Norton Secure VPN Review: Pricing, Pros & Cons In 2024

Maintaining safety online is of paramount importance in the present day. You may be familiar with Norton Secure VPN. It is a virtual private network that utilizes robust encryption to safeguard your internet activities. If you want to know more about these encryption methods, you must visit this helpful guide. It prevents malicious hackers, advertisers, and prying individuals from viewing your personal data.

It is headquartered in the United States of America, a nation with stringent cybersecurity regulations in place. It was developed by the well-established antivirus company Norton to facilitate users’ private browsing. It possesses servers globally, permitting you to access any online content from any location while concurrently obscuring your actual location and identity.

This article provides comprehensive key details about it. It explains how good is Norton Secure VPN and elucidates the reasons for its widespread current usage, performance capabilities, features, and effectiveness for activities such as streaming content on Netflix. You will also learn about its advantages and disadvantages, pricing structure, and installation procedures. Are you ready to delve deeper?

Why Is Norton Secure VPN So Popular Among People Lately?

Keeping your online activities private is very important. It is one of the best choices for this. Norton experts created it. Norton is a well-known company for internet security, which makes people trust Norton Secure VPN. It uses extremely powerful codes to protect your data. These codes keep your information safe from hackers. Norton Secure VPN also has a no-logging policy. This means it does not save any records of the websites you visit.

Norton made simple apps for phones, tablets, and computers. The apps have a basic design that is easy to understand. It has servers in many different countries worldwide. This lets you access any online content while hiding your real location. No one can see where you are.

The service includes a kill switch feature. If the VPN connection stops working, the kill switch disconnects your internet connection. Visit the vpn.com guide to learn how the kill switch feature works. This prevents anyone from seeing your real IP address. Norton Secure VPN is based in the United States, which has strong internet laws. However, being in the U.S. could also mean less privacy for some users.

The pricing is reasonable. You can get good deals, especially if you bundle it with other Norton security products. It works well for streaming videos from sites like Netflix. However, it does not always work perfectly for other streaming platforms. Norton does not allow downloading torrents. Norton’s reputation, security features, ease of use, and global servers make this VPN very popular for protecting online privacy.

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Norton Secure VPN is a good choice. It is reliable and easy to use. It has strong security features. It works well, but speeds can sometimes be inconsistent based on which server you use and how many people are connected. 

It does not have as many advanced custom options as some other VPNs. This overall rating considers both the positives and areas that could be improved.

Performance 

Rating: 4.5/5

It generally gives you fast and dependable internet connections. Speeds are best when you connect to a server located close to you. However, some users report periods of slower speeds. This can happen if too many people are using the same server, or if the server is far away. This rating accounts for the occasional speed issues some experience.

Security and Privacy

Rating: 4.5/5

It uses very strong encryption to protect your data. It claims it does not log or record any details about your internet activities. However, it does collect some minimal data to try and improve the service. It is not fully clear if servers automatically delete all data as stated. This rating balances the robust security with the small amount of data collection.

Features

Rating: 4.5/5

It includes useful features like split tunneling and a kill switch. However, it does not offer as many advanced customization options as some other VPNs do. More tech-savvy users may want additional controls. This rating reflects the mix of basic and advanced features provided.

Ease of Use  

Rating: 4.8/5

The Norton Secure VPN app has a very user-friendly design. It is easy to install and use on all major devices like Windows, Mac, Android, and iPhone/iPad. Most users say the setup was quick and simple. This high rating matches the positive feedback about how easy it is to use.

Customer Support

Rating: 4.7/5

You can get good customer support for Norton Secure VPN. They offer 24/7 live chat assistance anytime. They also have extensive guides and resources in their help center. This rating shows the quality support available if you need it.  

Value for Money

Rating: 4.6/5

Norton Secure VPN has competitive pricing, especially if you bundle it with other Norton 360 security products like antivirus. Standalone VPN plans are reasonably priced as well. Most users feel this virtual private network service provides good value for the level of security and performance.

Distribution of Norton Secure Users

North America (40%)

Many people in North America worry about privacy online. They don’t want others to see their internet activities. It helps keep their online activities private.  

People use VPNs to access TV shows, movies, and other content that is normally blocked in their area. VPNs let them watch anything they want from anywhere. North America has very good, high-speed internet in most places. This makes using VPNs easy without slowing things down.

