Switching protocol to OpenVPN UDP or TCP

Introduction

In this article, you will learn how to change your protocol to OpenVPN UDP or OpenVPN TCP.

Additional information

Some NordVPN server categories, found under the Specialty Servers section, are only available when using the OpenVPN UDP or OpenVPN TCP protocols.

Currently, these categories include Double VPN and some of our obfuscated servers. This article provides instructions on how to change your connection protocol on various operating systems. Before you begin, we encourage you to read our article on the difference between TCP and UDP.

Here's what to do

Windows/macOS

Open the NordVPN app and click on the gear icon.
Click "General" if you're on macOS or "Connection and security" if you are on Windows.
Click on the currently set protocol on the right, and you will see a list of options.
Click either the OpenVPN (TCP) or OpenVPN (UDP) protocol.

Android/iOS

Open the NordVPN app and tap on the profile icon on the right:
Tap "Settings."
Tap "VPN protocol."
Select either the OpenVPN (TCP) or OpenVPN (UDP) protocol.

Android TV

On the main page of the NordVPN app, scroll on the left until you select the cogwheel to access "Settings."
Select "Protocol."
Select "OpenVPN (TCP)" or "OpenVPN (UDP)."

Linux GUI/CLI

GUI:
1. Open the NordVPN GUI app and click on settings:
2. Click "VPN connection."
3. Select either the OpenVPN (TCP) or OpenVPN (UDP) protocol.
Terminal:
1. Open the Terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T shortcut).
2. Enable OpenVPN with the following command:

nordvpn set technology openvpn

Type the following command to select OpenVPN (TCP):

set protocol tcp

Type the following command to select OpenVPN (UDP):

nordvpn set protocol udp

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