Complete Guide to NordVPN DNS Setup and Troubleshooting

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NordVPN DNS setup is a crucial step in securing your online presence. You can manually set up DNS on your router to use NordVPN's DNS servers.

To access NordVPN's DNS servers, you can use the following IP addresses: 103.86.96.100 and 103.86.99.100. These IP addresses are specific to NordVPN's DNS service.

Setting up DNS on your router can be a bit tricky, but it's a great way to ensure that all devices on your network are using NordVPN's secure DNS servers.

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NordVPN Basics

NordVPN is a popular virtual private network (VPN) service that helps protect your online identity and data.

It has over 5500 servers in 59 countries, which is a significant network for accessing geo-restricted content.

NordVPN offers a user-friendly interface and apps for various devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

Their VPN protocol is based on OpenVPN, which is considered secure and reliable.

NordVPN also offers a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops.

Their no-logs policy ensures that your online activities remain private and anonymous.

NordVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test their service risk-free.

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Setting Up NordVPN

Credit: youtube.com, Smart DNS vs VPN Explained | NordVPN

To set up NordVPN, you'll need to download and install the app on your device.

You can download the NordVPN app from the official website or from the app store on your device.

The app is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, so you can use it on most of your devices.

Once you've downloaded and installed the app, launch it and sign up for a NordVPN account if you haven't already.

You can choose from a variety of subscription plans, including a one-month, one-year, or two-year plan, as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee.

After signing up, you'll need to choose a VPN server location.

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Setting Up for Windows

Setting up NordVPN on your Windows device is a straightforward process. You'll need to configure your DNS settings to get started.

First, you can change your DNS on Windows by going to settings, then the connection tab, and turning on custom DNS. From there, click on the drop-down arrow and input the DNS addresses 103.86.96.100 and 103.86.99.100.

Credit: youtube.com, How to setup a VPN for Windows 10 and 11 | NordVPN Tutorial

Alternatively, you can also change your DNS addresses via Windows settings. To do so, go to Control Panel, then Network and Internet, and finally Network and Sharing Center.

To set up Smart DNS on Windows, you'll need to follow these steps: Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. From there, right-click on your active network connection and select Properties.

Next, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses, enter the Smart DNS addresses provided by NordVPN, and click OK.

Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up NordVPN on Windows:

  1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
  2. Right-click on your active network connection and select Properties.
  3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties.
  4. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses, enter the Smart DNS addresses provided by NordVPN, and click OK.

Setting Up macOS

To set up NordVPN on your macOS, you'll need to make a few tweaks to your network settings. First, go to System Preferences and select Network.

Select your active network, whether it's WiFi or Ethernet, and click on Advanced. This will open up a new window with more options.

Credit: youtube.com, How to Install and Set up NordVPN on macOS

Switch to the DNS tab and click the + button to add the NordVPN Smart DNS addresses. You can add both primary and secondary DNS addresses, but for now, let's focus on adding the primary one, which is 103.86.99.103.

Click OK to save the changes and then Apply to finalize the setup. Once you've completed these steps, you should be able to use NordVPN's SmartDNS on your macOS.

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Setting Up TVs

To set up your TV with NordVPN's Smart DNS, you'll first need to activate the service from your NordVPN account. Log into your NordVPN account on the official website and navigate to the 'Dashboard' to select 'NordVPN settings'. From there, find the Smart DNS section and select 'Activate' to receive a Smart DNS address.

To configure your TV, start by navigating to the network settings. The exact path may vary depending on your TV brand and model, so consult your user manual or the support website of the television manufacturer for specific instructions.

Once you've reached the DNS settings, select 'Enter manually' and type in the Smart DNS address you received from NordVPN. Save the settings and you're good to go!

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Setting Up for Gaming Consoles

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Setting up NordVPN on gaming consoles is a straightforward process. You'll need to access the network settings from the console's main menu.

