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I can't install or update the NordVPN app on Windows

Problem

You encounter a problem during the NordVPN Windows app installation or update process.

Common symptoms

  • You encounter errors during the installation process.
  • The installer shows messages like “NordVPN failed to install” or “Something went wrong.”
  • The installer launches, but the installation never finishes.
  • The app still shows an outdated version after attempting to update.

Troubleshooting steps

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

  • Check if your Operating System supports the NordVPN app.
  • Disable “S mode”:
    NOTE: Disabling S mode is irreversible, but you can’t install NordVPN with it enabled.

    1. Open "Settings."
    2. Click “System.”
    3. Click “Activation.”
    4. Under “Switch to Windows 10/11 Home,” click “Go to the Store.”
    5. Follow the prompts.
    6. Click on “Get” to complete the process.
       
  • Temporarily turn off or uninstall your antivirus to see if it is blocking or interfering with the NordVPN app. 
  • Right-click the NordVPN installer and select “Run as administrator.”
  • 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.
         
  • 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. Once installation is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes.
       
  • Repair .NET on your Windows device:
     
    1. Download the official Microsoft repair tool.
    2. Right-click it and press “Run as administrator.”
    3. Click “OK” when it asks for permissions.
    4. Click “Next” and “Finish” once prompted.
    5. Restart your device.
       
  • Reinstall .NET on your Windows device:
     
    1. Open the control panel by pressing the “Windows” and “S” keys together and writing “Control panel.”
    2. Click “Programs.”
    3. Click “Programs and Features.”
    4. Select “Turn Windows features on or off.”
    5. Take note of the checked .NET versions and uncheck them.
    6. Restart your computer.
    7. Repeat steps 1-4.
    8. Check the .NET versions previously uninstalled.
    9. Restart your device again.
       
  • 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 has already been installed).
    4. Restart your device.
       
  • Reinstall the NordVPN app:
    NOTE: Use this solution only if you are not able to update the application.
     
    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.

Additional tips

  • Ensure your device has a stable internet connection throughout the installation process.
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