NordVPN Plus: Features and Setup Guide for UK Users

In an era where online privacy is increasingly important, especially in the UK with laws like the Investigatory Powers Act 2016, many users seek reliable VPN services. NordVPN Plus is a bundled subscription that includes the core NordVPN service, NordPass password manager, and Threat Protection Pro. This guide examines its practical applications for UK residents and expatriates, focusing on streaming, security, and everyday use.

With over 6,400 servers in 111 countries, including multiple locations in the UK, NordVPN maintains a no-logs policy verified by independent audits from Deloitte and PwC. For UK users, this means protection against data retention requirements under UK jurisdiction. The Plus plan adds tools for managing credentials and blocking threats, making it suitable for comprehensive online security.

This article covers key features, UK-specific benefits, pricing, setup, and more, based on official specifications as of 2024.

What is NordVPN Plus?

NordVPN Plus is an upgraded plan from NordVPN, priced higher than the Standard option but including additional services. It comprises:

• NordVPN: The VPN service with WireGuard (NordLynx), OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols.
• NordPass: A password manager with autofill, secure sharing, and biometric login.
• Threat Protection Pro: Blocks malware, trackers, and phishing sites at the network level.

Unlike the Standard plan, Plus does not include NordLocker (cloud storage) or NordVPN Meshnet (private peer-to-peer networking), which are in the Complete plan. For most UK users focused on privacy and streaming, Plus provides balanced coverage without excess features.

The service is based in Panama, outside the UK and EU, which aligns with GDPR preferences for data processors but avoids UK surveillance obligations.

Key Features Relevant to UK Users

UK internet users face unique challenges, including geo-restricted content and heightened surveillance. NordVPN Plus addresses these practically:

• UK Servers: Over 440 servers in London, Manchester, and other cities ensure low-latency connections for local services.
• Streaming Support: Compatible with BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, and UK Netflix libraries. NordVPN’s dedicated streaming servers optimize for unblocking.
• Privacy Tools: Double VPN and Onion Over VPN routes traffic through multiple servers or Tor for extra anonymity. RAM-only servers erase data on reboot.
• Speed: NordLynx protocol averages 500-950 Mbps on UK connections, per independent tests by AV-Test.

NordPass integrates with UK banking apps for secure logins, while Threat Protection Pro scans downloads, useful for torrenting on P2P-friendly servers.

Streaming UK Content Abroad with NordVPN Plus

For Brits abroad or travellers, accessing home content is straightforward. Connect to a UK server to view:

• BBC iPlayer: Requires a UK IP; NordVPN works reliably on optimised servers.
• Channel 4 and My5: Geo-blocks bypassed without buffering issues on Gigabit connections.
• Sky Go and Now TV: Supported, though occasional IP refreshes may be needed.

In tests, switching to a London server loads iPlayer in under 10 seconds with HD quality. Netflix UK maintains 4K streaming on compatible setups. Note that streaming services update blocks periodically, so check NordVPN’s status page for real-time compatibility.

UK users at home can use non-UK servers to access international libraries, like US Netflix, while complying with service terms.

Privacy and Security Under UK Laws

The UK’s Investigatory Powers Act mandates data retention by ISPs, prompting VPN use. NordVPN Plus counters this:

• No-Logs Policy: Audited in 2022 and 2023; no user activity or IP logs stored.
• Encryption: AES-256 with perfect forward secrecy.
• Kill Switch: CyberSec and app kill switch prevent leaks.

For GDPR-conscious users, NordVPN publishes transparency reports and supports warrant canaries. Threat Protection Pro adds ad and tracker blocking, reducing fingerprinting risks on sites like Google or Facebook.

NordPass uses XChaCha20 encryption and zero-knowledge architecture, ideal for storing NHS app or gov.uk credentials securely.

Pricing and Plans for UK Customers

NordVPN Plus is billed in GBP via the UK site. As of October 2024:

Plan Length	Monthly Cost	Total (GBP)	Savings
1 month	£11.99	£11.99	-
1 year	£6.33	£71.88	47%
2 years	£3.09	£83.40	74%

Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. Payment options: Credit/debit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, cash vouchers, and cryptocurrencies. UK VAT is included in displayed prices.

Compared to rivals like ExpressVPN (£6.67/month on annual), NordVPN Plus offers more features at a lower long-term rate.

How to Set Up NordVPN Plus in the UK

1. Sign Up: Visit nordvpn.com, select Plus plan, enter UK postcode for localised pricing.
2. Download: Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Fire TV, and routers.
3. Install and Login: Use provided credentials; enable NordLynx for speed.
4. UK-Specific Settings:
   • Quick Connect to UK server.
   • Enable Threat Protection Pro in settings.
   • Set NordPass browser extension for autofill.
5. Test: Check IP via whatismyipaddress.com; stream BBC iPlayer to verify.

Router setup (e.g., on ASUS or DD-WRT) covers all devices. Mobile apps support split tunnelling for UK banking apps.

FAQ

Does NordVPN Plus work reliably with BBC iPlayer?

Yes, NordVPN Plus consistently unblocks BBC iPlayer using UK-optimised servers. Users report HD streaming without interruptions, though refreshing the server occasionally helps during peak times.

Is NordVPN Plus suitable for torrenting in the UK?

NordVPN Plus allows P2P on designated servers, including UK locations. It includes port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxy for improved speeds, with full leak protection.

Where is NordVPN Plus based, and does it comply with UK GDPR?

NordVPN is headquartered in Panama. It complies with GDPR as a data processor, with EU representatives for queries, and undergoes regular security audits.

Conclusion

NordVPN Plus serves UK users well with robust streaming access, privacy tools, and bundled utilities at a practical price point. Its UK server network, audited no-logs policy, and easy setup make it a solid choice for daily protection against surveillance and geo-blocks. Consider the 30-day trial to test compatibility with your needs. For families, the 10 simultaneous connections add value. Always review terms for streaming services to ensure compliance.

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