NordVPN Meshnet review: what is it and how does it work?
With extensive analysis and hands-on VPN testing, our cybersecurity experts collaborated with the research team to craft 750+ articles over the years.
Using first-hand expertise, our main goal is to help our readers make the most informed purchasing decisions.
Learn more-
Inga Valiaugaitė
Writer
NordVPN Meshnet is a free feature that allows you to connect devices directly to each other without going through the internet. This makes it a more secure and private way to share files, game with your friends, or work remotely.
What sets Meshnet apart from conventional VPN servers is that it provides you an opportunity to set up a private network of your own. Rather than connecting you to a VPN server, Meshnet enables direct connections with other devices, regardless of their physical location. That way, you can securely access files on your home computer while on the move and freely engage in activities like gaming, streaming, and file sharing.
In this Meshnet review, we’ll explain what it actually is, how it works, and what benefits you can and can’t get.
NordVPN Meshnet pros and cons
What is NordVPN Meshnet?
Meshnet is NordVPN’s feature that enables secure access to devices located anywhere in the world. Once configured, Meshnet operates similarly to a secure local area network (LAN) by establishing direct connections between devices.
Meshnet is ideal for tasks that demand high speed and enhanced security, such as sharing files, collaborating on projects, or engaging in multiplayer gaming. As of now, Meshnet is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. With easy-to-manage traffic routing permissions, Meshnet places you firmly in control of who can access your devices.
How does NordVPN Meshnet work?
NordVPN Meshnet works by using P2P technology to connect different points in a private network without the need to pass by a central gateway. The connection is not rerouted through one of the many NordVPN servers. Instead, the traffic travels across devices connected to the network via encrypted tunnels. Basically, it allows users to create their own private network by connecting up to 60 devices at once.
The encrypted tunnel is powered by a proprietary, NordVPN-branded WireGuard tunneling protocol variation – NordLynx. It ensures a fast and secure encrypted connection.
How much does NordVPN Meshnet cost?
Regarded as one of the top VPN services, NordVPN recently made Meshnet completely free and available for everyone, even if you’re not subscribed to NordVPN premium plans. If you’re already a NordVPN user – you can find the Meshnet feature on your app and simply enable it.
If you’re new – you won’t need a subscription to use Meshnet technology. You can simply create a Nord account using your email address, and the Meshnet feature is available to use free of charge.
However, if you prioritize your security and privacy, you may want to consider purchasing a NordVPN subscription with Meshnet included. A NordVPN premium plan will give you access to all of NordVPN's features, including a broad server fleet of over 6300 servers in 111 countries, a secure VPN connection, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and impeccable streaming capabilities. You can get NordVPN premium for $3.09/month or try a free NordVPN 7-day trial.
How to use NordVPN Meshnet?
Using NordVPN Meshnet is very easy to handle. You can set it up on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux operating systems. Below you can find a short tutorial on how to use NordVPN Meshnet tutorial on different devices:
-
Download and Install NordVPN on all the devices you want to connect to Meshnet
- Open the NordVPN app on each device
-
Sign up or log in to your NordVPN account
-
Head to the settings and turn on the Meshnet toggle
-
If you want to allow other users to connect to your Meshnet, click on the Link a new device button and enter their email address
-
Once a user accepts your invitation, they will be able to connect to your Meshnet
Once you have set up NordVPN Meshnet, you can use it to securely connect up to 60 devices (10 devices from a single Meshnet account and up to 50 external devices) to each other on your network. You’re all set to share files and collaborate with others. Let’s say you want to connect your Mac device to your iPhone. Once you select your phone to be connected, it will automatically let you use all the Meshnet benefits.
What can you do with NordVPN Meshnet?
You can use NordVPN Meshnet in a myriad of practical ways that enhance your online collaboration experience. With the ability to create a decentralized network, Meshnet enables seamless file sharing, gaming, direct access to other devices, and more:
- File sharing. NordVPN Meshnet file sharing lets you send up to 1000 files of any type or size wirelessly and securely from anywhere in a single transfer – for free. Whether you need to collaborate on work documents or share personal media, NordVPN Meshnet ensures your data remains protected throughout the process.