Europe (25%) 

In Europe, there are laws about protecting people’s data privacy. These laws make Europeans aware of privacy concerns. They use VPNs to enhance their online privacy and security.

Different European countries have different rules about what internet content people can access. VPNs allow people to bypass these restrictions. Like North America, Europe has widely available high-speed internet that supports the smooth use of VPNs.  

Asia (20%)

In many Asian countries, the government blocks and censors many internet sites and services. People use VPNs to bypass this censorship and freely access the open internet.

As more people in Asia get internet access, they learn about privacy risks online. They start using privacy tools like VPNs. With more online activities, people in Asia have growing concerns about privacy and data security. VPNs help protect their privacy.

South America (8%)  

More people in South America are getting internet access. As they go online, they realize the importance of privacy and security tools like VPNs.

In unstable areas, VPNs provide a secure way to communicate privately without government surveillance. They also allow access to restricted content.

Other Regions (7%)

In areas like Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Oceania, people use VPNs for different reasons depending on the region:

• Some use VPNs to bypass censorship and access blocked websites/content. 
• Others use VPNs to enhance privacy from government monitoring.
• Some use VPNs to access global entertainment and information that is restricted locally.

Norton Secure VPN Features

Security

It uses super strong encryption codes called AES-256. These codes scramble your data. Hackers cannot unscramble or read the codes ever. This protects your information from bad guys. However, it collects some tiny bits of data, such as how much internet you use and when you connect. They do this to try to improve the service and fix problems. Norton says they collect this small data, so you know fully what happens.

Customer Support

If you need any help, it has customer support ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can chat live with a support person at any time. Norton also has an online help center. The center has guides and instructions. These show you how to set things up and fix issues yourself.

Ease of Use

It is designed to be very easy for anyone to use. The app has a simple, straightforward layout. It is easy to understand where everything is. The app works on Windows computers, Mac computers, Android phones/tablets, and iPhones/iPads. Most users say installing Norton Secure VPN is quick and problem-free.

Protocols

Norton uses special secure “languages” called protocols to talk to their servers. The main protocol is OpenVPN. OpenVPN is very common and keeps data super safe. For iPhones/iPads, Norton also uses a protocol called IPsec. IPsec is typically used on iOS devices.

Low Ping

Having low “ping” times means your internet data travels fast with little delay. This is important for activities like online gaming where you need quick reflexes. It generally gives you good low ping times for smooth gaming. However, it does not have a special “gaming mode” to fully optimize ping.

Privacy

It says it does not log or record any details about what you do online. However, it does collect some tiny amounts of data to try and improve the service quality. Norton is located in the United States. Some people may not fully trust U.S. companies for privacy reasons. But Norton uses very strong AES-256 encryption to protect your data.

No Limits

You can use as much internet data as you want with Norton Secure VPN. There are absolutely no caps or limits on how much you can stream videos, download files, or browse the web.

Multi Platforms

It works on Windows PCs, Mac computers, Android devices, and iPhones/iPads. However, it does not officially support the Linux operating system. You can use it on these major platform types, but Linux lacks full support.

Ad Tracker Blocking

The Norton VPN includes a feature that blocks ad trackers. Ad trackers follow your internet activities to show you targeted advertisements. Blocking these trackers enhances your privacy and prevents intrusive ads from popping up constantly.

Wi-Fi Security

When you use public WiFi hotspots, your internet connection is not secure. Hackers can access these open networks. Norton Secure VPN automatically makes your connection secure and safe when using public WiFis. This protects your data from any bad guys.

Secure Banking

It provides an extra layer of security for online banking and shopping activities. It ensures your financial information and transactions stay completely private and away from cyber threats when you use banking websites or make purchases online.

How Fast Is Norton Secure VPN?

Web Browsing (93%)

When you browse the regular internet without a VPN, that is considered 100% speed; with this VPN turned on, your browsing speeds will be just slightly slower around 93% of that maximum speed.

But you likely won’t notice much of a difference at all. Web pages and normal websites will load extremely quickly, basically the same as without the VPN. Only a tiny, tiny slowdown that you can hardly tell is happening. But your browsing activities stay completely private this way.

HD Streaming (90%)

Streaming high-definition video requires lots of internet speed and bandwidth. With it, you’ll get around 90% of your regular speeds for HD streaming. That means you can watch Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services in beautiful high-definition quality. The video will look crisp and clear.

