Getting Started with NordVPN DNS Servers

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NordVPN DNS servers are located in 62 countries worldwide, offering a vast network to choose from.

To set up NordVPN DNS servers, you'll need to configure your device to use the NordVPN DNS addresses. This can be done through the NordVPN app or by manually setting the DNS servers on your device.

NordVPN offers a built-in DNS leak protection feature, which helps prevent your real IP address from being exposed even if the DNS server you're using is not secure.

Why Use NordVPN?

NordVPN's DNS servers are a game-changer for your online security and speed. They translate domain names into IP addresses, but changing them provides increased security and speed.

DNS hijacking is a real threat, where attackers redirect or alter DNS settings to send users to fake websites or malicious servers, leading to phishing, malware infections, data theft, or blocking access to legitimate sites. This often occurs through router vulnerabilities or malware.

Intriguing read: Nordvpn Speed Test

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Using NordVPN's SmartDNS is a great option for devices not compatible with VPNs, such as smart TVs or game consoles, allowing you to unblock and use streaming services. SmartDNS is also super fast, with no throttling or slowdowns, even with a 20-25Mbps web connection.

Setting up SmartDNS is a breeze, requiring only a few simple steps in your device's settings. You can unblock popular streaming services restricted to the US only, such as PlayStation 4, by entering your primary and secondary DNS in the device's settings.

Setting Up NordVPN

To set up NordVPN, you need to configure your DNS settings manually. This is done within the network settings of your device.

You'll need to input the NordVPN DNS addresses, which are 103.86.99.103 and 103.86.96.103. Make sure to enter them accurately to avoid connection issues.

If you're using a smart TV, you'll need to customize its DNS settings and install media streaming apps. First, connect your smart TV to the same Wi-Fi network as your device.

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Next, log in to your Nord account using any web browser on your computer or smartphone. Select 'NordVPN' on the left side of the dashboard and click the 'Activate' button in the 'SmartDNS' section.

Now, navigate to your smart TV's settings and visit the Internet or Network-related settings. Input your primary DNS address as 103.86.99.103 and your secondary DNS address as 103.86.96.103.

For more specific instructions on your TV model, do a Google search. Once you've entered the DNS addresses, you can use your TV like normal and install new media streaming apps.

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

However, if you're using a device that doesn't support VPNs natively, such as Apple TV, you'll need to set up NordVPN's SmartDNS manually.

To do this, connect your media streaming device and your device to the same network. Then, access your Nord account using your computer or smartphone and select 'NordVPN' on the left side of the dashboard. Click the 'Activate' button in the 'SmartDNS' section to register your IP address and whitelist it.

Next, navigate to your media streaming device's Internet settings and select Configure DNS > Manual. Enter the primary DNS address as 103.86.99.103 and the secondary DNS address as 103.86.96.103.

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Smart TV and Devices

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Smart TVs and devices can be a bit tricky to set up with NordVPN's DNS servers, but don't worry, I've got you covered. You can set up NordVPN's SmartDNS on any device that lets you adjust DNS settings, which is most often used on devices that don't support VPN apps.

For example, smart TVs, game consoles, and dedicated media streaming devices like Apple TV. These devices support SmartDNS services, which is perfect for streaming media and unblocking new streaming services.

To set up NordVPN's SmartDNS on your Smart TV, you'll need to have NordVPN installed on another device, like a computer or smartphone, that's connected to the same network as your TV. Once you're logged in to your Nord Account dashboard, you can activate SmartDNS and follow the instructions to set up your Smart TV.

Here's a brief guide to help you set up NordVPN's SmartDNS on your Smart TV:

Remember, you can have up to 6 simultaneous connections with NordVPN, so feel free to set up SmartDNS on multiple devices at once.

SmartPlay and Streaming

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SmartPlay is a combination of NordVPN's standard and SmartDNS features. It works in the background, letting you use individual VPN servers to unblock media streaming services, while also encrypting your data.

With SmartPlay, you can securely bypass geo-blocks to stream media content on virtually any streaming service. This includes popular platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Paramount+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

NordVPN's SmartPlay feature is designed to give you the best of both worlds: the security of a VPN and the ability to access geo-restricted content. This makes it a great option for streaming enthusiasts who want to access their favorite shows and movies from anywhere in the world.

