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My NordVPN Map Is Gone, So What Are My Best Options Now?
NordVPN made a big change to its app on Windows computers. It took away the world map that many people used. This map was a simple tool. It let you see different server locations around the world and pick one with just a click. Now, that helpful map is gone. In its place, you have to use lists and search bars.
Many people who use NordVPN are not happy about this update. They say the new way is slow and confusing. One person said it feels like a “MAJOR downgrade”. This feeling is shared by many in the NordVPN community. The change has made a simple task feel like a chore.
What Made the Map So Useful?
The map was great because it was visual. You could see all the countries and, in many cases, the specific cities where you could connect. This made it very fast to switch your connection from one place to another. For example, if you wanted to watch a TV show only available in another country, you could find that country on the map and click. It was that easy.
Now, you have to search for a city or scroll through long lists. This takes more time and effort. For people who need to change server locations often for work or streaming, this new system gets in the way. It slows them down and makes using the app more frustrating.
The app still shows a small map at the top, but you can’t click on it. It only shows where you are currently connected. It doesn’t help you choose a new location. This change is not entirely new; Mac users lost the map feature some time ago. This might mean NordVPN is changing its design on all computers.
Why People Are Thinking of Switching
This change has made some longtime users think about finding a new VPN service. On forums like Reddit, people are talking about moving to other providers like ProtonVPN or ExpressVPN. This is especially true for those who paid for NordVPN for several years. They feel stuck with a service that is now harder to use.
This isn’t the only feature NordVPN has removed recently. They also got rid of Meshnet, which was another tool some people really liked. When a company removes useful tools one after another, it can make customers worry about the company’s direction. Users start to wonder if the service will continue to meet their needs in the future.
So far, NordVPN has not given a clear reason for removing the map. Customer support has confirmed the change but has not said if the map will come back.
What You Can Do Now
If you are a Windows user affected by this update, you have a few choices.
Get used to the new lists
You can learn to use the search bar and dropdown menus. It might not be as fast as the map, but it is the new way the app works. You can search for a country and then click the three dots next to it to see a list of available cities.
Do not use an older version
Some people might think about going back to an older version of the app to get the map back. This is not a good idea. Using old software can be a security risk. Updates often fix security problems, so staying with the newest version is the safest choice.
Look for a different VPN
If the map was very important to you, you might want to look at other VPN services. Many other companies offer great VPNs.
- ExpressVPN: This is a major competitor to NordVPN. It is known for being very easy to use, which is great for beginners. It has servers in 105 countries.
- Surfshark: This service is owned by the same parent company as NordVPN. It offers similar high speeds and has a reputation for being a great value. It also allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices at once.
Ultimately, the decision rests with you. You can adapt to the new interface, or you can find a new service that better fits how you like to work. Making your voice heard by contacting NordVPN support is also an option; some users report that the company has said it might bring the map back if enough people ask for it.