What is NordVPN SmartDNS 2024? Smart DNS feature is useful for spoofing your location on games consoles, smart TVs and streaming devices, but it won’t encrypt your data.
NordVPN SmartDNS features makes you efficient to bypass geo-restrictions on any media streaming service which is not available in your region. If you think that you have to buy it separately then you are wrong because it is also included in the NordVPN subscription. So you don’t need to pay extra for SmartDNS.
Apart from it, you can access a wide range of NordVPN servers which are located in 59 countries to unblock the streaming services. SmartDNS uses no encryption which means it doesn’t protect your privacy and hides your IP address. It is only used for media streaming only.
The best thing about SmartDNS of NordVPN is that its reaches devices that don’t support Virtual Private Networks like your TV.
What Exactly Is NordVPN SmartDNS 2024?
Before using it you need to know about the features of SmartDNS NordVPN and why should you use it.
When you are using NordVPN your web data is routed through a VPN server and this procedure switches your IP address and secures your ingoing or outgoing data.
Nobody will be able to see what you do online while your session is open.
However, using NordVPN’s SmartDNS does not involve any encryption.
Instead, NordVPN’s DNS servers route your queries through them, hiding your location and giving the impression that you’re someplace else entirely.
To enjoy the SmartDNS latest feature, use NordVPN while accessing restricted streaming sites in your region.
Therefore, NordVPN’s SmartDNS isn’t accessible through a user interface.
The apps for NordVPN need this capability.
This means you use the NordVPN settings on your device to change your DNS settings and redirect all of your Web traffic to NordVPN Smart DNS. Many devices today do not support VPN software.
For example, a VPN cannot be set up on many smart TVs, streaming media players, or gaming consoles.
But you can change your DNS settings on all of those gadgets. This means that almost every device can be used with NordVPN’s SmartDNS.
Additionally, since there is no encryption, the speed of your Web connection won’t decrease.
Although you can only unblock a small number of streaming devices with NordVPN SmartDNS.
After a lot of research, we find that you can use it with
- Disney Plus
- Amazon prime Videos
- HBO Max
- Netflix
- ABC Go
How Does NordVPN SmartDNS Work?
Nord VPN SmartDNS feature is powered by proxy servers which are run by NordVPN.
Your data will start moving through the US-based proxy servers once you change your device’s DNS to the Nord DNS server. The IP address you use will not change.
Here is how your traffic will go from your device to the website you want to unblock when you first use SmartDNS NordVPN.
- Your Device > SmartDNS server > End Website
How that traffic comes back to you is seen here
- End Website > Your Device
Here are some additional details about How NordVPN SmartDNS work.
When you connect to Nord SmartDNS your DNS requests are transmitted to NordVPN servers
The IP addresses of the websites or services you are trying to connect are returned by NordVPN’s servers after the DNS requests have been resolved.
Your device then created a connection to the website or service by using the IP address provided by NordVPN’s servers.
Difference Between NordVPN Vs SmartDNS Vs SmartPlay
When you log in for NordVPN subscription you get these three services: NordVPN, SmartDNS vs SmartPlay.
If you are still confused then don’t worry because I will clear your all doubt by explaining all of them.
Before a brief explanation, I will explain to you the primary roles:
- NordVPN: It gives you 5000+ servers across 60 countries and it has the ability to encrypt or hide your data. For more detailing, you can check out the NordVPN review.
- SmartDNS: It is used for media streaming and with SmartDNS you have the ability to unblock service that is not accessible in your region.
- SmartPlay: This combines the regular and SmartDNS features of NordVPN. It operates in the background (via the apps from NordVPN) and enables you to utilize certain VPN servers to unblock media streaming services. Your data is encrypted in addition.
If you want a brief explanation then you will find it below.
Security & Data Protection
You can use OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordLynx with NordVPN.
All three VPN protocols are quite safe.
Additionally, they combine AES-256 NGE (Next Generation Encryption), which basically removes your sensitive data from the Internet.
So, NordVPN’s apps have the ability to protect you when you wish to stop digital tracking and secure your privacy online.
Also, NordVPN’s SmartDNS isn’t designed for privacy.
As mentioned before, websites are tricked into believing you are somewhere else with NordVPN SmartDNS.
That is made possible by Nord DNS servers, which simply forward your traffic without any encryption. There is no data privacy because there is no encryption. NordVPN config files provides stable connection and support various protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN.
The SmartDNS capability is therefore used for media streaming and occasional website unblocking.
NordVPN Vs SmartPlay Vs SmartDNS Speed & Performance
NordVPN is one of the fastest VPN service. That is because there is a lot of customization available.
You can select any of NordVPN’s 5,000+ standard or specialized servers and change VPN protocols. If you do so, you may optimize your VPN connection and achieve speeds with little speed throttling.
SmartDNS of NordVPN is not a VPN.
Your data is not transferred using a VPN protocol nor is it secured. Your Web connection won’t lose speed as a result of getting clear of the “overhead.”
Even though Nord’s SmartDNS servers can only be found in the US, your Web connection will always be incredibly quick. For example, even if you join from a different part of the world.
Media Streaming Capabilities Of NordVPN Vs SmartPlay Vs SmartDNS
You can use NordVPN Smartplay for media streaming, and believe me by using it you can unblock and watch any streaming service.
You need to take a server whereas NordVPN’s SmartPlay combines its VPN and SmartDNS functions.
It operates without any adjustments in the background.
According to my experiments, NordVPN is the best VPN for streaming, and it unblocks numerous other services including Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and BBC iPlayer.
SmartDNS does not have an interface, like NordVPN. You need to enter two DNS addresses into your device’s settings if you want to use it.
After doing this, Nord will start routing your data through its SmartDNS servers. As you can see, a limitation of NordVPN’s SmartDNS is that you are unable to select a server.
