Last updated: June 15, 2026
Quick Answer
Setting up a VPN takes about 7–10 minutes and requires no technical knowledge. You download an app (like any other app), log in, and press one button. This guide walks through the full process for NordVPN on iPhone, Android, Windows, and Mac — step by step, with no jargon.
When I explain VPNs to people my age, the most common response is: "That sounds complicated."
It isn't. The entire setup process is simpler than connecting a new printer, and you only have to do it once. After that, using a VPN is as simple as turning on a light switch.
This guide assumes you know how to use a smartphone or computer. Nothing else is required.
Before You Start: What You'll Need
- A device (phone, tablet, or computer)
- An internet connection
- A payment method to subscribe to a VPN service
- About 10 minutes
I recommend NordVPN for people over 50 because it has the simplest app and the most reliable streaming access. This guide uses NordVPN as the example, but the process is similar for any major VPN.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
1 Subscribe to NordVPN
Go to nordvpn.com and choose your plan. The 2-year plan offers the best value at approximately A$5.69/month. Enter your email address and payment details. You'll receive a confirmation email immediately.
2 Download the App
On iPhone or iPad: Open the App Store, search "NordVPN", and tap Download.
On Android: Open the Google Play Store, search "NordVPN", and tap Install.
On Windows: Check your confirmation email for the download link, or go to nordvpn.com/download.
On Mac: Open the App Store, search "NordVPN", and click Get.
3 Open the App and Log In
Open NordVPN after installation. Tap "Log In" and enter the email and password you used when subscribing. If you've forgotten your password, click "Forgot Password" — NordVPN will email you a reset link.
4 Press Connect
You'll see a large button (it looks like a power symbol, or just says "Connect"). Press it. That's it. The button will turn green and show "Connected". Your internet is now private and protected.
5 (Optional) Choose a Country for Streaming
If you want to access content from another country — BBC iPlayer from Australia, or US Netflix — tap the "Countries" list and choose United Kingdom or United States. Then press Connect. NordVPN will connect to a server in that country.
How to Know It's Working
When NordVPN is connected, you'll see a green "Protected" or "Connected" status in the app. On the NordVPN website, you can visit nordvpn.com/what-is-my-ip to see what IP address others see — it should show the VPN server's location, not your real one.
Frequently Asked Questions
With NordVPN, the full process from purchase to being connected takes about 7–10 minutes. Download and install takes 3–4 minutes. Logging in and connecting takes another minute or two.
Yes. NordVPN allows up to 6 devices simultaneously on one subscription. That typically covers your phone, laptop, and tablet. Install the app on each device and log in with the same account.
NordVPN has 24/7 live chat support that's genuinely helpful. If you get stuck at any step, click the chat icon on the NordVPN website and a real person will walk you through it. In my experience, wait times are under 2 minutes.
Ready to Get Started?
NordVPN has a 30-day money-back guarantee — no risk if you change your mind.
Read My Full NordVPN Review →