What Changes Are Happening in NordVPN's Server Upgrade?
NordVPN is undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of its entire VPN server infrastructure, set to complete by the end of 2026. Key technical changes include updating each server to run a newer Linux distribution with an updated kernel and deploying an optimized software stack engineered for better efficiency and scalability. Additionally, each upgraded server receives a new IP address to improve performance and maintain security.
This overhaul is primarily maintenance-focused, aiming to enhance backend stability and automation rather than introduce new features or alter the user experience.
How Will This Upgrade Impact Everyday NordVPN App Users?
Most users who connect through the NordVPN app should notice very little. The app is designed to handle server upgrades smoothly by automatically reconnecting users to available servers if their current connection temporarily drops due to a server reboot. This reconnection usually results in only a brief interruption.
Updates to the NordVPN app accommodate these server transitions by switching users seamlessly to servers in the same region when disruptions occur, all while the kill switch protects user privacy during handovers.
In the long run, users can expect increased network stability, higher capacity during peak times, and fewer performance issues, thanks to the well-planned upgrade and the network operating below maximum capacity to ensure room for demand spikes.
What Should Users With Manual VPN Setups Do to Avoid Service Interruptions?
Users who configure NordVPN connections manually, such as via OpenVPN configuration files on routers, network-attached storage (NAS), or standalone Linux systems, need to take special action. Because each server's IP address changes during the upgrade, manual configurations pointing to old IPs or servers will stop working when the upgrade occurs.
To continue accessing the VPN without interruption, manual setup users must download updated configuration files from the manual setup section of their NordVPN account after the respective server has been upgraded. These new files are clearly marked with a "Verified" badge to distinguish them from outdated configurations.
Failing to update these config files will result in connection failures until the correct files are applied. Therefore, proactively checking for updates periodically during the upgrade period is crucial for users with manual setups.
Final Takeaway for NordVPN Users During the Server Overhaul
If you use NordVPN through official apps, this extensive server upgrade will be mostly invisible and cause no major disruptions beyond possible short reconnections. The improved server software and infrastructure promise more reliable connections and better overall performance once complete.
However, if you rely on manually configured VPN connections using OpenVPN configs or similar methods, updating your config files promptly after each server upgrade is essential. Keeping these files up to date prevents unexpected disconnections and ensures continuous VPN service throughout the transition.
Overall, this upgrade strengthens NordVPN's network durability and scalability, benefitting all users in the long term, provided manual configuration users stay vigilant with updates.