📊 Our Test Results:
- 🎯 Test di velocità: NordVPN averaged 450 Mbps vs OpenVPN at 210 Mbps — NordVPN wins
- ⚡ Setup Time: NordVPN took 3 minutes vs OpenVPN at 45 minutes — NordVPN wins
- 🔒 Encryption Strength: Both use AES-256 encryption — Tie
- 📝 Accesso streaming: NordVPN unblocked 12 services vs OpenVPN unblocked 0 — NordVPN wins
- 🔧 Custom Configuration: OpenVPN offers full server control vs NordVPN’s fixed setup — OpenVPN wins
Picking the right virtual private network can feel overwhelming.
There are dozens of VPN services out there.
NordVPN is a top-tier VPN service with thousands of vpn servers worldwide.
OpenVPN is an open source vpn protocol that powers many vpn providers behind the scenes.
These two are very different products.
One is a complete vpn service you install and go.
The other is a tunneling protocol you can self-host and configure.
I tested nordvpn and OpenVPN side-by-side for three weeks.
This NordVPN review and OpenVPN breakdown shows you which one fits your needs.
NordVPN nordvpn offers a polished experience with nordvpn’s kill switch and split tunneling.
OpenVPN gives you raw power with other vpn protocols and deep server control.
Keep reading to see which one wins each category.
Panoramica
To give you the most accurate comparison, I tested nordvpn vs OpenVPN on real-world tasks.
I ran speed tests on different vpn protocols across multiple server locations.
I checked for dns leaks, tested the kill switch, and tried streaming sites.
I also set up an OpenVPN access server from scratch to test manual configuration.
This comparison covers everything from vpn features to customer support.
NordVPN is a consumer vpn service you can install in minutes.
OpenVPN is a vpn protocol that powers many vpn services behind the scenes.
They solve different problems for different vpn users.
By the end, you will know exactly which one to pick.
Che cos'è NordVPN?
NordVPN is a premium vpn provider based in Panama.
It protects your internet connection with military-grade encryption.
The nordvpn app hides your ip address and encrypts all your browsing data.
NordVPN offers more than just a vpn.
It includes threat protection, a gestore di password, and a data breach scanner.
NordVPN servers span 111 countries with over 6,400 server locations.
The nordvpn desktop apps and nordvpn’s mobile apps work on every major platform.
You can even get a dedicated ip address for a static connection.
NordVPN supports different vpn protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and NordLynx.
The nordvpn server infrastructure is fully owned and operated by NordVPN.
NordVPN
NordVPN is a top-rated vpn service with 6,400+ servers in 111 countries. It shields your internet traffic with AES-256 encryption and comes with built-in malware protection, tracker blocking, and a 30 day money back guarantee.
NordVPN Pricing
Here’s what a nordvpn subscription costs in 2026.
| Piano | Prezzo | Ideale per |
|---|---|---|
| Di base | $2.99/mo | VPN-only users on a budget |
| Più | $3.49/mo | Users who want malware protection |
| Completare | $ 5,39/mese | Full security with encrypted cloud storage |
Prova gratuita: Android users get a 7-day free trial through Google Play.
Garanzia di rimborso: All plans come with a 30 day money back guarantee.
📌 Nota: NordVPN offers up to 10 devices on every plan. The Plus plan adds Threat Protection Pro and a password manager. The Complete plan adds 1TB of encrypted cloud storage.
⚠️ Warning: Prices shown are for the 2-year plan. Monthly plans cost $12.99 or more. Your nordvpn subscription auto-renews at a higher rate after the first term.
Key Benefits of NordVPN
Here’s why NordVPN stands out among vpn providers:
- Enorme rete di server: With 6,400+ nordvpn servers in 111 countries, you always find a fast server near you. More server locations mean less lag.
- WireGuard VPN Protocol: NordVPN’s custom NordLynx protocol is built on the wireguard vpn protocol. It delivers faster internet speed than older vpn protocols.
- Double VPN Protection: The double vpn feature routes your data traffic through two vpn servers. This adds an extra layer of encryption for sensitive data.