To get started, select "Set Up Internet Connection" and choose "Use Wi-Fi" or "Use a LAN Cable" depending on your connection type. This will lead you to a series of settings that you'll need to configure.

Here's a step-by-step guide for popular gaming consoles:

Once you've changed your console's DNS addresses (primary: 103.86.99.103 / secondary: 103.86.96.103), feel free to return to its home screen and try using SmartDNS with any media streaming app.

Setting Up on Different Devices

Setting up NordVPN on different devices is a straightforward process. You just need to follow the steps specific to your device.

If you have a media streaming device that runs on Fire OS or Android TV, you can download NordVPN's fully-featured app from Amazon's or Google's App Store.

To use NordVPN's SmartDNS on media streaming devices that don't support VPNs natively, such as Apple TV, your media streaming device and the device you'll use to set up SmartDNS must be on the same network.

Credit: youtube.com, How to Add Devices to NordVPN

You'll need to access your Nord account on your computer or smartphone, provide your username and password, and then select 'NordVPN' on the left, in the 'Services' section, and click on 'Activate' in the 'SmartDNS' section.

On Apple TV, you'll need to navigate to Settings > General > Network > Wi-Fi > (select your network), then pick Configure DNS > Manual, and enter the primary (103.86.99.103) and secondary DNS (103.86.96.103) addresses.

Here are the steps to set up NordVPN on different devices:

Using NordVPN

NordVPN is a popular VPN service that offers a user-friendly interface and robust security features. Its DNS servers are located in multiple countries around the world.

To use NordVPN, simply download and install the app on your device, then sign up for a subscription. You can choose from various plans, including a free trial.

Once you're connected to a NordVPN server, your internet traffic will be routed through its DNS servers, which can help protect your online identity and location.

Expand your knowledge: Nordvpn Dns Server

Setting Up and Using DNS

Credit: youtube.com, How to use SmartDNS on LG TV | NordVPN

Setting up and using DNS with NordVPN is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your online security and streaming experience.

Changing DNS servers provides you with increased security as well as speed. With default DNS, you may be subject to DNS hijacking, a cyberattack where attackers redirect or alter DNS settings to send users to fake websites or malicious servers.

NordVPN's SmartDNS works on various devices, including game consoles like Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. To set it up on your game console, you'll need to be on the same network as the device you'll use to activate SmartDNS.

To activate SmartDNS on your game console, follow these steps: 1) go to your game console's settings app, 2) find the DNS-related settings, 3) select "Manual" and enter the DNS addresses provided by NordVPN: 103.86.99.103 and 103.86.96.103.

You can also set up SmartDNS on your Windows or macOS device. On Windows, go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings, then right-click on your active network connection and select Properties. On macOS, go to System Preferences > Network, select your active network, and click on Advanced, then switch to the DNS tab and add the NordVPN Smart DNS addresses.

NordVPN's SmartDNS is a key component of its SmartPlay feature, which allows you to unblock and watch any streaming service with just a few clicks.

Unblocking Media Streaming Services

Credit: youtube.com, Is NordVPN Good for Streaming in 2024? 🎞️ What Can it Unblock?🔓

NordVPN's SmartDNS can unblock and watch any streaming service out there.

To unblock media streaming services, you can use NordVPN's SmartPlay feature, which is a combination of its VPN and SmartDNS features. It works seamlessly in the background without any fine-tuning.

NordVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, DAZN, BBC iPlayer, and countless other services. You can access those streaming services from outside the US.

However, Nord's SmartDNS only works with a limited selection of streaming services, including Netflix's originals, HBO Max, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, ABC GO, and FOX Now / Sports Go / Showtime.

If you're having trouble unblocking a streaming service, try re-installing your apps and restarting your device. This will force your streaming apps to "read" the location of NordVPN's SmartDNS servers.