You may sometimes experience a small pause where it needs to buffer and load more video data. But overall, HD streaming works great with only a small slowdown from your maximum internet speeds without the VPN.

Online Gaming (95%)

Playing video games online requires super fast internet connections and low “ping” times. Ping means how quickly your data can travel back and forth for responsive controls. The claim is that it maintains 95% of your regular ping times for gaming without a VPN. That’s really fast! Most likely, you won’t notice any delays, lags, or stuttering during gameplay with the VPN on.

Everything will feel smooth and reactive, almost identical to gaming without using a VPN at all. It optimizes things for an excellent online gaming experience.

Large File Download (85%)

Downloading huge files is one of the most demanding internet activities. It requires maximum bandwidth and download speeds. With Norton Secure on, your download speeds are estimated to be around 85% of your absolute maximum without the VPN.

So while those giant file downloads may take a little bit longer with the slight slowdown, you can still download at pretty fast speeds. And your downloads stay secure and private this way. An 85% reduction is not too bad for such bandwidth-heavy tasks.

Overall, it does an excellent job of keeping your internet nearly as fast as normal for common online activities like browsing, streaming, gaming, and downloading. Just some tiny slowdowns that are barely noticeable in exchange for complete privacy protection.

Speed And Performance 

VPN Protocols and Speed

It uses different secure protocols to communicate with its servers. The latest WireGuard protocol is blazing fast yet still has very strong security. They also have older protocols like OpenVPN which are reliable and private but not quite as fast as WireGuard. Still, you won’t notice much slowdown.

Server Load and Distribution  

If too many people use the same Norton server, it can slow down your connection speeds. But Norton Secure VPN lets you see how crowded each server location is. You can then pick one with fewer users for a smooth, full-speed experience.

Norton Secure VPN’s massive global server network means you can connect to whichever one is closest to you. Choosing a nearby server minimizes the distance your data travels for maximum speed.

Performance for Specific Activities

• Video Streaming: It generally performs well for streaming services like Netflix, allowing HD and 4K streaming with minimal buffering. However, some users report occasional inconsistencies in unblocking certain streaming platforms.
• Online Gaming: Provides low-latency connections suitable for gaming, but performance can vary based on the server location and network conditions. The claim that ping times are super low may not always hold true for all users.
• Downloading/Torrenting: It does not support P2P traffic on its servers, making it less suitable for torrenting compared to other VPNs that offer dedicated P2P servers.

Security Features Impact on Speed

While its robust security features create some minor technical overheads, their impact on overall speeds is negligible in real-world use. You get top security balanced with high performance.

Pricing And Plans

Subscription

• Your subscription begins when you pay for it.
• You must agree to the rules in the Terms of Sale and License & Services Agreement.  
• For free trials, you give your payment info. If you don’t cancel, you get charged when the trial ends.

Renewing Subscription

• Your subscription will keep going automatically unless you cancel the renewal before the billing date.
• You get billed once a year (up to 35 days early) or once a month, depending on your plan.
• Yearly subscribers get an email telling them the new renewal price ahead of time.
• The renewal price may be higher than what you paid initially. Norton Secure VPN prices can change.
• You can stop the renewal through your account or by contacting customer service.

Canceling and Refunds

• You can cancel and get a full refund within 14 days of purchasing a monthly subscription.
• For yearly subscriptions, you can get a full refund within 60 days of your payment.

Does Norton Secure Work Effectively With Streaming Services Like Netflix To Access Geo-restricted Content?  

Yes, Norton Secure VPN works well for streaming Netflix and other sites with location blocks.

Specialized Streaming Servers

It does not specifically advertise having special servers just for streaming video. However, they do have some servers that can bypass the VPN blocks put in place by streaming services like Netflix. This allows you to access and watch those streaming sites. 

But the ability to unblock can vary. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, depending on the streaming service and the specific region’s library you want to access. It does not guarantee consistent, reliable unblocking of all streaming services worldwide.

Consistently Unblocks Libraries

It can often unblock major streaming services like Netflix so you can watch. However, how successful it is at unblocking specific regional libraries can vary quite a bit. Some users report being able to access certain countries’ Netflix libraries, while other libraries give them trouble and get blocked. 

When streaming companies attempt new methods to block VPN access, their ability to quickly find a workaround is inconsistent. They may not immediately be able to bypass the new blocking until a solution is found later.

