Norton Secure VPN Review 2024: A VPN Worthy of Your Buck?

Designed by the well-established cybersecurity company Norton, the creator of Norton antivirus and Norton LifeLock, Norton Secure VPN combines reliable service with a clean and easy-to-use interface. This VPN service boasts features like strong data encryption, streaming support, and up to 10 simultaneous connections.

For those concerned about online security or wishing to unblock geo-restricted content, Norton Secure VPN might just be the ideal solution. We’ll break down all you need to know about its features, pricing, and compatibility, among other aspects, in our comprehensive Norton VPN review.

3.9

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On Norton Secure VPN's website

Norton Secure VPN

Up to 50% off

• VPN part of the trusted Norton security suite
• Unblocks multiple streaming services
• Some data logged

Norton Secure VPN review at a glance

Who is Norton Secure VPN best for?

• Norton Secure VPN is highly recommended for those who prioritize online security and data privacy, particularly those who are already customers of Norton's other security products.

As a product of Norton, a renowned cybersecurity company, Norton Secure VPN integrates with the company's suite of security tools. This VPN offers a no-logs policy intended to safeguard your data from potential online threats. (Though Norton’s headquarters in the U.S. could be problematic.)

Norton Secure VPN is also suitable for those who enjoy streaming geo-restricted content, as it allows seamless Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer access. With a price range of $2.49–$4.99/mo for the first yr, it offers a competitive pricing model, particularly for those who opt for long-term subscriptions. And if you're unsure, there's a 60-day money-back guarantee you can take advantage of to save money on a VPN.

Norton Secure VPN pros and cons

Norton VPN prices and subscriptions

Norton Secure VPN offers a range of subscription plans tailored to fit different needs. The pricing depends on the number of devices you wish to protect. Compared to other VPNs, Norton Secure VPN offers competitive pricing, especially its annual plans.

The monthly plans start at $2.49/mo for one device, $3.33/mo for five devices, and $4.99/mo for 10 devices, which are introductory prices for the first year.

While these prices are in line with industry standards, where Norton really shines is in its annual subscriptions. The annual plans come in at about $29.99/yr for one device, $39.99/yr for five devices, and $59.99/mo for 10 devices, making Norton Secure VPN an attractive option if you’re seeking a cost-effective VPN solution.

Norton Secure VPN cost

As far as payment methods, Norton accepts the following:

• Credit card
• PayPal
• Google Pay

Norton VPN with antivirus prices

For those seeking comprehensive online security solutions, Norton offers great value by bundling its Secure VPN with its highly-rated Norton 360 antivirus software. This combination provides even more protection against online threats like malware while ensuring your privacy and data security.

Small businesses managing confidential client data, individuals conducting online banking, or parents wishing to ensure safe browsing for their kids could find these packages highly beneficial. Check out our Norton Antivirus review for more information.

Norton antivirus + VPN cost

Norton VPN features

Norton Secure VPN impresses with its secure and user-friendly interface, bank-grade encryption, and even a tracker blocker. However, advanced users might find some features lacking, such as dedicated torrenting servers and certain advanced privacy features like an ad and malware blocker.

Server count and countries

• Unlisted number of servers in 28 countries

Norton Secure VPN doesn't list the number of VPN servers on its site, but customer support let us know that it has servers in 28 countries. This could be of concern if you're seeking a large server network since you can't really confirm it with Norton. 

A higher server count and a wide variety of server locations mean you're less likely to encounter congested servers that can slow down your internet speed. Plus, more server locations mean more options for bypassing geolocation restrictions.

No-logs policy and headquarters

• Norton Secure VPN logs policy: Some logs
• Norton headquarters: Tempe, Arizona, United States

Norton Secure VPN claims to be a no-logs VPN, but it does gather some data in accordance with the Norton LifeLock Global Privacy Statement. This includes your device name and type, IP address, as well as usage data to prevent service abuse. Norton notes this data is encrypted and stored while you use the VPN or for a max of 36 months. (Your IP address is not stored according to Norton.)

Additionally, Norton is headquartered in the United States. The location of a VPN's headquarters can affect the level of privacy it offers due to differing national laws and regulations regarding the collection of user data.

In the case of Norton VPN, being based in the United States could raise concerns since the U.S. is part of the Five Eyes alliance. However, the VPN’s no-logs policy somewhat mitigates this risk, as there’s limited user activity data to surrender, even if Norton is obliged to provide it by law.

Security features

Norton Secure VPN offers the standard VPN features, including a kill switch and split tunneling. We were also surprised to see some additional features:

• Kill switch: If your VPN connection drops, a kill switch disconnects your device from the internet. This prevents your IP address and online activity from being exposed. Norton's kill switch is available with its Windows, macOS, and Android apps only. You can find a toggle for it under the VPN settings menu.
• Split tunneling: This feature allows you to choose apps that can bypass the VPN connection, which can be useful if you want to protect your browsing activity while simultaneously accessing local network devices or services — or if some of your apps don't function correctly over a VPN connection. Split tunneling is only available with its Windows and Android apps. You can add which apps you wish to exclude in the VPN settings menu.
• VPN protocols: Norton Secure VPN uses the OpenVPN protocol and the L2TP/IPsec protocols depending on which device you're using.
  
• Ad tracker blocking: This feature blocks advertisers from tracking your online activity and targeting you with ads. You can also toggle it on from the VPN settings menu.