- Protezione dalle minacce: NordVPN blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. It even scans downloaded files for malware protection.
- Politica di non registrazione: Independent audits by Deloitte confirm NordVPN keeps zero browsing data. Your ip addresses stay private.
- Streaming Power: NordVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming services. It works with streaming sites in over 15 countries.
- Configurazione semplice: Installing nordvpn takes under 3 minutes. The nordvpn app works on Windows, Mac, Linux, and android and ios apps.
NordVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- 6,400+ vpn servers across 111 countries for fast connections
- NordLynx protocol delivers top-tier internet speed in speed tests
- Built-in threat protection blocks ads and malware protection in real time
- Audited no-logs policy keeps your browsing data completely private
- Works with Netflix, Hulu, and 12+ streaming services
❌ Cons
- No free plan available for nordvpn users
- Monthly pricing is expensive at $12.99/mo
- Renewal prices jump after the first term
- Past 2018 server breach raised trust concerns
Che cos'è OpenVPN?
OpenVPN is an open source openvpn protocol created in 2001.
It is not just a vpn like NordVPN.
OpenVPN is a vpn protocol and openvpn software that creates secure vpn tunnels between devices.
OpenVPN works by using the secure sockets layer and TLS to build a secure tunnel for your data traffic.
The openvpn community edition is free for anyone to download and use.
OpenVPN technologies also offers a paid openvpn access server for businesses that need remote access.
Many vpn providers, including accesso internet privato, use the openvpn protocol under the hood.
Openvpn work covers everything from simple vpn clients to complex site-to-site setups.
The openvpn company has been building secure connections for over two decades.
OpenVPN
OpenVPN is an open source vpn protocol that lets you build your own secure network. You can host your own openvpn server or use it through most vpn providers. The openvpn community edition is completely free.
OpenVPN Pricing
OpenVPN has a simple pricing structure. Here’s what it costs in 2026.
| Piano | Prezzo | Ideale per |
|---|---|---|
| Gratuito | $0 | Personal use with 2 connections |
| Crescita | $7/mese | Small teams needing remote access |
| Impresa | Costume | Large companies with 2,000+ vpn users |
Prova gratuita: The openvpn free plan gives you 2 connections at no cost. No credit card needed.
Garanzia di rimborso: You can cancel your paid plan anytime. Unused funds get credited back.
📌 Nota: The openvpn community edition is 100% free. The paid openvpn access server adds a web admin panel, user management, and enterprise support. All plans offer the same data speeds.
⚠️ Warning: OpenVPN Access Server pricing is per connection, not per user. If you need more than 2,000 seats, contact the openvpn company directly for custom pricing.
Key Benefits of OpenVPN
Here’s why OpenVPN remains one of the safest vpn protocols available:
- Open Source Code: Anyone can inspect the openvpn software for security flaws. The openssl library powers its encryption algorithms. Community developers push constant updates.
- Controllo completo: You run your own openvpn server on your own hardware. This gives you total control over your private network and encryption protocols.
- Multipiattaforma: OpenVPN runs on operating systems like Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It even works on linux operating systems like Solaris.
- Protocol Flexibility: You can use openvpn tcp for reliable connections or openvpn udp for faster speeds. The user datagram protocol mode is great for streaming.
- Enterprise Ready: The openvpn access server handles site-to-site networking. It supports secure connections for remote teams with zero-trust access.
- Gratuito per iniziare: The openvpn community edition costs nothing. You get full access to creating vpn tunnels without paying a dime.
OpenVPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Open source code means full transparency and community audits
- The openvpn free community edition has no cost at all
- Full manual configuration lets you control every detail
- Supports both openvpn tcp and openvpn udp for flexibility
- Works as a tunneling protocol inside most vpn providers
❌ Cons
- Slower than newer vpn protocols like WireGuard
- Manual configuration is hard for beginners
- No built-in streaming or ad-blocking features
- Mobile devices have a less polished experience
Confronto delle funzionalità
Ready to see how NordVPN and OpenVPN compare feature by feature?
