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  4. I can't launch the NordVPN app, or it crashes

I can't launch the NordVPN app, or it crashes on Windows

Problem

You experience frequent crashes when trying to launch or use the NordVPN Windows app.

Common symptoms

  • The NordVPN app refuses to launch.
  • The NordVPN app launches, but shuts down immediately.
  • Your screen freezes or becomes unresponsive when launching the NordVPN app.
  • You see a blank or black screen upon launching the NordVPN app.
  • The NordVPN app fails to load beyond the initial logo or loading screen.
  • The NordVPN app launches but crashes frequently (especially when connecting to a server).

Troubleshooting steps

NOTE: Check if the issue has been resolved after each step.

  • If you have an antivirus, ensure NordVPN is on the exclusions list.
  • Temporarily turn off or uninstall your antivirus to see if it is blocking or interfering with the NordVPN app.
  • Reset the application settings:
     
    1. Press the “Windows” and “S” keys together on your keyboard to open Windows search.
    2. Enter “Diagnostics.”
    3. Open “NordVPN Diagnostics.” 
    4. Click “Yes” when a dialog box appears asking for privileges.
    5. Click “Reset app.”
       
  • Reinstall the NordVPN app:
     
    1. Go to the “Settings” app on your Windows device.
    2. Click “Apps.”
    3. Click “Apps & features.”
    4. Select the NordVPN app.
    5. Click “Uninstall.”
    6. Restart your device.
    7. Install the NordVPN app again from our website.
  • Reinstall the Latest C++ redistributable:
     
    1. Choose the following link to download for your system:
       
    2. Download and run the installer. 
    3. Click “Install” (or “Repair” if it is already installed).
    4. Restart your device.
       
  • Check if there are any corrupt files on your Windows device:
     
    1. Press the “Windows” and “S” keys together on your keyboard to open Windows search.
    2. Type “Command Prompt” in the search field.
    3. Right-click on the ”Command Prompt” result.
    4. Select “Run as administrator.”
    5. Run the following command:
       
      sfc /scannow

       

  • Update .NET on your Windows device:
     
    1. Choose the correct installer for your system:

    2. Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
    3. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

  • Update your Windows operating system to the latest available version:
     
    • Windows 11:
       
      1. Click “Start” on your Windows taskbar.
      2. Click “Settings” (or a gear icon).
      3. Click “Windows update.”
      4. Click “Check for Windows updates.”
      5. If there are any updates available, select “Download & install.”
      6. Restart your device to apply the updates
         
    • Windows 10:
      NOTE: After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates via “Windows update,” technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. It is recommended that you switch to Windows 11.
       
      1. Click “Start” on your Windows taskbar.
      2. Click “Settings” (or a gear icon).
      3. Click “Update & Security.”
      4. Click “Windows Update.”
      5. Click “Check for Windows updates.”
      6. If there are any updates available, select “Download & install.” 
      7. Restart your device to apply the updates.

Additional tips

  • Check if the issue occurs on other devices.
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