Here are some popular streaming services that NordVPN's SmartDNS can unblock:

  • Netflix
  • Hulu
  • HBO Max
  • Disney Plus
  • Amazon Prime Video
  • DAZN
  • BBC iPlayer

Note that you may need to enter the primary and secondary DNS numbers (103.86.99.103 and 103.86.96.103) on your media streaming device to use NordVPN's SmartDNS.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

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If you're experiencing issues with NordVPN's SmartDNS, there are some quick actions to take to determine the cause of the problem.

First, check if your device is using an IPv6 address. NordVPN SmartDNS doesn't work on IPv6 addresses, so if you have one, you won't be able to use the service.

To check your IP address, you can use a website that detects IPv6 addresses. If it says "No IPv6 Address Detected", that means NordVPN SmartDNS should work fine.

Next, verify that you've entered the DNS addresses correctly. Check your DNS configuration to make sure everything is set up properly.

Restarting your device can also resolve many connectivity issues. Give it a try and see if that solves the problem.

If you're still having trouble, flushing your DNS cache can help update your network configuration. Just search for specific instructions based on your device to learn how to do it.

Credit: youtube.com, NordVPN Connection Problem: 5 Easy Ways to Solve It! ✅

If none of these steps work, don't hesitate to contact NordVPN's 24/7 customer support for help troubleshooting any persistent issues.

Here are the troubleshooting steps summarized:

Performance and Features

NordVPN's SmartDNS is a game-changer for streaming services on devices that aren't compatible with VPNs.

It's ultra-fast and doesn't introduce slowdowns like encryption does with VPNs. You'll still get to stream in 4K even with a 20-25Mbps Web connection.

NordVPN's SmartDNS servers are only found in the US, but the speed of your Web connection will be very fast in all cases, even when connecting from the opposite side of the world.

The simplicity of setting up and using SmartDNS is a major advantage - all you need to do is visit your device's settings and adjust Internet-related options.

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Speed & Performance

NordVPN is one of the fastest VPN services out there, thanks to its high level of customization. You can switch between VPN protocols and pick any of Nord's 5,000+ standard and specialized servers to fine-tune your VPN connection.

Credit: youtube.com, How to get Faster Internet speed when you change a simple setting

This customization allows you to reach speeds with minimal throttling. However, even with in-depth customization of Nord's settings, you'll never reach the same incredibly fast speeds as you'll get with NordVPN's SmartDNS.

SmartDNS isn't a VPN, so it doesn't use a VPN protocol to route your data, nor does it encrypt your data. This eliminates the "overhead" that slows down your Web connection. As a result, your Web connection's speed won't take a hit, even if you connect from the opposite side of the world.

You can expect ultra-fast performance with SmartDNS, with no throttling or slowdowns. This means you can stream in 4K, even with a 20-25Mbps Web connection. In contrast, using a VPN with encryption can introduce slowdowns.

Here's a comparison of the speed benefits of SmartDNS and VPNs:

SmartDNS is also very simple to set up and use, requiring only a visit to your device's settings and adjustment of Internet-related options.

Media Streaming Capabilities

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NordVPN's SmartPlay is a powerful tool for media streaming, allowing you to unblock and watch any streaming service out there.

To get started, simply pick a server, and that's it - you're good to go. Based on my tests, NordVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, DAZN, BBC iPlayer, and countless other services.

You can access those streaming services from outside the US, and in some cases, you can even access different versions of the same service, like Netflix. Since its SmartDNS servers are in the US, you'll get to unblock only a handful of American media streaming services.

NordVPN's SmartPlay is actually a combination of its VPN and SmartDNS features, working seamlessly in the background without any fine-tuning. This means you can use individual VPN servers to unblock media streaming services, while also encrypting your data.

Here are some popular streaming services that NordVPN can unblock:

  • Netflix
  • Hulu
  • HBO Max
  • Disney Plus
  • Amazon Prime Video
  • DAZN
  • BBC iPlayer

If you have a media streaming device that runs on Fire OS or Android TV, you can use NordVPN's fully-featured app. However, if you have a device like Apple TV that doesn't support VPNs natively, you'll need to set up NordVPN's SmartDNS manually.

