In the age of smart homes and always-connected devices, it’s common to have well over 10 gadgets running in a single household. From phones and tablets to smart TVs, gaming consoles, and even refrigerators – everything is online. But what happens when your VPN provider (like NordVPN) caps you at 10 simultaneous device connections?
Here’s how to get around that limitation and secure your entire network.
What Does the 10-Device Limit Actually Mean?
With a standard NordVPN subscription, you can connect up to 10 different devices at once. Each device – whether it’s a smartphone, laptop, or streaming stick – counts individually toward that total.
However, this doesn’t mean you’re stuck at 10. There are smart ways to extend your VPN coverage across your home without needing extra subscriptions or complicated workarounds.
Option 1: Set Up NordVPN on a VPN-Compatible Router
The most efficient method is installing NordVPN directly on your router. This routes all traffic from connected devices through the VPN – and NordVPN only sees one connection (the router).
Recommended Routers for US/UK Users:
- Asus RT-AX88U – Powerful, widely available, and VPN-ready
- Netgear Nighthawk RAX50 – High-performance, great for families
- TP-Link Archer AX6000 – Fast and stable with OpenVPN support
- GL.iNet Flint 2 – Compact, secure, WireGuard-ready
Setup steps (general):
- Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually 192.168.0.1 or similar).
- Upload the OpenVPN or WireGuard config files from NordVPN.
- Save, apply, and test the connection (e.g., via whatismyipaddress.com).
This solution protects devices that don’t support VPN apps, such as:
- Smart TVs (Samsung Tizen, LG webOS)
- Gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch)
- Smart speakers (Amazon Echo, Google Nest)
- IoT devices, smart cameras, and more
Option 2: Share Your VPN Connection from a PC or Mac
Another workaround is sharing your VPN connection directly from a computer.
On Windows 11
- Connect to NordVPN via the app.
- Turn on Mobile Hotspot in network settings.
- Share the VPN-enabled connection with other devices.
On macOS
- Enable “Internet Sharing” in System Preferences.
- Choose the VPN network and share it over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
This method is ideal for travel or temporary setups (Airbnb, hotels, second homes).
Option 3: Use a Second NordVPN Subscription or Multi-Router Setup
For power users, multi-room households, or home offices, you may want to split your network across two routers:
- Router 1 in the living room (e.g., Asus or Netgear with NordVPN setup)
- Router 2 upstairs or in an office (mesh or repeater with separate VPN account)
Or, simply buy a second NordVPN subscription and assign it to devices not covered by the first.
What Devices Work with NordVPN?
NordVPN supports a wide range of devices and operating systems:
- Desktop OS: Windows, macOS, Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian)
- Mobile OS: Android, iOS, HarmonyOS (Huawei)
- Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge (via browser extensions)
- Smart TVs & streamers: Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Chromecast
- Routers & NAS: Synology, QNAP, OPNsense, pfSense, OpenWRT, GL.iNet
Why Use NordVPN on Multiple Devices?
There’s no point in encrypting one device while your others leak data. Today’s digital lifestyles demand full-network VPN protection.
Key Benefits:
- Whole-home security: One setup protects everything connected to your network
- Privacy for everyone: Stream, browse, and work without worrying about tracking
- Geo-unblocking: Watch Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, or Disney+ from anywhere
- Convenience: No constant logins, no switching devices
Final Thoughts: How to Bypass the 10-Device Limit
While NordVPN limits simultaneous connections to 10, you can easily expand coverage using routers, connection sharing, or dual accounts.
For most families, setting up NordVPN on a router like the Asus RT-AX88U or TP-Link Archer AX6000 will be enough to protect every device in the house. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or working remotely – full protection shouldn’t stop at 10 devices.
With the right setup, NordVPN becomes the digital firewall of your home, silently encrypting and protecting all traffic – regardless of how many devices are online.
