What is NordVPN’s Meshnet Feature? Full Guide

NordVPN’s Meshnet tool offers an attractive proposition: what if you could build your own decentralized VPN network, using your phone and laptop?

That’s the promise, but does it deliver? 

Short answer: yes! But there are some technical considerations you need to make. 

So, in this quick guide, we’ll break down how Meshnet works and when to use it. We’ll also answer your biggest questions – like, can Meshnet replace a VPN?

Let’s get stuck in. 

What is NordVPN’s Meshnet?

Most internet networks, like your home WiFi, rely on a central server to monitor and control every user’s data traffic. This can create significant performance and privacy issues. 

A VPN works differently. Your data is trafficked through a vast global network of secure servers. While much better, you’re still relying on external servers, and your VPN provider needs to manage everything for you. 

With Meshnet, NordVPN has gone two steps further. You can now create a secure, private network using up to 60 devices as P2P servers. You don’t need to rely on someone else's network, servers, or security. 

Instead, your computer or phone works as a server within your Meshnet network. Every additional device you add to the network works as an additional server. You can then share resources (such as your bandwidth and processing power), send files across the network, and much more. 

All traffic within your Meshnet network is encrypted using Nord’s proprietary NordLynx protocol and the 256-bit AES standard (unbreakable encryption used by banks, governments, militaries, and spy agencies). Plus, each device in the network gets a dedicated IP address (different from your actual IP). 

So, what’s the benefit of all this? 

We’ll go deeper into why you should use Meshnet. For now, just know it provides a fast, secure, private network for up to 60 devices. Ideal for gaming, torrenting, and sensitive work shared between a small but distributed team. 

Setting up Meshnet: Step-by-step guide 

Setting Up Meshnet is a breeze, even if you’re not a tech whiz. It’s available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux devices. 

(BTW, although the Meshnet feature is free, you'll need an active NordVPN subscription. Don’t worry. NordVPN is one of the cheapest VPNs available.)

Here's the simple setup process:

That's it! With just a few simple steps, you've unlocked a world of possibilities with Meshnet.

If devices aren't connecting, double-check that Meshnet is enabled on all devices and that they're logged into the same NordVPN account with a working internet connection. If issues persist, try restarting the NordVPN app or device or contact NordVPN’s support team.

Read our complete NordVPN review to see how Meshnet fits into its tool stack. 

Should you use Meshnet?

Meshnet isn't just about connecting devices. It unlocks a new level of security, privacy, and flexibility for your digital life. 

Here’s why we like it: 

1. Enhanced security

Meshnet is designed with security at its core. Its decentralized structure eliminates the single point of vulnerability common in traditional networks. 

Instead of relying on a central server that hackers could target, Meshnet spreads your data across multiple devices, making compromising far more difficult. On top of that, AES-256 encryption scrambles your data, rendering it unreadable to any unauthorized users.

2. Improved privacy

Meshnet gives you back control of your data by masking your IP address and routing your traffic through other devices on the network. This means websites, advertisers, and even your internet provider will have a harder time tracking your online activity, allowing you to browse, stream, and communicate without feeling like you're constantly being watched.

3. Bypassing restrictions

Tired of being told, "This content is not available in your region"? Meshnet can help you break free from those frustrating geo-restrictions. 

By connecting to a device within your Meshnet network located in a different country, you can "borrow" its IP address and access content otherwise blocked. It's like having a digital teleportation device for your internet connection, allowing you to explore the web without limitations.

This makes Meshnet great for accessing every Netflix library from anywhere in the world. 

4. Virtual local network

Geographical boundaries shouldn't limit gaming and collaborating with friends. Meshnet lets you create virtual LAN (Local Area Network) parties, connecting your devices as if you were all in the same room, even when you're miles apart. 

This makes coordinating game nights easier and ensures smoother gameplay with reduced latency and lag. It's the perfect solution for keeping your gaming crew connected, collaborating on projects in real-time, or simply hanging out virtually with friends, no matter where you are.

Use cases for NordVPN Meshnet

Meshnet is a versatile tool that can transform how you work, play, and connect. Let's explore some of the most exciting ways this technology is used today.

1. Remote work

For remote workers, Meshnet provides a secure tunnel to your work network, allowing you to access files, applications, and servers as if you were sitting in the office. 

No more worrying about unsecured public Wi-Fi or complex VPN configurations. Meshnet simplifies remote work, providing a seamless and secure connection to all your essential resources.

2. Gaming

Gamers know that even a split-second of lag can mean the difference between victory and defeat. 

Meshnet gives you a competitive edge by creating private gaming networks, minimizing latency, and ensuring smooth, lag-free gameplay with your friends. It's like having your own private, high-speed gaming arena, no matter where you or your teammates are. 

3. File sharing

You can share large files (up to 1,000 simultaneously), collaborate on documents, or simply exchange photos and videos with friends and family without uploading your data to a potentially vulnerable cloud platform. Your data stays yours and moves swiftly and securely between your devices.

4. Bypassing Netflix account sharing ban

Netflix's crackdown on account sharing has frustrated many users, limiting access to devices within the subscriber's IP address range. NordVPN can access Netflix, but Meshnet provides a more clever workaround.

By routing your traffic through the subscriber's IP address, Meshnet tricks Netflix into believing you're in the same location, allowing you to bypass the ban and continue sharing your account with friends and family, regardless of their location.

5. IoT connectivity

The Internet of Things (IoT) is growing rapidly, but traditional networks often struggle to keep up with the demands of numerous connected devices. Meshnet solves this by allowing for secure and efficient communication between IoT devices without a centralized hub. 

This enhances security and lets you easily access and control your smart home devices, even when you're not home.

NordVPN’s Meshnet: Worth it in 2024? 

Meshnet is not for everyone. 

NordVPN’s default VPN tools and features already make it one of the top three VPNs in the world.

But if you need a completely closed-off network that’s fast, decentralized, and delivers seamless connections between a small team – it's worth exploring. 

NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all new plans. So, you can try out Meshnet (and all its other features) risk-free for up to a month. 

NordVPN Meshnet FAQs