- Gaming. NordVPN Meshnet can be used for gaming – it optimizes your connection for gaming purposes, reducing latency and providing a smoother online gaming experience over LAN. If you're competing in multiplayer games, Meshnet helps enhance your gameplay by ensuring a secure private network where no outsiders can bother your gaming buddies.
- Remote device access. If you’re traveling or are away from your device, you can access it remotely by using Meshnet. As long as you have a Meshnet-enabled device linked to other devices you want to access, you’re good to go. You’ll have no problem accessing devices, such as media servers like Synology Drive or even smart home systems.
- Bypass Netflix sharing ban. In the case of the recent Netflix password sharing ban, where users are restricted from sharing their accounts, NordVPN Meshnet allows you to route their traffic via your friend’s devices and help you bypass the Netflix password sharing crackdown. With Meshnet, your Netflix account users can mimic their IP address with yours and trick Netflix into thinking that you are all streaming from the same location.
It’s worth noting that Meshnet, although it serves a specific group of users with specific needs, is not designed for individuals who primarily use VPNs to access streaming platforms or secure browsing and complete privacy.
Meshnet doesn’t replace a full-featured VPN. Bypassing geo-blocks, streaming international content privately, and anonymous internet browsing are available to use if you’re connected to a VPN server. We recommend getting a premium NordVPN plan if security and privacy are your top priorities.
Get NordVPNIs NordVPN Meshnet safe?
Yes, all Meshnet connections are encrypted, as it’s being routed through a secure tunnel with NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol, so your shared files are protected from any third parties.
However, it's important to note that Meshnet is not a replacement for a traditional VPN. Meshnet is designed for peer-to-peer file sharing and remote access, while a traditional VPN is designed to hide your IP address and protect your online activity from your ISP and other third parties.
If you're looking for a way to protect your online privacy, a traditional VPN is a better option. But if you're looking for a way to securely share files with friends or access your home computer remotely, Meshnet is a great choice.
Is NordVPN Meshnet good?
Meshnet is a good and innovative way to connect devices together. It is secure, reliable, and easy to use. However, it’s still in its early stages of development, so it has some limitations. For example, there are some connection and configuration issues on Linux and other devices. Nonetheless, its mesh networking capabilities provide an alternative to traditional centralized networks (like Dropbox), reducing reliance on single points of failure.
NordVPN Meshnet is not a replacement for a traditional VPN, but it can be a useful addition to your security toolkit. It’s free to use, so there is no risk in trying it out.
FAQ
Does NordVPN work with Synology?
Yes, NordVPN does work and is one of the best VPNs for Synology. It provides a dedicated VPN client for Synology NAS devices, allowing users to secure their network traffic and protect their data. NordVPN's compatibility and strong privacy features make it an excellent choice for Synology users.
Is Meshnet the same as VPN?
No, Meshnet is not the same as a VPN. While NordVPN’s Meshnet creates a network between its users, it’s not equivalent to a traditional VPN. Meshnet focuses on creating a decentralized network, whereas a VPN primarily provides encrypted and secure connections over the internet.
What does Meshnet do on NordVPN?
NordVPN's Meshnet is a private network that allows you to connect your devices directly to each other without going through the internet. This allows for a more secure and faster to share files, play games, or work remotely. Meshnet is free to use and can be enabled in the NordVPN app.
What are the benefits of NordVPN Meshnet?
Some of the benefits of NordVPN Meshnet are security, stable speeds, more flexible file sharing and gaming, or remote device access. Meshnet uses NordVPN’s encryption to protect your data from prying eyes. It also connects your devices directly to each other without going through the internet, which ensures stable speeds.
How do I access files using NordVPN Meshnet?
To access files using NordVPN Meshnet, you will need to enable Meshnet on all of the devices that you want to share files with. Once Meshnet is enabled, you can simply drag and drop files between the devices. NordVPN Meshnet uses encryption to protect your data, so you can be sure your files are safe and sound.
How many devices can be connected to a single Meshnet network?
A single Meshnet network can support up to 60 devices. You can connect 10 devices from a single Meshnet account and up to 50 external devices.
Can I use NordVPN on multiple devices?
Yes. NordVPN is a reliable VPN for multiple devices. You can use NordVPN on up to 6 devices simultaneously with a single account. It supports all popular operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and many smart devices.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are markedmarked