OpenVPN vs. NordVPN🤔: Ultimate Comparison to Choose Your Best VPN. (2024)

Hello there!

As we all know, Surfing the internet safely is super important, and you'll find a lot of VPNs out there.

OpenVPN and NordVPN are two big names that often come up. So, which one is better?

Let's take a closer look at what each offers, their good and bad points, and figure out which one could be the right choice for what you need online.

Main Differences Between OpenVPN Vs. NordVPN.

• Connection Method: NordVPN uses OpenVPN among other methods to connect to the internet securely. On the other hand, OpenVPN is a free, open-source method that lots of VPN services use to help secure your internet connection.
• Pricing: NordVPN offers three different paid subscription plans to choose from. OpenVPN is free to use.
• Server Network: NordVPN has its own large network of over 5,400 servers across the globe. OpenVPN does not have any servers because it's just a secure way to connect to the internet, relying on other services or your setup for server access.

Overview of OpenVPN

OpenVPN is an open-source VPN protocol, which is one of the most popular and secure ways to connect to the internet securely. It creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet, encrypting the data that passes through to protect your online privacy and security.

Because it's open-source, its code is available for anyone to review, which helps ensure that it remains secure and up-to-date with the latest security standards. OpenVPN is highly configurable, making it adaptable for many different network environments and uses.

It supports various encryption standards and is widely regarded for its ability to bypass firewalls and internet restrictions, making it a favorite choice for both personal and enterprise VPN solutions.

Overview of NordVPN

NordVPN is a commercial VPN service that offers a wide range of features aimed at protecting your internet connection and privacy. It encrypts your online activity to protect your private data from hackers or snoopy advertisers, making it harder for third parties to track your online activities or steal your information.

NordVPN stands out for its strong security measures, which include support for multiple VPN protocols such as OpenVPN and their proprietary NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard technology.

Features Comparison: OpenVPN vs NordVPN

When comparing the features of OpenVPN and NordVPN, it's important to understand that we're looking at two different entities: OpenVPN is a VPN protocol used for creating secure connections, while NordVPN is a VPN service provider that uses multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, to offer a secure and private internet experience.

Let's dive into a more detailed comparison of their features.

Security and Encryption

• OpenVPN: As a protocol, OpenVPN offers high levels of security. It supports a wide range of encryption algorithms, including the industry-standard AES-256 bit encryption. Being open-source, it is regularly audited by the community, ensuring that any vulnerabilities are quickly identified and addressed.

• NordVPN: NordVPN also provides AES-256 bit encryption and supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN and NordLynx (based on WireGuard). NordVPN adds extra layers of security with features like Double VPN, which routes your connection through two servers for double encryption, and CyberSec, which blocks ads and malicious websites.

Speed and Performance

• OpenVPN: The performance of OpenVPN can vary depending on several factors like the server's location, the encryption level, and the internet service provider. Generally, it is known for stable and reliable connections but might not always offer the fastest speeds due to its high encryption standards.
• NordVPN: NordVPN's use of NordLynx, a protocol known for its speed and efficiency, often results in faster connections compared to traditional OpenVPN connections. NordVPN's large server network also helps optimize speed by allowing users to connect to the nearest server.

Ease of Use and Compatibility

• OpenVPN: Setting up OpenVPN can be complex for beginners, as it may require manual configuration depending on the device and operating system. However, it is highly compatible, working on most platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
• NordVPN: NordVPN provides user-friendly apps for a wide range of devices and operating systems, making it easy for users to connect to a VPN without manual configuration. The service automatically selects the best protocol for your connection, although users can choose to manually configure their connection to use OpenVPN if they prefer.

Server Network

• OpenVPN: As a protocol, OpenVPN does not have its own server network. Instead, it relies on servers provided by VPN service providers or personal setups.

• NordVPN: With over 5,400 servers in 60 countries, NordVPN offers one of the largest server networks available in the VPN market. This vast network helps ensure that users can find a server that meets their needs, whether they're looking for speed, location, or specific features like P2P sharing or obfuscated servers.

Pricing and Plans

OpenVPN: OpenVPN itself is free to use. However, accessing servers usually requires a subscription to a VPN service that supports OpenVPN, or setting up your own server.

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NordVPN: NordVPN offers several subscription plans, with pricing that varies based on the length of the subscription. Despite being a paid service, it often includes additional features like a kill switch, split tunneling, and dedicated IP options, providing value beyond just the VPN protocol.

Customer Support

OpenVPN Customer Support

• Support Channels: OpenVPN's support comes from community forums, documentation, and online resources, including setup guides and troubleshooting articles.
• Accessibility: Support is community-driven and can be less immediate and accessible, requiring users to search for answers themselves, which might be challenging for those not tech-savvy.
• Expertise: The community includes knowledgeable individuals, offering high-quality information, but experiences can vary due to its decentralized nature.

NordVPN Customer Support

• Support Channels: NordVPN provides 24/7 live chat, email support, and a detailed knowledge base for a range of issues.
• Accessibility: With round-the-clock live chat, users can get quick help anytime, making it highly accessible and useful for urgent needs.
• Expertise: The support team offers professional assistance on various issues, ensuring users receive informed and effective help.

Pros and Cons

OpenVPN

Pros:

• Free and open-source, meaning anyone can use or modify it.
• Highly secure with strong encryption.
• Works on most devices and operating systems.

Cons:

• Setup can be complicated for beginners.
• Speeds can vary depending on how it's set up.
• No dedicated customer support team.

NordVPN

Pros:

• Easy to use with apps for all major platforms.
• Very fast, especially with NordLynx protocol.
• 24/7 customer support through live chat and email.

Cons:

• Costs money, with various plans available.
• Some advanced features may overwhelm new users.
• Relies on its own server network, which could be a limitation for some users seeking custom setups.

Which VPN to Choose and Why?

Choose OpenVPN if:

• You prefer a free and open-source solution.
• You're technically savvy enough to handle its setup and configuration.
• You need a highly secure, customizable VPN protocol that can work across multiple devices and operating systems.

Choose NordVPN if:

• You're looking for an easy-to-use VPN with straightforward apps for various devices.
• You want fast connection speeds and don't mind paying for a premium service.
• You value having access to 24/7 customer support and a wide range of additional security features.

In summary, if customization and control are your priorities, and you're comfortable with a bit of technical setup, OpenVPN is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer convenience, speed, and an all-in-one solution with customer support, NordVPN is the way to go.

OpenVPN vs NordVPN: FAQs

Q. Which is better for streaming, OpenVPN or NordVPN?

Ans: NordVPN is generally better for streaming, thanks to its vast network of servers optimized for speed and its ability to bypass geo-restrictions effectively.

Q. Can OpenVPN and NordVPN ensure my anonymity online?

Ans: Both services offer strong encryption and security features to protect your identity online. However, NordVPN's additional features like Double VPN and Onion Over VPN provide extra layers of anonymity.

Q. Are OpenVPN and NordVPN suitable for torrenting?

Ans: Yes, both are suitable for torrenting. NordVPN, in particular, offers specialized P2P servers designed to enhance the torrenting experience.

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Wrapping UP

When deciding between OpenVPN and NordVPN, it really comes down to what you're looking for. OpenVPN gives you a lot of control and high security, making it great for those who like to tweak settings to get everything just right. NordVPN, on the other hand, is super user-friendly, very fast, and comes with lots of features, making it perfect for those who want an easy and comprehensive VPN service.

Whether you prefer the DIY approach of OpenVPN or the ready-to-go setup of NordVPN, keeping yourself safe online is more important than ever. Pick the option that suits you best, and surf the web safely and confidently.

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