The first step towards online security is setting up NordVPN correctly. Follow these simple steps to install the NordVPN app and connect to a VPN server.
Note: NordVPN supports macOS 12 Monterey, macOS 13 Ventura, macOS Sonoma 14, macOS 26 Tahoe, and above.
Attention: If you encounter issues during the installation of NordVPN on macOS Ventura, please refer to the following guide for a possible solution: macOS Ventura Error: The Installation Failed.
Downloading and installing the NordVPN app
- Go to the NordVPN macOS download page.
- Next, select the download app button:
- Alternatively, click here to download the latest macOS version:
- Afterwards, navigate to the folder where you downloaded NordVPN.pkg file and double-click on it to begin the installation:
Note: Ensure the download file is saved locally on your device (e.g., downloads folder, desktop) and not within Dropbox or other file management/synchronization tools or special folders.
- A new installation window will pop up, guiding you through the installation process. Choose to continue:
- Click on the install button:
- You will be asked for permission to install the installer, which is required to establish secure VPN tunnels. Enter your Mac's password or use touch ID:
- A message will confirm that the app was successfully installed. Close the window by pressing the close button:
Setting up and using the NordVPN application
- Open your launchpad and click on the NordVPN icon:
- If you have a NordVPN account, click the log in button in the top-right corner of the screen. If you are a new user, click on the sign up button at the top-right corner of the screen:
- Enter your registered email address and password. You can also sign in using your Google account or Apple ID, or by entering a one-time login code:
- If you are a new user, create a Nord Account by entering your email address and other required information:
- After completing the above steps, you will be prompted to open the NordVPN app. Agree to always allow Nord Account and grant access to the app, and press the open NordVPN button:
- After a successful login, you will be introduced to the main NordVPN application window:
Connecting to servers
The quick connect button in the top-right corner will automatically connect you to a server recommended by our smart algorithm.
Connecting to a specific server
To connect to a specific server, click on the search field in the top-left corner of the app. Enter a country, a category, or a specific server number (e.g., Canada #1224) to find what you need.
Connecting to a specific country
All servers in the left sidebar are sorted by country and specialty.
To connect to a specialty server, hover over one of the categories under Specialty Servers, and click on the three-dot menu to select a country:
To connect to a specific country, simply click on it:
Connecting using the auto-connect feature
Use the auto-connect feature, located in the settings, to connect automatically to a selected country, untrusted, or trusted networks.
NordVPN features
Threat Protection Pro™
Threat Protection Pro™ is a special NordVPN feature that automatically blocks ads, trackers, and malicious URLs. When you visit a website known for scamming people, this feature displays an in-browser alert to warn you about possible fraud. Threat Protection Pro™ also scans downloads for malware, checks your apps for security vulnerabilities, and lets you decide if you want to delete the malware-ridden files. Available with selected NordVPN plans, this feature can work without an active VPN connection.
Dark Web Monitor
Dark Web Monitor scans the internet for any credential leaks associated with your registered NordVPN e-mail address.
Statistics
Statistics show you more information about your connection.
Settings
The settings tab displays the app settings.
Quick Help
Here, you can find connection logs, be directed to our Support Center, and email customer support.
Alternatively, the help button can be located in the top status bar once the connection is established:
NordVPN settings
General
The general tab has the following features:
- Auto launch when the computer starts — toggle to open the NordVPN app automatically every time you turn your device on.
- VPN Protocol — will let you choose from 3 different connection protocols (OpenVPN UDP, OpenVPN TCP, and NordLynx).
- Post-quantum encryption - protects your VPN connection against potential quantum computer attacks.
- Share analytics data — makes NordVPN better by sending us aggregated, anonymous data.
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Stay invisible on a local network - keeps your device invisible on a local network when connected to a VPN.
Auto-connect
The auto-connect tab features the following functions:
- When using an untrusted network— toggle to automatically connect to a network that is not added to a Trusted network list.
- Connect to — select a specific country from the list.
- The current network — shows the network you are currently connected to.
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Trusted network — you won't be automatically connected to a VPN while on a trusted Wi-Fi network.
Kill Switch
Kill Switch prevents unprotected access to the internet when your VPN connection accidentally drops.
DNS
DNS ensures tighter security and privacy for your traffic. You can configure your device to use different DNS addresses.
Appearance
Appearance settings let you add an application to your dock, menu bar, or both and choose between dark and light modes.
Refer a friend
The Refer a Friend tab provides you with your personal referral link and instructions on how to refer NordVPN to your friends.
Apps
The apps tab introduces other Nord Security products.
Account
The account section shows your NordVPN profile and subscription information. Here, you’ll also find links to NordVPN's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
