Why do the NordVPN apps now require browser logins?
NordVPN has recently changed the login process across all their apps to now require a sign-in through a web browser rather than directly through the app. In this post, we will look at the options for signing into NordVPN without browser login and alternative VPN providers.
NordVPN has made this change to enable users to sign in using Nord Account. Nord Account links all the Nord services into one account and was put in place to simplify sign-in across the apps and also allow sign-up through third-party services such as Google and Apple.
While for most people this won’t be a problem in more restrictive countries connecting the website of a VPN provider can be a problem. This login page is also easier to block connections to than the previous method.
This change has left some customers upset about potential security and privacy issues with this process. Having to open a web page prior to connecting to the VPN software requires you to connect to the Nord website over your ISP connection.
Is it possible to sign into NordVPN without browser login?
Unfortunately for users of NordVPN who are worried about these changes, there are no real workarounds to this problem. As signing into the service is fully controlled by Nord they have been able to remove the old sign-in process and disable app versions using the old process.
Oldest supported versions of NordVPN Apps
As of April 2022, Nord has disabled any versions of the app older than in the below table.
| Windows | 6.37.5 |
| Android | 4.16.4 |
| macOS | 6.1.3 |
| iOS | 6.0.0 |
| Linux | 3.12.0 |
Set up NordVPN on your router
One potential workaround for using NordVPN without a browser login would be to connect using your internet router. When connecting to NordVPN on your router log-in is completed using a service username and password rather than Nord Account.
This option is limited to people who have a router on the supported list which includes:
- ASUS WRT
- Mikrotik
- OPNsense
- OpenWRT
- pfSense
- Draytek
- EdgeRouter
If your router is not on this or was provided by your ISP it is unlikely that it is supported but you can change it on the Nord provided list of unsupported routers.
Using another Internet Connection
If your router is not on the list of supported routers the only option would be to use another internet connection to sign in. While this process doesn’t avoid signing in through a web browser it does avoid linking your home connection to Nord.
Once the app is signed in on a device it will remain signed in with only infrequently requiring reconnection.
Can you use NordVPN without the app?
Yes, NordVPN is available as a browser plugin for Google Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. Using these plugins is not a workaround for this issue though as the sign-in process still requires using a Nord Account.
Alternative VPN Providers
While we think NordVPN is one of the better VPN providers on the market people who have security and privacy concerns may be looking to switch providers. Below we provide a short overview of some of the more privacy-focused VPN providers.
Mullvad VPN
Mullvad is a privacy-focused VPN provider that is a great alternative to NordVPN. Signing up for Mullvad doesn’t require any personal information including email address or phone number. Payment can even be made in cash or cryptocurrencies to avoid any link back to your identity.
Mullvad is priced at a flat rate of €5 per month with no discounts or offers for long terms.
Proton VPN
Proton VPN is another privacy-focused VPN provider. Based in Switzerland they offer a high-speed service backed by Swiss laws to protect your privacy.
Proton offers both a free and paid-for service but unlike most other free VPN providers they don’t sell your browsing history or inject ads. The free service is subsidized by the users of the paid service.
Proton VPN is available for €9.99 a month with discounts available for 1 or 2-year plans.