Security and Protection

Credit: youtube.com, How to perform a DNS leak test | NordVPN

NordVPN offers highly secure VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx.

These protocols are coupled with up to AES-256 NGE encryption, making your sensitive data nearly invisible online.

NordVPN's SmartDNS, on the other hand, doesn't offer encryption, so it's not suitable for sensitive activities.

SmartDNS is best used for media streaming and occasional website unblocking, where you don't need to protect your data.

With SmartDNS, NordVPN will start routing your data through its DNS servers without letting you pick a server, which is a limiting factor.

What Exactly Is?

SmartDNS is a process that changes your IP address and encrypts your incoming and outgoing data, making it look like you're somewhere else entirely.

NordVPN's SmartDNS doesn't work through an interface, so you won't find it in their apps. Instead, you rely on your device's settings to add a new DNS server and re-route your Web traffic through NordVPN's SmartDNS.

This approach is great for devices that don't support VPN software, such as smart TVs, media streaming devices, and game consoles. You can change your DNS settings on these devices to use NordVPN's SmartDNS.

Individual using a VPN application on a laptop at a desk in a modern office setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Individual using a VPN application on a laptop at a desk in a modern office setting.

One of the benefits of SmartDNS is that it doesn't affect your Web connection's speed, since there's no encryption involved. However, it's worth noting that NordVPN's SmartDNS only lets you unblock a limited number of streaming devices.

Here are some examples of devices that you can use with NordVPN's SmartDNS:

  • ABC GO
  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Disney Plus
  • Fox Now / Sports GO / News
  • Showtime
  • HBO Max
  • Netflix Originals

Security & Protection

NordVPN uses highly secure VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx.

These protocols are coupled with up to AES-256 NGE encryption, making your sensitive data virtually untrackable.

All three protocols are highly secure, giving you peace of mind when browsing the internet.

NordVPN's SmartDNS feature, on the other hand, doesn't offer encryption, making it unsuitable for sensitive tasks.

It's designed for media streaming and occasional website unblocking, where security isn't a top priority.

You can't choose a server when using SmartDNS, which is a notable limitation.

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Configuration and Settings

To configure your DNS on Windows, follow these steps: Go to settings, head to the connection tab, turn on custom DNS, click on the drop-down arrow and input the DNS addresses 103.86.96.100 and 103.86.99.100, and reconnect to the VPN.

Credit: youtube.com, Unlock Advanced Privacy: How to Use Custom DNS with NordVPN | Complete Guide

You can also change your DNS addresses via Windows settings. To do this, go to settings, head to the connection tab, and look for the custom DNS option. Make sure it's enabled and the correct DNS addresses are inputted.

On Android, you can change your DNS addresses by opening the NordVPN application, tapping on the shield icon, making sure Threat Protection is disabled, going to the profile page, going to the settings menu, tapping on the DNS option, selecting custom, entering 103.86.96.100, and tapping add.

To set up NordVPN SmartDNS on media streaming devices, make sure your device and the device you'll use to set up SmartDNS are on the same network. Then, use your computer or smartphone to access your Nord account, provide your username and password, and select 'NordVPN' on the left in the 'Services' section. On the right, click on 'Activate' in the 'SmartDNS' section.

Here are the steps to set up SmartDNS on media streaming devices:

  1. Your media streaming device and the device you'll use to set up SmartDNS must be on the same network.
  2. Use your computer or smartphone to access your Nord account and select 'NordVPN' on the left in the 'Services' section.
  3. Click on 'Activate' in the 'SmartDNS' section.
  4. Finish the rest of the procedure on your media streaming device.

For smart TVs, navigate to the network settings, find the DNS settings, and select 'Enter manually'. Type in the Smart DNS addresses you received from NordVPN and save the settings.

