How to connect to specific server on NordVPN

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

To connect to a specific NordVPN server, open the NordVPN app, browse the server list or map, and click on your desired server. You can filter servers by country, specialty features, or server load for optimal performance.

Prerequisites

  • Active NordVPN subscription
  • NordVPN app installed on your device
  • Internet connection
  • Valid login credentials

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Open NordVPN Application

Launch the NordVPN app on your device and log in with your credentials. Ensure you're on the main dashboard where you can see the Quick Connect button and server options.
Make sure your NordVPN app is updated to the latest version for the best server selection experience.
2

Access Server List

Click on the Server List icon (usually three horizontal lines) or the Browse Servers option. Alternatively, you can click on the interactive map to view servers by geographic location.
3

Choose Your Country

Browse through the list of available countries or click on a country pin on the map. Expand the country section to see all available servers in that location. Countries with more servers will show a number next to them.
Countries closer to your physical location typically provide faster connection speeds.
4

Select Specific Server

Within your chosen country, you'll see individual servers listed as #1, #2, etc. Click on the specific server number you want to connect to. Green dots indicate low server load, while red dots show high load.
Choose servers with lower load percentages (green indicators) for better performance and speed.
5

Apply Server Filters (Optional)

Use the Filter option to find specialized servers. Select filters like P2P, Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, or Obfuscated Servers based on your needs before selecting a specific server.
Specialty servers may have slightly slower speeds but offer enhanced security features.
6

Connect to Selected Server

Click the Connect button next to your chosen server, or simply click on the server name. The app will display Connecting... and then show Connected with a green status indicator when successful.
7

Verify Connection

Once connected, check that the app shows your new IP address and location. You can also visit whatismyipaddress.com in your browser to confirm your IP has changed to the selected server location.
Save frequently used servers as favorites by clicking the star icon next to the server name.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Specific server won't connect

Try connecting to a different server in the same country first, then attempt your preferred server again. Some servers may be temporarily overloaded or under maintenance.

Server list not loading

Check your internet connection and restart the NordVPN app. If the issue persists, log out and log back in to refresh the server database.

Connected but internet not working

Disconnect from the VPN, restart your network adapter, then reconnect. You can also try switching to a different VPN protocol in Settings > Connection.

Can't find specialty servers

Ensure you're using the correct filters in the server list. Some specialty servers are only available in specific countries - check NordVPN's website for the complete list of supported locations.

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