Manual OpenVPN connection setup on iPad / iPhone

Note: if you are using iOS 13 or later, please follow this tutorial.

OpenVPN is a popular protocol our specialty servers use to provide extra functionality. This is an alternative connection method for when you are having trouble with the native NordVPN app for iOS. Here’s how to configure your iOS device for this connection method:

1. Go to the App Store on your iPad/iPhone.
2. Tap on Search.
3. Type openvpn connect in the search bar.
4. Tap on the installation button.
   
   
    
5. Enter your iTunes Store credentials and tap OK.
   
   
    
6. Once the app is installed, download the .OVPN configuration file here: https://nordvpn.com/servers/tools/. Make sure to use the Safari browser.
   
   
    
7. Select Open in OpenVPN.
   
   
   
   Alternatively, if you're brought to a safari window, follow these steps:
    
   1. Click on the Share icon:
      
      
       
   2. In the application list, select the OpenVPN Connect application (in case you don't see it, select more and then choose the application as mentioned earlier):
      
      
       
   3. Once the OpenVPN Connect application is open, select File:
      
      
       
   4. Afterward, select Add:
      
      
       
8. Enter your NordVPN service credentials, choose to save the password in a keychain, and tap ADD in the top right corner.
   
   You can find your NordVPN service credentials (username and password) through the Nord Account dashboard:
   1. Go to the menu bar:
      
      
       
   2. Click NordVPN.
      
      
       
   3. Scroll down and click Set up NordVPN manually​​​​​​.
      
      
       
   4. You will receive a verification code in your email that you use for NordVPN services. Type the code in: 
      
      
       
   5. Copy the credentials using the Copy button below.
      
      
      
      
       
9. You will see a pop-up asking for permission to add OpenVPN to your VPN configurations. Click Allow.
   
   
    
10. Tap on the toggle switch to connect to VPN.
    
    
     
11. That’s it! You have successfully connected.
    
    
     
12. To change a server, disconnect from the current server by tapping the toggle switch next to it and enable another imported profile.
    
    
     
13. To disconnect, tap on the same toggle button you used to connect.