If this caught your attention, see: Smart Dns Nordvpn

Windows Settings

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To configure your DNS on Windows, you can follow these steps: go to settings, head to the connection tab, and turn on custom DNS. This allows you to input your own DNS addresses.

You can also change your DNS addresses via Windows settings by following the steps below:

  1. Go to settings.
  2. Head to the connection tab.
  3. Turn on custom DNS.
  4. Click on the drop-down arrow and input the following DNS addresses: 103.86.96.100 and 103.86.99.100.
  5. Reconnect to the VPN.

Alternatively, if you're setting up Smart DNS on Windows, you can follow these steps:

  1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
  2. Right-click on your active network connection (WiFi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
  3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties.
  4. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses, enter the Smart DNS addresses provided by NordVPN, and click OK.

Android Settings

You can change your DNS on Android via the NordVPN application or the Android settings.

To do it via the NordVPN application, follow the steps in the example: open the NordVPN app, tap on the shield icon, disable Threat Protection, go to the profile page, go to the settings menu, tap on the DNS option, select custom, enter 103.86.96.100, and tap add, then reconnect to the VPN to confirm the change.

Alternatively, you can also change your DNS via Android settings, but this method is not explicitly described in the article sections provided.

However, you can use NordVPN's SmartDNS on media streaming devices that don't support VPNs natively, such as Apple TV, by following the steps in the article section "Set Up NordVPN SmartDNS on Media Streaming Devices".

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TV Setup

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To set up NordVPN's SmartDNS on your TV, you'll need to customize the DNS settings. This can vary depending on the TV brand and model, so be sure to check the user manual or manufacturer's support website for specific instructions.

First, navigate to the network settings of your smart TV. You can usually find this by going to the TV's settings menu and selecting the option for network or internet settings.

For Samsung and LG smart TVs, you'll need to find the DNS settings and select "Enter manually". Then, type in the Smart DNS addresses you received from NordVPN and save the settings.

To activate NordVPN's SmartDNS on your TV, you'll need to log in to your Nord account using a computer or smartphone. Select "NordVPN" on the left side of the dashboard and click the "Activate" button in the "SmartDNS" section.

Once you've activated SmartDNS, you'll need to input your primary and secondary DNS addresses on your TV. For most TVs, you can find this by going to the Internet or Network settings menu and adjusting the DNS addresses.

Here's a quick rundown of the steps:

  1. Navigate to the network settings of your smart TV.
  2. Find the DNS settings and select "Enter manually".
  3. Type in the Smart DNS addresses you received from NordVPN and save the settings.

Changing and Managing

Credit: youtube.com, Smart DNS vs VPN Explained | NordVPN

If you're having trouble setting up NordVPN's DNS servers through the app, you can configure your device manually. This is especially helpful when connecting to NordVPN from a non-native app, like a third-party OpenVPN client.

You can manually set up NordVPN DNS server connections on various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

To change your DNS servers on Windows, you can follow the provided tutorial.

On macOS, you can change your DNS servers using a similar process.

For Linux users, changing DNS servers requires a slightly different approach.

If you're using an Android device, you can change your DNS servers using the provided steps.

On iOS, changing DNS servers involves a specific set of instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use custom DNS with NordVPN?

Using custom DNS with NordVPN may compromise your online privacy, as public DNS providers can collect your data. To maintain optimal privacy, consider using NordVPN's DNS servers instead.

Is NordVPN DNS server free?

Yes, NordVPN's public DNS servers are free to use by anyone. However, access to NordVPN's private DNS servers requires an active subscription.

Beatrice Giannetti

Senior Writer

Beatrice Giannetti is a seasoned blogger and writer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her writing style is engaging and relatable, making her posts widely read and shared across social media platforms. She has a passion for travel, food, and fashion, which she often incorporates into her writing.

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