Norton Secure VPN Review in 2022

Many internet denizens are familiar with the Norton brand. It’s been around for a long time as an antivirus and online security company. Naturally, it was inevitable for it to release a VPN (Virtual Private Network) product as well.

In this Norton VPN review, we’ll have a look at how this service performs in typical VPN use cases and whether it’s worth getting. After all, the VPN industry is packed with numerous products. Therefore, customers might be tempted to opt for a provider with a familiar name.

Speed and performance

Norton VPN is as average as you can get in the VPN speed department. It uses the OpenVPN and IPSec tunneling protocols for connectivity, neither of which can compete against WireGuard or similar proprietary technologies. You can see how such services compare by glancing at our VPN speed test.

Meanwhile, server coverage is pretty good, although the number of available countries could be better. Norton VPN runs a network of 2000+ servers across 30+ countries. Disappointingly, there isn’t much information about the specifics of these servers – who owns them, are they bare-metal, how many locations are virtual, and whether there’s RAM-only technology.

Thus we can assume that Norton VPN is renting servers from third-party data centers and doesn’t offer any exceptional security practices.

Plans and pricing

Norton VPN offers a few pricing options, depending on how many devices you want to secure simultaneously. Naturally, annual subscriptions require full payment upfront but end up cheaper than monthly subscriptions if you use the product for an extended period of time.

There’s also the option to try out the VPN without commitment by grabbing a 7-day free trial. However, there’s a caveat – you’ll need to provide a valid payment method. Norton VPN accepts credit cards, PayPal, or Google Pay. Lastly, annual subscriptions are insured with a generous 60-day money-back guarantee.

Security and privacy

With such everlasting experience in the cybersecurity industry, you’d expect Norton VPN to be on top of the secure VPN food chain. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. This service is barren of noteworthy security features and leaves much to be desired.

Of course, it does have the standard features that everyone grew to expect of VPN software – a kill switch, AES-256 encryption, and an absence of IP or DNS leaks.

Other than that, you’ll see these options when starting up the application:

• Auto-Connect. As the name suggests, this feature ensures that the VPN connection is enabled automatically when the device is turned on.
• Kill Switch. A VPN kill switch disconnects your internet connection to prevent IP leaks if the VPN tunnel falters.
• Ad Tracker Blocking. Although encryption makes your data secure from your ISP, digital advertisers can still track you through browser cookies. As such, it’s great when a VPN can block such measures.
• Split Tunnel. Commonly known as split tunneling, this feature allows you to customize which apps should go through the VPN tunnel and which need to circumvent it. With Norton VPN, this is only available on Windows and Android devices.

Norton VPN device compatibility

A modern household has a technological device in practically every nook and corner. However, no internet-connected device is immune to intrusions from cybercriminals. This is why it’s paramount that a VPN would be compatible with as many devices as possible. At the very least, it should be manually configurable on routers to conveniently secure all devices on the network.

It’s disappointing when a VPN offers abysmal device compatibility, as it makes the service less capable of securing your data. Such is the case with Norton VPN. It only has dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Furthermore, it’s impossible to configure the service manually on other devices, setting the service back even further behind its competition.

Is Norton VPN good for streaming?

If security isn’t a top priority, you likely need a VPN for getting around geographical restrictions and streaming. It’s common knowledge that streaming services like Netflix provide different content libraries around the globe.

Alternatively, some platforms, for example, HBO Max, are strictly blocked in most parts of the world. Whatever the case, a VPN can change your location and grant you access to movies and TV shows that aren’t typically available in your region.

Sadly, Norton VPN let us down in this category as well. At best, it could unlock Netflix US. Although it’s a coveted library, customers would appreciate other regions as well. For example, access to Turkish Netflix is needed to watch Harry Potter movies on Netflix.

Other streaming services like Amazon Prime Video or BBC iPlayer were a no-go as well. Overall, we suggest picking a different VPN for streaming, such as NordVPN.

Norton VPN for torrenting

P2P activities are another frequent VPN use case. That’s because some countries restrict torrenting due to its association with digital piracy. However, file-sharing isn’t always used for copyright infringement and thus shouldn’t be blocked entirely.

Norton VPN disagrees with the last statement and restricts P2P traffic on its servers. As such, you’ll have no luck getting around torrenting restrictions by your ISP with this service. You’ll get better results when opting for a more reliable VPN for torrenting.

Customer support overview

With so many VPN uses cases, you’re bound to come across some issues. It could be related to server performance, unblocking content, or compatibility with different devices. Whatever the case, it’s good to have knowledgeable customer support agents available.

Norton VPN stands out in this regard as it provides an exceptional variety of methods of reaching out to customer support. For example, you can get assistance via live chat, phone call, email, or through written guides on the knowledge base online. Most importantly, everything is available 24/7.

Alternative VPN options

After a quick overview of Norton VPN, it’s crystal clear that the service is subpar compared to other VPN providers. Therefore, here are a few VPN suggestions in the same price range that offer significantly more benefits.

1. NordVPN. Unsurprisingly, we recommend not skimping on digital security and getting the #1 VPN service on the market. Starting at $3.09/month, NordVPN provides unparalleled protection, air-tight privacy, and exceptional device compatibility.
2. Surfshark. If funds are tight, consider Surfshark VPN. It costs $2.30/month, grants unlimited simultaneous connections, excellent streaming performance, and reliable security features. Plus, you can upgrade your subscription to include protection against viruses as well.
3. VyprVPN. This Swiss-based VPN is so cheap you might mistake it for being free. However, the minuscule $8.33/month price includes the WireGuard tunneling protocol, reliable geo-unblocking and streaming abilities, and top-notch privacy.

Conclusion: should you get Norton VPN?

Many would-be customers could end up getting fooled by the familiarity of the Norton brand. Unfortunately, Norton VPN is a below-average VPN service and should be avoided in favor of other VPN providers. It underperforms in speed, device compatibility, and even security features. As such, you’re better off subscribing to a well-known and reliable VPN service.

Do you still think that Norton VPN is worth a try? Share your thoughts in the comments section!

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FAQ

Is Norton VPN good?

For its price, Norton VPN isn’t as good as other VPNs currently available. It’s not as fast, doesn’t have a lot of security features, isn’t compatible with a wide variety of devices, and can’t be used for streaming or torrenting.

Can I put Norton VPN on my router?

Norton VPN does not provide manual configuration files. As such, it’s impossible to set up a router with a Norton VPN connection. You need to get a router-compatible VPN if you want to secure your home network.

Which VPN is the best?

The best VPN currently available is NordVPN. It’s affordable, compatible with a wide array of devices, provides strong security, exceptional privacy, and reliable streaming performance.