NordVPN Meshnet: device diversity encrypted against adversity
In the post-pandemic world (okay yes, we know infections are still happening and many of us continue to be sensible with facemasks in public places like supermarkets and on planes etc.), people are starting to travel again.
Also in the post-pandemic world, people have (hopefully, arguably, increasingly) understood the need for cyber-related application and data services protection, given that Covid-19 related scams and flams that surfaced throughout the course of the last two and half years.
Combine those factors and you can almost think of an argument for increased use of Virtual Private Network (VPN) technologies, right?
Interestingly then, NordVPN has now announced a brand new feature called Meshnet, which will allow users to connect directly to other devices instead of routing their traffic through a VPN server.
“Whereas a traditional NordVPN connection redirects your Internet traffic through servers, Meshnet lets you create your own NordVPN server, made up of only your own or your friends’ devices, regardless of their location. All that’s needed is a NordVPN subscription,” says Vykintas Maknickas, product strategist at NordVPN.
Meshnet NordVPN main use cases can be divided into three categories:
File sharing
Meshnet overcomes location limitations and allows users to send or receive files from their family members, friends, or colleagues.
Users no longer need to host their work projects on a server in order to make it accessible to other team members or clients (they get access through NordVPN) so the new feature requires two-way consent, so users never have to put their privacy at risk.
Gaming
Meshnet works as a virtual Local Area Network (LAN), so users can play multiplayer games with their friends without needing any LAN cables.
Regardless if they live in a different neighbourhood or a different country, with Meshnet, users can all connect to the same server from various locations and enjoy their time together.
Internet traffic routing
With Meshnet enabled, users on holiday can route their traffic through a laptop left at home, allowing them to browse the Internet with their own IP address.
Whereas a regular NordVPN service routes Internet traffic through VPN servers, in the meantime changing your IP address to that of the server, Meshnet lets you create your own NordVPN server through your own or your friends’ devices, anywhere in the world.
“Our product team has been working relentlessly for the past few years, which really began with the development of our flagship technology — NordLynx — the bedrock behind Meshnet that allows us to provide amplified privacy solutions without sacrificing speed,” says Maknickas.
To use Meshnet (instructions here), users need to update their NordVPN app and make sure they are connected via the NordLynx protocol, then turn it on in the NordVPN app and link up to 10 personal or and 50 external devices.
* Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS devices can route Internet traffic through other devices, but only Windows and Linux devices permit traffic routing through them.