Here are some of the streaming services that NordVPN's SmartPlay can unblock:

  • Netflix
  • BBC iPlayer
  • Paramount+
  • Hulu
  • Amazon Prime Video

Note that SmartDNS's streaming scope is limited to American-based services, as NordVPN's SmartDNS servers are based there.

Setup and Configuration

To set up NordVPN DNS servers, you'll need to configure your device manually. This is especially useful when connecting to NordVPN from a non-native app or if there are issues setting up DNS addresses in the NordVPN app.

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For Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, you can find step-by-step tutorials on how to manually set up NordVPN DNS server connections on your operating system.

Not all devices support DNS configuration, so ensure your Smart TV allows DNS configuration. Most Smart TVs with internet capability support this feature, but check your model's manual or support website for specifics.

To set up NordVPN SmartDNS on Smart TVs, you'll need a smart TV that lets you customize DNS settings and install media streaming apps. For this, follow the steps outlined below.

Here's a quick rundown of the steps:

  1. Make sure your smart TV is connected to the Web and the same Wi-Fi network as your device.
  2. Login to your Nord account using your computer or smartphone.
  3. Whitelist your IP address on your specific network.
  4. Input your primary (103.86.99.103) and secondary DNS (103.86.96.103) addresses.

NordVPN also offers a tutorial video on setting up SmartDNS on LG TVs.

How to Switch Servers

Changing DNS servers can be a game-changer for your online security and speed.

You may be subject to DNS hijacking with default DNS, which is a cyberattack that redirects you to fake websites or malicious servers, leading to phishing, malware infections, or data theft.

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Changing to a private DNS server like NordVPN's can provide increased security and speed.

NordVPN DNS servers translate domain names into IP addresses, allowing your device to connect to websites securely.

You can configure your device manually to use NordVPN's private DNS servers, especially when connecting through third-party OpenVPN clients or experiencing issues with the NordVPN app.

Here are some tutorials to help you manually set up NordVPN DNS server connections on your operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

NordVPN offers tutorials for changing DNS servers on each of these platforms, making it easy to set up a secure and fast connection.

Check Compatibility

Before you start setting up your streaming device, make sure your Smart TV allows DNS configuration. Most Smart TVs with internet capability support this feature, but check your model's manual or support website for specifics.

You can usually find this information in your TV's manual or online support resources. This will save you time and frustration in the long run.

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Some Smart TVs may have specific requirements or limitations when it comes to DNS configuration. Check your TV's manual or support website to see if there are any specific settings you need to enable.

It's also a good idea to check if your TV's firmware is up to date, as this can affect its compatibility with streaming devices.

Set Up for Game Consoles

Setting up NordVPN's SmartDNS on game consoles is a straightforward process that requires a few simple steps. To get started, make sure your console and the device you'll use to activate SmartDNS are connected to the same network, preferably your home Wi-Fi.

You'll need to access your Nord account dashboard using your computer or smartphone. Provide your credentials, and you'll see the NordVPN section on the left side of the page. Click on the 'Activate' button in the 'SmartDNS' section, and wait a couple of moments until NordVPN registers your IP address and activates SmartDNS.

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Now, navigate to your game console's settings app and find the group of options related to Web connectivity. Your goal is to find DNS-related settings, which can be a bit tedious, but don't worry, I've got you covered.

Here are the specific steps for each console:

Once you change 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.

Alternatives and Options

If you're not satisfied with NordVPN's DNS servers, there are other options available.

ExpressVPN offers a similar service, with a network of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries.

Cloudflare DNS is another alternative, providing a free and fast DNS service with built-in security features.

Google Public DNS is a popular choice, offering a high-speed and secure DNS service with minimal latency.

DNS servers from your internet service provider (ISP) are also an option, but keep in mind that they may not offer the same level of security as a third-party service.

Some users may also consider setting up their own DNS server using a service like Unbound, but this requires technical expertise and setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use custom DNS with NordVPN?

Using custom DNS with NordVPN may compromise your online privacy, but it's a trade-off for flexibility and control over your DNS settings. Consider the risks and benefits before deciding whether to use custom DNS with NordVPN.

Lamar Smitham

Writer

Lamar Smitham is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for simplifying complex topics, Lamar has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. Lamar's areas of expertise include Microsoft Licensing, where he has written in-depth articles that provide valuable insights for businesses and individuals alike.

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