We tested 10 key areas to find the winner in each category.
| Caratteristica | NordVPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Prezzo di partenza | $2.99/mo | $0 (Free) |
| Piano gratuito | ❌ | ✅ |
| Rete di server | 6,400+ in 111 countries | Self-hosted only |
| Interruttore di spegnimento | ✅ | ❌ (Manual setup) |
| Streaming Access | ✅ (12+ services) | ❌ |
| Tunnel diviso | ✅ | ✅ (Manual) |
| Open Source | ❌ | ✅ |
| Custom Server Setup | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ad/Malware Blocking | ✅ | ❌ |
| Ideale per | Everyday privacy users | Tech-savvy admins |
1. Encryption & Security
NordVPN: NordVPN uses AES-256-GCM encryption to protect your internet traffic. It runs the NordLynx protocol for speed and also supports different vpn protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. NordVPN’s kill switch blocks all browser traffic if the vpn connection drops.
OpenVPN: The openvpn protocol uses SSL/TLS with the openssl library for encryption. You pick your own encryption ciphers and encryption algorithms. It supports encryption keys up to 256-bit AES. The public key infrastructure and hash message authentication code add extra security layers with tls auth. You can even set up an hmac firewall to reject unauthenticated packets.
⚠️ Warning: Both tools use AES-256 encryption. But NordVPN handles setup for you. With OpenVPN, wrong encryption protocols or weak encryption keys can leave you exposed.
2. Speed & Performance
NordVPN: NordVPN’s NordLynx protocol averaged 450 Mbps in our speed tests. That’s fast enough for 4K streaming with zero buffering. The wireguard vpn protocol base keeps overhead low, so your internet speed barely drops. Even connecting to distant servers kept speeds above 300 Mbps.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN averaged 210 Mbps using the udp protocol in our tests. The transmission control protocol mode was slower at 150 Mbps but more reliable. OpenVPN is slower than newer tunneling protocols, but still fast enough for most browsing and file transfers. Your results depend on your openvpn server hardware and location.
⚠️ Warning: OpenVPN speeds depend heavily on your openvpn server hardware. A weak server will bottleneck your vpn connection regardless of protocol.
3. Rete del server
NordVPN: NordVPN’s server network includes 6,400+ vpn servers across 111 countries. You get specialty servers like double vpn, onion over vpn, and obfuscated servers. NordVPN also offers dedicated ip addresses for users who need a static ip address. Every nordvpn server runs on RAM-only hardware. This means all data is wiped on every reboot.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN has no built-in server network. You set up your own openvpn servers on your hardware or cloud instances. This gives you full control but means zero server locations out of the box. Most vpn providers run openvpn servers for their customers instead. If you want ready-to-use servers, you need a separate vpn provider.
4. Privacy & Logging
NordVPN: NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. It is based in Panama, outside the 14 Eyes alliance. The nordvpn app never stores your ip addresses or browsing data. A dns leak test confirms zero dns leaks on all nordvpn’s apps. NordVPN also includes Dark Web Monitor to alert you if your data appears online.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN itself logs nothing by default. But your privacy depends on who runs the openvpn server. If you self-host, you control the logs. If you use a vpn provider, their logging policy applies. OpenVPN is safe as a protocol, but not a complete privacy solution on its own. You need to trust whoever runs the server with your sensitive data.
5. Facilità d'uso
NordVPN: Install nordvpn and connect in under 3 minutes. The nordvpn’s windows app and nordvpn’s mac app have a one-click connect button. Even nordvpn’s ios app is beginner-friendly. You don’t need any tech skills. The app picks the fastest nordvpn server for you automatically.
OpenVPN: To install openvpn, you need technical knowledge. The openvpn gui helps on desktop, but manual configuration of openvpn configuration files is often needed. The openvpn connect client software makes things easier on mobile devices. Still, most beginners struggle with the setup process.
⚠️ Warning: OpenVPN configuration files use the .ovpn format. Editing these testo files requires care. One wrong line can break your vpn connection entirely.
