How to configure DoubleVPN encryption on NordVPN

intermediate 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18
Quick Answer

DoubleVPN on NordVPN routes your traffic through two VPN servers for enhanced security. Access it through the app's specialty servers section or use specific DoubleVPN server configurations.

Prerequisites

  • Active NordVPN subscription
  • NordVPN app installed on your device
  • Basic understanding of VPN connections
  • Admin privileges on your device

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Open NordVPN Application

Launch the NordVPN app on your device and log in with your credentials. Ensure you have an active subscription that includes specialty servers access. The DoubleVPN feature is available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS applications.
If you don't see specialty server options, your subscription plan may not include them
2

Access Specialty Servers

In the main interface, look for Specialty Servers or Server Categories in the left sidebar or menu. On mobile apps, tap the Specialty Servers option from the server list. This section contains advanced server configurations including DoubleVPN.
On some app versions, specialty servers appear as icons at the bottom of the server list
3

Select DoubleVPN Option

Click or tap on Double VPN from the specialty servers list. You'll see a list of available DoubleVPN server combinations, typically showing the entry and exit countries (e.g., Canada → Netherlands or Switzerland → Sweden).
DoubleVPN servers may have higher latency due to routing through two locations
4

Choose Server Combination

Select your preferred DoubleVPN server combination based on your location and privacy needs. The first country listed is your entry point, and the second is your exit point. Consider geographic proximity to your location for better speeds while maintaining desired privacy jurisdiction.
Choose combinations with privacy-friendly countries like Switzerland or Netherlands as exit points
5

Establish DoubleVPN Connection

Click Connect or the power button to establish the DoubleVPN connection. The app will show DoubleVPN status and both server locations. Wait for the connection to fully establish before browsing - this may take 10-30 seconds longer than regular connections.
Look for the DoubleVPN badge in the connection status to confirm proper setup
6

Verify Connection Status

Check your connection by visiting whatismyipaddress.com or using NordVPN's built-in IP checker. Your IP should match the exit country from your chosen combination. The app should display Protected status with DoubleVPN indicators.
Use online DNS leak tests to ensure all traffic is properly routed through both VPN servers
7

Configure Protocol Settings

Go to SettingsVPN Protocol and ensure you're using NordLynx or OpenVPN for optimal DoubleVPN performance. Enable Kill Switch and DNS Leak Protection for maximum security with your DoubleVPN setup.
NordLynx typically provides better speeds with DoubleVPN compared to OpenVPN

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

DoubleVPN option not visible in specialty servers

Verify your subscription includes specialty servers, update the NordVPN app to the latest version, or contact support if the feature should be available on your plan.

Extremely slow connection speeds with DoubleVPN

Try different server combinations closer to your location, switch to NordLynx protocol in settings, or temporarily disable unnecessary background applications consuming bandwidth.

DoubleVPN connection keeps dropping

Enable the Kill Switch feature, check your internet stability, try a different DoubleVPN server combination, or switch from WiFi to ethernet for more stable connectivity.

Websites blocking DoubleVPN traffic

Some streaming services detect DoubleVPN usage. Try different server combinations, switch to regular VPN servers for specific sites, or use NordVPN's SmartPlay feature when available.

Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official NordVPN website before purchasing.