Fast Streaming Speeds

Norton primarily utilizes the OpenVPN and IPsec protocols, not WireGuard. OpenVPN and IPsec are still secure and provide decent enough speeds for streaming HD and 4K video content without too much buffering or interruptions. Check out this guide to learn the difference between OpenVPN and IPsec protocol. However, Norton does not currently use WireGuard for streaming purposes.

Simple to Use and Unlimited Data

Norton Secure VPN is designed to be straightforward for anyone to use. You don’t need to do any complicated setups or configurations. It’s simple to just install and start streaming right away. And there are no data caps or limits imposed. You can stream unlimited video content without worrying about hitting any data usage maximums that would cut you off.

While Norton Secure VPN is a good choice for streaming, it might not be as reliable as some other VPNs specifically designed for streaming. If consistent access to multiple streaming libraries is a priority, considering VPNs like ExpressVPN or NordVPN might be beneficial. If you are curious about NordVPN vs Norton Secure VPN, visit vpn.com’s detailed guide for an in-depth guide.

Norton Secure VPN and Streaming Sites

It performs well with various streaming services, offering good speeds and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions. However, there are some inconsistencies in unblocking all regional libraries and the absence of specialized streaming servers. Here is a table summarizing its performance with different streaming platforms:

These insights provide a more nuanced view of Norton Secure VPN’s capabilities with streaming services, ensuring users have realistic expectations about its performance​.

How To Install Norton Secure VPN?

Windows

• Go to the Norton website and purchase a plan.
• Download the Windows app installer.
• Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Open the installed Norton Secure VPN app and log in with your account credentials.

Common Problem: The app crashes or won’t open.

Solution: Ensure you have the latest app version and that your system meets the requirements. Also, check for Windows updates and install them if available.

Mac

• Go to the Norton website and purchase a plan.
• Download the Mac app installer.
• Open the downloaded file and follow the installation wizard.
• Open the app from your Applications folder and log in with your account credentials.

Common Problem: Keychain system prompt issues.

Solution: Close and reopen the app after allowing full permissions in your Keychain Access settings. Ensure the app has the necessary permissions to run.

Android

• Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
• Search for “Norton Secure VPN” and select the app.
• Tap Install, then open the app once installed.
• Log in with your Norton account credentials.

Common Problem: Can’t connect or slow speeds.

Solution: Try a different server location in the app settings. Ensure your network connection is stable. You can also clear the app cache and data if problems persist.

iOS

• Open the App Store on your iPhone/iPad.
• Search for “Norton Secure VPN” and download the app.
• Open the app and log in with your Norton account credentials.

Common Problem: Frequent disconnects when the device locks.

Solution: Enable the “Auto-Connect” option in the VPN settings to maintain a connection even when the device locks. Ensure the app has the necessary permissions in the iOS settings.

Are There Any Known Issues With Using Norton Secure On Particular Types Of Devices Or Operating Systems?

In general, reputable VPN providers like Norton aim to support the latest and most popular devices and operating systems. However, it has a few known issues across different devices due to its limited custom apps and the complexity of manual setup.

Windows and Mac Computers

• Connectivity Issues: Sometimes users have problems connecting to certain VPN servers or staying connected. The connection might randomly drop. This can be frustrating, but it happens occasionally with most VPNs.
• Re-entering Logins: You usually do not have to re-enter your username and password each time you switch servers. This issue may have affected some older versions in the past.
• Limited Customization: It is designed to be simple and easy to use. But this means it does not have as many advanced option settings compared to other VPNs. Tech-savvy users may want more controls to customize.

Android and iPhone/iPad 

• Performance Issues: On mobile devices like phones and tablets, some users report slower internet speeds or connectivity problems when using the Norton VPN app. Performance can be inconsistent.
• Ease of Use: However, the mobile apps for Android and iOS are generally very straightforward and easy for anyone to use. You don’t need to manually configure complex settings.

Routers and Gaming Consoles

Norton does not officially provide support for using their VPN on routers or gaming consoles like Xbox or PlayStation. There are no specific instructions or customer help for these devices. Users wanting to use Norton on routers or consoles may need to find workarounds themselves. Or consider a different VPN service that fully supports those devices.

To have the smoothest experience, it’s best to:

• Make sure you install the newest version of the Norton app.
• Use Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS devices that are fully supported.  
• Consider an alternative VPN if you need advanced customization options or want to use a router or gaming console.

