Nordlynx vs Openvpn
What is OpenVPN?
OpenVPN is a widely-used, open-source VPN protocol that’s been around since 2001. It’s known for being:
- Highly secure – Uses strong encryption (usually AES-256).
- Flexible – Works on almost all platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, routers, etc.).
- Customizable – You can tweak many settings (like port, encryption type, tunneling mode).
However, OpenVPN:
- Is relatively slow compared to newer protocols.
- Can be complex to set up manually.
- Has a large codebase, which means it’s harder to audit.
Best for: security-conscious users, enterprise networks, or custom VPN setups.
What is NordLynx?
NordLynx is NordVPN’s custom implementation of the WireGuard protocol. It combines the speed and simplicity of WireGuard with extra privacy features.
Key points:
- Based on WireGuard, a modern, fast, and lightweight VPN protocol.
- NordLynx adds a Double NAT system to fix WireGuard’s privacy issue (where user IPs could potentially be exposed).
- Built for speed and performance — much faster than OpenVPN in most cases.
- Automatic in NordVPN apps (you don’t have to configure anything).
Best for: users who want fast, secure, plug-and-play VPN connections.
READ ALSO: What is nordlynx?
Nordlynx VS Openvpn
Speed & Performance
- NordLynx delivers major speed gains—typically 30–50% faster than OpenVPN, with some tests showing 2–3× improvements in throughput and latency. Ideal for streaming, gaming, and large downloads
- OpenVPN is reliable but noticeably slower in real-world use—great for stable connections but limited for high-performance tasks .
Security & Privacy
- Both protocols use strong encryption (AES‑256 for OpenVPN; ChaCha20/Curve25519 for WireGuard/NordLynx)
- NordLynx adds a double NAT system and ephemeral per-session IPs, mitigating WireGuard’s static-assignment privacy risks
- OpenVPN is battle-tested and highly customizable, but its code is more complex (~400,000 lines). Also, it’s vulnerable to fingerprinting or DPI blocking
Usability & Compatibility
- NordLynx is seamless and automatic in NordVPN clients (Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile), defaulting to the fastest and simplest protocοl choice
- OpenVPN requires manual configuration, is widely supported across platforms, and is favored in router and enterprise setups .
Stability & Reliability
- NordLynx generally offers low latency and consistent performance, though occasional issues have been reported—especially on certain Linux setups, requiring tweaks like switching servers or protocols .
- OpenVPN is widely compatible and stable, but may struggle on free public servers or under heavy load
Real-World Feedback
Reddit users often praise NordLynx’s speed and clean interface:
“NordVPN delivers high performance with minimal latency.”
“Nord after all this NordLynx seems helpful… speed even out internet speeds.”
However, some Linux users found OpenVPN to work more reliably in their environment.
Summary Comparison
| Feature | NordLynx | OpenVPN |
|---|---|---|
| Speed & Latency | Excellent (30–50% faster, low ping) | Good, but slower and higher latency |
| Security | WireGuard-based, double NAT, audited | Strong encryption, highly configurable |
| Privacy | Modern per-session IP handling | Stable logging control, but fingerprintable |
| Ease of Use | Seamless, automatic in NordVPN | Manual setup, broad support |
| Stability | Very stable, minor Linux quirks | Consistent, ideal for routers/enterprise |
| Ideal for | Streaming, gaming, travel, mobile | Compatibility-heavy or custom setups |
Final Verdict
If you’re using NordVPN and want maximum performance with top-tier speed and low latency, NordLynx is the clear best choice. It’s fast, secure, and effortless.
Choose OpenVPN if you require broad compatibility, custom configurations (especially in enterprise or router environments), or encounter situations where NordLynx connection fails (e.g., some Linux networks).
TL;DR
- NordLynx = ultra-fast, low-latency, secure, and user-friendly (best overall).
- OpenVPN = slower but rock-solid, flexible, and widely supported.
FAQs
What’s the main difference between NordLynx and OpenVPN?
NordLynx is based on the newer, faster WireGuard protocol and optimized by NordVPN for privacy.
OpenVPN is an older, widely-supported VPN protocol known for stability and security but is generally slower.
Which is faster: NordLynx or OpenVPN?
NordLynx is typically 30–60% faster than OpenVPN, with lower latency and quicker connection times.
This makes it ideal for streaming, torrenting, gaming, or video calls.
Is NordLynx as secure as OpenVPN?
Yes. Both are very secure, but in different ways:
OpenVPN uses AES-256 encryption, well-tested and standard in cybersecurity.
NordLynx uses ChaCha20 encryption (used in WireGuard), with Double NAT to protect your real IP.
Can I use NordLynx on all devices?
Only within NordVPN apps (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS).
You can’t manually configure NordLynx like you can with OpenVPN (e.g., on routers or third-party apps).
Is OpenVPN better for privacy?
OpenVPN has a long track record and offers more manual control over security settings.
NordLynx is private too, but since WireGuard stores some data temporarily (like IPs), NordVPN added Double NAT to make it safer.
Should I switch from OpenVPN to NordLynx?
If you’re using NordVPN, yes — NordLynx is usually the best choice for everyday users because it:
Connects faster
Downloads faster
Uses less battery and CPU
But if you’re using VPNs on routers, or need more custom options, stick with OpenVPN.
Does NordLynx work with streaming services like Netflix?
Yes! It often works better than OpenVPN due to faster speeds and lower detection by streaming services.
Is NordLynx safe for torrenting and P2P?
Absolutely. NordLynx is fast and secure, and NordVPN supports torrenting on P2P-optimized servers.
Hi, this is Masab, the Founder of PC Building Lab. I’m a PC enthusiast who loves to share the prior knowledge and experience that I have with computers. Well, troubleshooting computers is in my DNA, what else I could say….