steps below and you’ll be up and running in no time.
How to Install NordVPN On Ubuntu?
You can install NordVPN on Ubuntu in the following ways:
- Install the NordVPN Package Repository on your Ubuntu system.
- Set up NordVPN on Ubuntu with OpenVPN.
We’ll go through both methods below, starting with the NordVPN Package Repository.
Know more about NordVPN by visiting our detailed guide: How Does NordVPN Work
Method # 1: How to Install NordVPN On Ubuntu With Package Repository
If you’re running Ubuntu 16.04 or later, NordVPN’s package repository is the recommended method to install the app.
First, you need to do download the NordVPN app for Ubuntu from the NordVPN website.
Once you’ve downloaded it successfully, follow the steps below.
Step 1: Open your terminal window and enter the following command:
sudo dpkg -i /FilePath/nordvpn – release_1.0.0_all.deb
Step 2: Now replace “FilePath” in the command with the folder you’ve downloaded the NordVPN file.
Suppose I have downloaded the NordVPN file in Downloads, then my command would like this now:
sudo dpkg -i /Downloads/nordvpn – release_1.0.0_all.deb
Step 3: Now you might have to enter your root password for your machine. Then let the installation finish. It might take a couple of minutes.
Step 4: You need to update the package now. Enter the following command to do that:
sudo apt update
sudo apt get-upgrade
Step 5: Install the NordVPN app by entering the following command:
sudo apt install nordvpn
Step 6: Log in with your NordVPN credentials, enter the command:
nordvpn login
Step 7: Now to connect to the default fastest server, just type this and press enter:
nordvpn connect
But if you want to connect to a specific country or server location, then your command should look like this:
nordvpn connect United_States Virginia
For available countries you can connect to, enter the command:
nordvpn countries
For available cities, enter the command:
nordvpn cities
Method # 2: How to Install NordVPN On Ubuntu With OpenVPN?
If you’re running an Ubuntu version that’s older than 16.04, or if you just don’t want to use the package repository, NordVPN also provides instructions for installing the app with OpenVPN.
Installing the NordVPN app with OpenVPN is a little more complicated than using the package repository method. But if you follow the steps below, you should be able to get it done without any trouble.
Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: You need to install OpenVPN on your Ubuntu first. Enter the following command:
sudo apt install openvpn
Step 2: The configuration files for NordVPN OpenVPN can be obtained by entering the following command:
cd /etc/openvpn
sudo wget
https://downloads.nordcdn.com/configs/archives/servers/ovpn.zip
sudo unzip ./ovpn.zip
If you notice an error while downloading the file, then you probably need to enter the ca-certificate package and install it. Enter the following command:
sudo apt get-install ca-certificates
Step 3: After you run the sudo unzip ./ovpn.zip command, you’ll get two folders named ovpn_tcp and ovpn_udp. These are the OpenVPN configuration files for the NordVPN server.
Step 4: To connect to one of the NordVPN servers, enter the following command:
openvpn /etc/openvpn/ovpn_udp/de442.nordvpn.com.udp.ovpn
At this point, you’ll need to enter your NordVPN credentials.
That’s it! You’ve now successfully installed NordVPN on Ubuntu and are ready to start using it to protect your online privacy. Enjoy!
Additional NordVPN Commands On Ubuntu
- If you want to check your NordVPN connection status, enter the following command:
nordvpn status
- To check your NordVPN account details (it will show you the email address of this account and the day your subscription plan expires)
nordvpn account
- To check your NordVPN settings, enter the following command:
nordvpn settings
- If you want NordVPN to connect to a server when you turn on your computer, enter the following command:
nordvpn set autoconnect on
- To view the list of commands, enter the following command:
nordvpn -h
What Is A VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that helps to improve your online privacy and security.
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in another location, hiding your real IP address and making it difficult for third parties to track your online activity.
A VPN can also be used to bypass geographic restrictions, such as those imposed by Netflix or other streaming services.
By connecting to a VPN server in another country, you can “trick” these services into thinking you’re located in that country and gain access to content that would normally be unavailable to you.
Why You Should Use NordVPN On Ubuntu?
NordVPN is a great option for Ubuntu. It’s easy to install and provides a high level of security and privacy protection.
In addition, NordVPN offers some great features, such as:
AES-256 Encryption.
NordVPN will encrypt your traffic with AES-256, which is the same level of encryption used by the military. This means that your data will be safe from hackers and government surveillance.
Also, NordVPN uses the OpenVPN protocol, which is considered to be the most secure VPN protocol available. So you can be sure that your traffic is being protected.
No-Logs Policy.
NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy, which means that your data will never be stored or monitored. This is important for protecting your privacy online.
Also, NordVPN is registered in Panama, which has no data retention laws and the country is outside of the jurisdiction of the 14 Eyes countries. So you can be sure that your data is safe with NordVPN.
Access to Geo-Restrictions.
NordVPN will allow you to access geo-restricted content, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more.
This is because NordVPN has 5000+ servers in over 60 countries. So you can connect to a server in the country where the content is available and stream it without any restrictions.
Built-in Kill Switch.
NordVPN has a built-in kill switch feature, which will block all internet traffic if the VPN connection is lost. This is important for protecting your data in case the VPN connection drops.
Dedicated Server.
NordVPN offers a dedicated server feature, which allows you to connect to a server that’s been configured for specific purposes.
For example, you can connect to a server that’s optimized for streaming or one that’s optimized for security. But it requires an additional fee of $70/year.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee.
NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service risk-free. If you’re not satisfied with the service, you can cancel within the first 30 days and get a full refund.
The process of getting a refund is easy and you’ll have your money back in no time. Just go to the NordVPN website, find the live chat button and generate a request for a refund. You’ll have the money transferred to your account in 3 to 4 days.
CyberSec.
NordVPN has a cybersec feature, which will block ads and malware. This is important for protecting your privacy and security online. It’s a great feature to have, especially if you’re using public Wi-Fi.
DoubleVPN.
NordVPN has a double VPN feature, which will encrypt your traffic twice.
This feature comes in handy when you’re doing some shady work on the internet or when you require some extra layers of security because of your sensitive profession.
It can also be used by journalists or activists to keep themselves under the radar.
Disclaimer: Using a VPN to carry out your illegal activities is still illegal. Whatever is illegal without a VPN is also illegal even if you’re doing it with a VPN.
NordVPN Plans & Pricing
NordVPN has three plans:
- $11.99/month
- $59.88/year ($99 when the subscription comes up for renewal after the first year).
- $95.76/two years (prices may increase after two years)
The longer the plan, the cheaper it is per month. You can also get a NordVPN coupon to save even more money.
For further information on average VPN pricing, visit our detailed guide: How Much Does a VPN Cost
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use NordVPN?
Can I use NordVPN on my mobile device?
How much does NordVPN cost?
Does NordVPN offer a free trial?
How to get a refund if I want to cancel my subscription under 30 days?
What is a kill switch?
How many devices can I use with NordVPN?
Bottom Line
NordVPN is a great VPN service for those who are looking for security and privacy. It offers a high level of security and protection, as well as a no-logs policy.
In addition, NordVPN is compatible with most major operating systems, including Linux. If you’re looking for a VPN to use on Ubuntu, NordVPN is a great option.
We hope that we have cleared your confusion on how to install NordVPN on Ubuntu. So go ahead, get NordVPN, and stay safe and secure online. Cheers!