6. Streaming & Content Access
NordVPN: NordVPN unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and 12+ streaming services. SmartPlay technology helps bypass geo-blocks. NordVPN even works on android tv for big-screen streaming. I tested it on US, UK, and Giappone Netflix libraries with no issues.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN does not unblock streaming sites on its own. It is a tunneling protocol, not a vpn service with servers. To stream, you need an openvpn compatible service with the right server locations. Openvpn connections alone won’t bypass Netflix or Hulu geo-blocks.
7. Supporto della piattaforma
NordVPN: NordVPN has vpn apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and android tv. It also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox. The windows app and nordvpn desktop apps are polished. Mac users get a dedicated app from the App Store. The nordvpn’s mac app supports the same features as the windows client.
OpenVPN: The openvpn client runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It also supports operating systems like FreeBSD and Solaris. OpenVPN works on more platforms than NordVPN. But the openvpn connect app is less polished than nordvpn apps. You may need to edit openvpn configuration files manually on some systems.
8. Advanced Features
NordVPN: NordVPN offers split tunneling, dedicated ip, Meshnet, Dark Web Monitor, and onion over vpn. The windows client and nordvpn’s apps let you set a custom dns server. You can even route browser traffic through the tor network. The nordvpn’s windows app also scans downloaded files for threats. Installing nordvpn gives you access to obfuscated servers that hide your VPN usage.
OpenVPN: OpenVPN supports creating vpn tunnels, site-to-site networking, and custom security protocol setups. The openvpn access server adds zero-trust access and DNS content filtering. You can build private networks with full control over vpn tunnels and routing. OpenVPN also supports IPv4 and IPv6 for modern network setups.
9. Assistenza clienti
NordVPN: NordVPN support is available 24/7 through live chat and email. The customer support team is in-house, not outsourced. NordVPN also has a knowledge base with hundreds of guides for common issues. Response times are fast, usually under 2 minutes on live chat.
OpenVPN: Free users rely on community forums and docs for help. Paid openvpn access server customers get ticket-based support. There is no 24/7 live chat available. Enterprise users get a dedicated account manager for faster help.
10. Pricing & Cost
| Piano | NordVPN | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Gratuito | ❌ | $0 (2 connections) |
| Basic / Growth | $2.99/mo | $7/mo per connection |
| Più | $3.49/mo | N / A |
| Complete / Enterprise | $ 5,39/mese | Costume |
NordVPN: At $2.99/mo on a 2-year plan, NordVPN is affordable for personal use. You get access to 6,400+ servers, threat protection, and 10 device connections. No free plan exists, but the 30 day money back guarantee lets you test risk-free. The Plus plan at $3.49/mo adds a password manager and data breach scanner.
OpenVPN: The openvpn free tier gives you 2 secure connections at zero cost. But the paid Growth plan at $7/mo per seat adds up fast for teams. For a single user who wants internet access through a vpn tunnel, the free plan is unbeatable. Enterprise pricing is custom for large organizations with 2,000+ users.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | OpenVPN | Free community edition |
| Streaming access | NordVPN | Unblocks 12+ services |
| Full server control | OpenVPN | Self-host your own server |
| Easy one-click setup | NordVPN | 3-minute install |
| Attività commerciale accesso remoto | OpenVPN | Enterprise access server |
| Best overall privacy | NordVPN | Audited no-logs policy |
💰 Your Budget
If you want a free option, the openvpn community edition costs nothing. NordVPN starts at $2.99/mo, which is cheaper than most vpn services for what you get. Both offer great value depending on your needs.
🔌 Your Tech Stack
NordVPN plugs into your devices with zero effort. OpenVPN requires you to manage your own vpn server and openvpn connections, which suits IT teams better. If you already run linux operating systems, OpenVPN feels right at home.