Servers And Locations

Pros and Cons  

Pros

• No Tracking: It says it does not watch or save the websites you go to or files you download. This keeps your online stuff private. But it does collect some tiny bits of info to make the service better.
• Super Strong Codes: It uses super duper strong codes called AES-256 to hide and protect your data and internet activities. Bad guys cannot crack these powerful codes to see your information.
• Servers Everywhere: Norton has over 1,500 servers in 29 countries all around the world. This lets you get any online content from anywhere while keeping your real location a total secret.
• Stream and Download: Norton works great for watching TV shows and movies by unblocking major streaming sites. It also gives you good fast speeds for smooth streaming. However, you cannot download private torrents with it. 
• Helpers Ready: If you ever need any help, you can chat live with helpers any time of day or night.
• Trusted Name: It is a well-known and trusted brand for internet security stuff. So you can trust their VPN service too.

Cons 

• Not As Many Places: While Norton has lots of servers, some other top VPN choices have even more server location options worldwide.
• Not Customization Options: The Norton VPN is made to be simple and easy to use. However, it does not have as many advanced custom option settings as some others.
• Costs More: Compared to some other VPN choices, Norton may cost a little bit more money.
• No Free Version: You cannot try out Norton’s VPN for free first. But you can get your money back if you cancel within 60 days.

Facing Issues?

You may have problems when using Norton Secure VPN. But there are ways to fix issues:

• Check Norton’s Help Website: Look at the guides and frequently asked questions. They explain common problems and how to solve them. The help site shows you step-by-step.
• Ask Customer Support: You can chat live with support helpers anytime. You can also email them or send a support ticket. The helpers are available 24/7 to assist you.
• Update The App: Make sure you have the newest version of the Norton VPN app. Updates fix bugs and make it run better. Check for updates in the app settings or download the latest version.
• Check Your Settings: Look at how you have the VPN set up. Make sure settings like the protocol, kill switch, and server location are correct. Adjust if needed.
• Change Servers: If you can’t connect, try using a different server. Sometimes servers get too full or have temporary issues. Switching servers often fixes this. If you are having difficulty changing the VPN server, you must visit this helpful guide. 
• Check Your Devices: Make sure your devices like phones, computers, etc. are compatible with Norton VPN. Incompatible devices may not work right. Check device requirements on Norton’s website.

The main things are checking its help guides, updating the app, verifying settings, switching servers, and ensuring device compatibility. If issues persist, the support team can further assist you.

Why Buy Norton Secure From VPN.com?

Most users purchase Norton Secure VPN directly from the official website. However, buying from other authorized retailers can sometimes provide better value through bundle deals or special discounted pricing.

Some retailers may offer exclusive introductory packages that bundle Norton Secure VPN with other products at a lower combined price. Their sites also allow you to compare them against competitors easily. Authorized retailers occasionally have limited-time promotional offers or pricing not found on their websites. They may also provide supplementary support services.

However, only purchase Norton Secure VPN from verified, reputable sellers to ensure you receive a legitimate product. Unauthorized third-party stores could potentially sell fake or tampered versions.

Ultimately, it depends on your priorities like bundles, discounts, added support, or a streamlined official purchase experience. Weigh the options, but stick to trusted sources like norton.com or their authorized partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line  

Norton Secure VPN is a good choice for many people. It keeps you safe and private online. The strong encryption hides your activities from hackers and snoops. Having servers all over the world lets you access anything while staying anonymous. This VPN is easy to use on phones, tablets, and computers. Most users can quickly install it without problems. If you do need help, 24/7 live support is available.

It gives you enough speed for most online activities. Videos stream smoothly in HD quality. You can browse normally without slowdowns. Gaming works well, too, with low ping times. It unblocks some major streaming services like Netflix. But it doesn’t consistently unblock everything or allow private torrenting. More tech-savvy users may want a VPN with advanced options that Norton lacks.

While Norton Secure VPN costs a bit more, many feel it’s good value. Especially if bundling with its antivirus software. The ease of use and security from a trusted name offsets the higher price for lots of people. No VPN is perfect though. It has some small issues like inconsistent mobile app performance or lack of region diversity. But overall, it’s a reliable VPN that keeps you safely connected in most situations.

If privacy, security, and trustworthiness are priorities, Norton Secure VPN is worth considering. Just be aware of its limitations too. Do more research if you need a VPN specialized for tasks like torrenting or unblocking all streaming content globally.