Norton Secure VPN test results

When assessing the value and performance of any VPN, rigorous testing is essential. We evaluate the impact of the VPN on internet speed, the reliability of its security features, and its ability to access geo-restricted content across various streaming platforms. Our objective is to give you a practical sense of what to expect from the VPN in everyday use.

Speed tests

Our speed tests with Norton Secure VPN returned satisfactory results, indicating minor reductions in speed when compared to our internet connection without VPN. These tests were conducted on a Windows PC with a stable broadband connection.

We were surprised to see all of our download speeds and upload speeds dropped about the same amount, regardless of server location. The US server actually had the slowest download speeds, but not by a significant margin. Latency was where we saw the biggest drops, with the U.K. and Australia dropping significantly.

We expect to see some decrease in performance while using a VPN since VPNs tend to slow down your internet. And higher latency while connected to servers located further away is also reasonable since distance greatly influences how much latency you experience.

Our baseline internet speed without the VPN turned on recorded a download speed of 102.04 Mbps, an upload speed of 11.84 Mbps, and a latency of 13 ms.

Norton Secure VPN speed test results

Norton VPN Netflix tests

Norton Secure VPN emerged successful in our Netflix tests, demonstrating its capability to bypass geo-restrictions for accessing streaming content.

One of the major reasons for using a VPN while streaming Netflix is to gain access to the libraries of different regions. Shows and movies on Netflix are geo-restricted due to licensing agreements, meaning what's available to stream can differ from one country to another.

With Norton Secure VPN, we could watch Netflix content from the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia without any noticeable issues, lag, or buffering.

Norton Secure VPN Netflix test results

Norton is reported to unblock content on other streaming services, including Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO Max (now just “Max”), and Amazon Prime Video.

DNS and WebRTC leak tests

• DNS leak test results: Passed
• WebRTC leak test results: Passed

Norton Secure VPN passed both our DNS and WebRTC leak tests, reinforcing its reliability in preserving your online privacy and security.

DNS (Domain Name System) is often described as the phonebook of the internet. It translates user-friendly website names into their corresponding IP addresses. A DNS leak occurs when queries to this system aren’t entirely routed through the VPN, potentially exposing your original IP address to the ISP or any eavesdropper monitoring the network.

WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is a collection of technologies that enable web applications and sites to directly share audio, video, and data without needing an intermediate server. While useful, WebRTC can potentially leak your original IP address, even when a VPN is active. A WebRTC leak test checks for this vulnerability.

Norton VPN compatibility

One crucial aspect of a reliable VPN service is its compatibility with different devices and platforms. Whether you're using a PC, a smartphone, or a tablet, you want a VPN that can protect all your devices.

Norton Secure VPN offers solid compatibility, providing support for the most common operating systems and mobile devices:

• Windows 7, 8 and 8.1, 10, and 11
• macOS 10.12.x (Sierra) or later
• Android 8.0 or later
• iOS and iPadOS running the current and previous two versions

Unfortunately, if you’re seeking a VPN for Linux or for your router, you’ll have to find another service provider.

Norton Secure VPN customer support

Norton provides 24/7 live chat and phone support, along with a support center full of guides and tutorials that are easy to follow. The representatives behind the live chat are highly responsive and knowledgeable. They provide clear and concise answers while seeking to ensure customer satisfaction.

The online support center features guides covering all common issues, setup instructions, and tips. They’re well-written and easily understandable for all levels of VPN users.

Norton Secure VPN alternatives

While Norton Secure VPN is a reliable choice for many users, it's important to note that several other credible alternatives are available on the market. Depending on your specific needs, you might find one of our best VPN services a better fit.

• NordVPN: Known for its robust security features and excellent speed, NordVPN boasts a network of over 5,000 servers spread across 60 countries. It also supports P2P sharing and unblocks several streaming platforms, including Netflix. See how this top name in cybersecurity compares in our NordVPN vs. Norton Secure VPN review.
  
  Get NordVPN | Read NordVPN Review
  
• Surfshark: Surfshark offers an excellent balance of speed, security, and affordability. It features an extensive server network, military-grade encryption, and a no-logs policy. Notably, Surfshark offers unlimited device connections, making it an excellent choice for large households or those with numerous devices.
  
  Get Surfshark | Read Surfshark Review
  
• ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is highly praised for its exceptional speeds, strong security features, and ability to bypass geo-restrictions on most streaming platforms. It operates servers in 105 countries. These ensure a reliable and fast connection virtually anywhere in the world.
  
  Get ExpressVPN | Read ExpressVPN Review

Norton VPN FAQs

Bottom line: Is Norton Secure VPN good?

Norton Secure VPN provides a solid mixture of simplicity, security, and performance. With good value for money and an easy-to-use interface, it’s a worthy choice for casual VPN users and VPN beginners.

Norton’s VPN doesn’t provide as many advanced features as other VPN providers like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. And some of its features, like the kill switch and split tunneling, are limited to its Windows and Android apps.

If you’re seeking a simple, user-friendly VPN that’s capable of unblocking streaming services, then Norton Secure VPN is a great choice. Bundling the VPN is a great option if you already use or plan to use other Norton products. On the other hand, if you want a VPN with more advanced features and numerous protocols, there are better options that we cover in our best VPNs review.

3.9

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On Norton Secure VPN's website

Norton Secure VPN

Up to 50% off

• VPN part of the trusted Norton security suite
• Unblocks multiple streaming services
• Some data logged

Author Details

Ryan L. Clancy

About the Author

Ryan Clancy is a freelance writer and blogger. With 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, he's passionate about all things engineering and tech. He loves bringing engineering (especially mechanical) down to a level that everyone can understand.