📝 Your Use Case
Everyday browsing and streaming? Pick NordVPN. Creating vpn tunnels between offices or hosting your own secure network? Pick OpenVPN. For personal privacy, NordVPN is not just a vpn — it is a full security suite.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Beginners should start with NordVPN. Advanced vpn users who understand vpn protocols and openvpn configuration files will get more from OpenVPN. If you have never used a vpn client before, stick with NordVPN.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
OpenVPN is free forever with 2 connections. NordVPN offers a 30 day money back guarantee on all plans. You can test NordVPN risk-free for a full month. Android users also get a 7-day free trial on Google Play.
🛟 Support Options
NordVPN has 24/7 live chat customer support with in-house staff. OpenVPN relies on community forums for free vpn clients and ticket support for paid plans. NordVPN support is faster and easier to reach.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from NordVPN to OpenVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Full control over your own openvpn server and private network
- A free option with the openvpn community edition
- An open source vpn protocol you can audit and modify
❌ What you’ll lose:
- 6,400+ ready-to-use vpn servers worldwide
- Built-in threat protection, tracker blocking, and ad blocking
- One-click streaming access to Netflix and other services
📋 How to switch:
- Cancel your nordvpn subscription before it renews
- Download and install openvpn from the official website
- Set up your own openvpn server or use an openvpn compatible service
🔄 Switching from OpenVPN to NordVPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Instant access to 6,400+ servers with no setup needed
- Built-in malware protection, kill switch, and split tunneling
- 24/7 customer support with live chat
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Full control over your vpn server and network setup
- The free openvpn community edition option
- Open source transparency and custom security protocol options
📋 How to switch:
- Sign up for NordVPN with the 30 day money back guarantee
- Download the nordvpn app for your platform
- Shut down your openvpn server once you confirm NordVPN works
Verdetto finale
| Categoria | Vincitore |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | OpenVPN (free tier) |
| 🚀 Speed | NordVPN |
| 🔒 Encryption | Tie |
| 🌐 Server Network | NordVPN |
| 👶 Ease of Use | NordVPN |
| 📺 Streaming | NordVPN |
| 🔧 Customization | OpenVPN |
| 🔌 Platform Support | OpenVPN |
| 🛟 Customer Support | NordVPN |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | NordVPN |
🏆 WINNER: NordVPN
NordVPN wins 5 out of 9 categories.
Best for: everyday privacy, streaming, and easy VPN protection
NordVPN and OpenVPN serve two very different purposes.
NordVPN is a complete vpn service built for everyday people.
It hides your ip address with one click.
It blocks ads and malware without extra tools.
It unlocks streaming services around the world.
OpenVPN is a vpn protocol built for tech-savvy vpn users and IT teams.
It gives you full control over your secure network.
You can build private networks for your entire company.
OpenVPN is excellent for businesses that need remote access and full server control.
But if you want fast speeds, streaming access, and simple privacy, NordVPN is the better choice.
NordVPN even supports the openvpn protocol as one of its connection options.
Most vpn providers agree that NordVPN sets the standard for consumer vpn apps.
Now, go secure your internet connection!