Device Coverage of NordVPN Vs SmartPlay Vs SmartDNS
To access NordVPN with SmartDNS or SmartPlay feature you need to install NordVPN for Windows, Android, or mac devices.
NordVPN multiple devices helps you to connect popular devices such as Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and furthermore devices.
Even you can download it on your router.
NordVPN is working with up to six devices simultaneously.
You can download its app on many devices which you want but you only have up to 6 devices to connect.
When it comes to NordVPN SmartDNS you can set it on any device.
But the majority of the time this
But the majority of the time this is used on devices that don’t allow VPN apps.
is used on devices that don’t allow VPN apps.
Such as Game consoles, Smart TV’s, and dedicated media streaming devices.
Although all these devices don’t support VPN they only support SmartDNS.
What Are The Benefits And Limitations of The NordVPN Smart DNS?
Here we have written the pros and cons of Nord SmartDNS features that help you to how worthful it is for you.
Benefits of NordVPN SmartDNS
- Nord SmartDNS work on also those devices that is not compatible with VPN.
- SmartDNS helps you to access or watch those content or streaming services, website, and online content that is not available in your region.
- SmartDNS doesn’t encrypt your traffic which means it gives you a faster speed as compared to VPN.
- It has an easy-to-use interface so anybody can use it without any technical knowledge. You only have to change your DNS settings to NordVPN servers.
Limitations of NordVPN SmartDNS
- It does not encrypt your traffic so your ISP can still see the websites you are visiting.
- SmartDNS users can be blocked by some streaming providers because not all streaming services might be compatible.
How To Set Up NordVPN SmartDNS?
Here you will see how to set up Nord SmartDNS on a smart TV, streaming devices, and game consoles. So just read the all noted steps you use NordVPN Smart DNS in mentioned devices.
Set Up NordVPN SmartDNS on Smart TV
Before the instruction keep in mind that you need a Smart TV VPN that makes you customize DNS settings.
- Visit the NordVPN website and create an account. You can choose any plan recommended NordVPN 3 Years deal.
- Download the NordVPN app for your Smart TV after creating an account. The majority of popular Smart TV platforms, including Samsung, LG, Sony, and Panasonic, support the app.
- Open the NordVPN application and log in using your account information.
- Choose the “SmartDNS” option.
- Enter your NordVPN username and password.
- Click the “Save” button.
- Your Smart TV will now be using Nord SmartDNS.
Set Up SmartDNS NordVPN on Media Streaming.
You can utilize Nord VPN SmartDNS on those media streaming that is not compatible with VPN such as Apple TV.
Just follow the all instructions carefully to set up SmartDNS of NordVPN on media streaming.
- The device you’ll use to set up SmartDNS and the device you’ll use to stream media must be connected to the same network. Consider the WiFi in your home.
- Access your Nord account by a computer or smartphone. You can access the NordVPN dashboard by filling out your login and password.
- In the ‘Services’ area, click ‘NordVPN’ on the left. Click ‘Activate’ under the ‘SmartDNS’ area on the right. Now that your IP address has been registered and added to a whitelist, Nord’s SmartDNS is active.
- On your media streaming device, you must complete the remaining steps of the process. Specifically, you must access the Internet settings on your smartphone, which are normally found in the Settings app.
- As shown on your Nord dashboard, enter the primary DNS (103.86.99.103) and secondary DNS (103.86.96.103). Check your numbers one more time to make sure they are correct, then go back to the main screen of your streaming device. You are welcome to test SmartDNS with any media streaming application.
Set Up NordVPN SmartDNS on Game Consoles
Nord SmartDNS is compatible with Playstation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch consoles.
- You need to be on the same network as your console in order to activate SmartDNS.
- To log into NordVPN, use your computer or smartphone. after entering your login information you’ll enter your Nord Account dashboard.
- Select “NordVPN” from the sidebar on the left. Utilize the “Activate” button on the right. Wait a few moments for NordVPN to register your IP address and turn on SmartDNS.
- The process will be completed on your gaming console. Be sure to open the settings app and locate the options for Web connectivity. Discovering DNS-related settings is your objective.
- Feel free to go back to your console’s home screen after changing the DNS addresses (primary: 103.86.99.103 / secondary: 103.86.96.103). When utilizing any video streaming application, use SmartDNS.
By following these steps you can setup the smart DNS on NordVPN which is also a best VPN to access DraftKings Sportsbook legally.
What Should I Do When NordVPN SmartDNS Not Working?
You don’t need to be worried if your SmartDNS NordVPN not working. You only have to try the below-noted method that might be helpful for you.
- Check Your Internet Connection
- Restart Your Device
- Clear Your DNS cache
- Change Your DNS Setting
- Contact NordVPN Support System
Which DNS Does NordVPN Use?
NordVPN makes use of private DNS servers with IP numbers 103.86.96.100 and 103.86.99.100. You automatically connect to the private DNS servers of the company whenever you connect to a NordVPN server. This provides quick DNS query processing while blocking DNS leaks when you’re connected to the VPN.
Is Nord SmartDNS Legal?
Yes, NordVPN SmartDNS is legal to use. Even you have the full right to change your DNS settings and the DNS server that you want to use.
So you don’t need to be worried because after using SmartDNS you won’t get any trouble.
What Does A NordVPN SmartDNS Do?
Your DNS requests are redirected by smart DNS, and any location information disappears to allow access to geo-restricted websites. In situations in which using a VPN isn’t possible, smart DNS services can be an excellent alternative.
Is Nord SmartDNS Safe In 2024?
Yes, NordVPN Smart DNS is perfectly safe to use in 2024. Even so, keep in mind that it does not mask your IP address or encrypt your connection, making it unable to protect you online or get over IP bans.
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