Use NordLynx for everyday browsing, streaming and gaming: it’s the fastest. Switch to OpenVPN when you want maximum stability, and to NordWhisper only on networks that block VPNs.
The catch: the 2-year price renews at the regular rate after the first 27 months.
The protocol you pick changes your speed, stability and whether you can connect on restricted networks. NordVPN offers three, each built for a different job.
What is a VPN protocol?
A protocol is the method the app uses to build the encrypted tunnel between your device and the server. It affects encryption, speed, stability and whether the connection gets through network blocks.
The three NordVPN protocols side by side
| Protocol | Best for | Pick it when |
|---|---|---|
| NordLynx Our pick | Speed | Everyday browsing, streaming, gaming, video calls |
| OpenVPN | Stability | You want a long-proven protocol; UDP is faster, TCP more reliable |
| NordWhisper | Restricted networks | Hotel, airport, campus or office Wi-Fi blocks VPNs |
NordLynx: fastest, and the best default
NordLynx is NordVPN’s own protocol built on WireGuard, and it’s the default in most apps. WireGuard’s small, modern codebase makes it fast, efficient and easier to audit than older protocols. For most people, NordLynx is the best protocol overall.
OpenVPN: proven and stable
OpenVPN is the long-established protocol many VPNs have used for years. It comes in two modes: UDP (faster) and TCP (more reliable on poor connections). Choose it when stability matters more than top speed.
NordWhisper: for networks that block VPNs
NordWhisper is NordVPN’s newest protocol, designed to get through networks that block standard VPN traffic, such as some hotel, airport, café, campus and office Wi-Fi. It doesn’t support every server type, so use it only when the other protocols won’t connect, and switch back on a normal network.
How to switch protocols
- Open the NordVPN app and go to Settings.
- Find Protocol (in the connection settings).
- Choose the protocol, then reconnect.
FAQ
What is the best NordVPN protocol?
NordLynx for most people. It’s the fastest and the default in most apps.
Is OpenVPN safer than NordLynx?
Both are secure. OpenVPN is older and very proven; NordLynx is faster. Pick by speed and stability, not safety.
When should I use NordWhisper?
Only on networks that block VPN connections. Switch back to NordLynx afterwards.
75% off NordVPN Complete for 2 years, checked on nordvpn.com on 15 Oct 2026, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.