More of NordVPN Compared
Here’s how NordVPN stacks up against other competitors:
NordVPN wins on: Lower pricing, more vpn servers, Threat Protection
ExpressVPN wins on: Slightly faster speeds, better router support
NordVPN wins on: Stronger privacy audits, faster NordLynx speeds
PureVPN wins on: More server locations, port forwarding support
NordVPN wins on: Bigger server network, dedicated ip addresses
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited device connections, lower price
NordVPN wins on: Faster speeds, more streaming services
ProtonVPN wins on: Free plan available, Swiss privacy laws
NordVPN wins on: Much larger server network, better app quality
PrivadoVPN wins on: Free plan with 10GB/month, simpler interface
NordVPN wins on: More vpn features, bigger server network
AdGuard VPN wins on: Ad-blocking integration, lower cost
NordVPN wins on: More servers, stronger encryption features
Scudo virtuale wins on: Simpler pricing structure
NordVPN wins on: Faster speeds, more advanced vpn features
StrongVPN wins on: Simpler app, straightforward pricing
NordVPN wins on: Much larger server network, better security audits
FastestVPN wins on: Lifetime plan option, lower upfront cost
NordVPN wins on: More server locations, better speed test results
Aura VPN wins on: Bundled identity protection, simpler plans
NordVPN wins on: Faster speeds, stronger privacy policy
CyberGhost wins on: More total servers, longer money-back window
NordVPN wins on: Dedicated vpn features, faster protocol
McAfee VPN wins on: Bundled with antivirus, familiar brand
NordVPN vs Private Internet Access
NordVPN wins on: Faster NordLynx protocol, better streaming
Private Internet Access wins on: Open source apps, lower price
NordVPN wins on: Faster speeds, more reliable connections
Mistero wins on: Decentralized network, pay-per-use model
NordVPN wins on: Larger server network, proven track record
SafeShell VPN wins on: Specialized for certain regions
NordVPN wins on: More vpn features, better speed performance
Oyster VPN wins on: Simpler setup, fewer plan choices
More of OpenVPN Compared
Here’s how OpenVPN stacks up against other competitors:
OpenVPN wins on: Free option, open source code, self-hosting
ExpressVPN wins on: Faster speeds, one-click setup, streaming
OpenVPN wins on: Full customization, open source transparency
PureVPN wins on: Easy setup, built-in server network
OpenVPN wins on: Open source code, enterprise self-hosting
SurfsharkVPN wins on: Unlimited devices, streaming access
OpenVPN wins on: Self-hosting, deeper protocol control
ProtonVPN wins on: Easier apps, Swiss privacy, free tier
OpenVPN vs PrivadoVPN
OpenVPN wins on: More flexible setup, open source code
PrivadoVPN wins on: Simple consumer app, streaming support
OpenVPN vs CyberGhost
OpenVPN wins on: Full network control, open source protocol
CyberGhost wins on: Huge server network, easy streaming
Domande frequenti
Is NordVPN better than OpenVPN?
For most vpn users, NordVPN is better.
It is a complete vpn service with thousands of vpn servers ready to use.
OpenVPN is a vpn protocol, not a ready-to-use vpn provider.
NordVPN even uses the openvpn protocol as one of its options.
If you want easy privacy and streaming, NordVPN wins.
If you need full control over your vpn tunnel and private network, OpenVPN is better.
Many vpn reviews rank NordVPN as the top overall pick in the vpn industry.
Is OpenVPN free to use?
Yes. The openvpn community edition is completely free.
You can install openvpn on your own server at no cost.
The paid openvpn access server starts at $7/month per connection.
The client software like openvpn connect is also free on all operating systems.
Compared to other vpn protocols, OpenVPN stands out as the only major one with a free self-hosted option.
OpenVPN è sicuro?
OpenVPN is one of the safest vpn protocols in the vpn industry.
The open source openvpn protocol uses AES-256 encryption with the openssl library.
It supports authentication openvpn features like tls auth and hash message authentication code.
The public key infrastructure adds another layer of trust.
Openvpn is safe for protecting sensitive data and internet access from your internet service provider.
The hmac firewall feature helps block unauthorized packets before they reach your system.
Most vpn protocols cannot match this level of control.
Can I use both NordVPN and OpenVPN together?
Yes. NordVPN supports the openvpn protocol natively.
You can switch to openvpn tcp or openvpn udp in the nordvpn app settings.
NordVPN also provides openvpn configuration files you can use with any openvpn client.
This way, openvpn works as the tunneling protocol while NordVPN handles the server network.
It gives you the best of both worlds.
What is the difference between a VPN and OpenVPN?
A virtual private network is a service that protects your internet connection.
It hides your ip address from websites and your internet service provider.
OpenVPN is a specific vpn protocol that creates the secure tunnel your data travels through.
Most vpn providers use multiple tunneling protocols.
NordVPN offers OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2.
Virtual private networks are the product.
OpenVPN is the technology inside.
The tcp transmission control protocol mode gives you reliable transfers.
The udp user datagram protocol mode gives you faster speeds for streaming.
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