Kill switch

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Kill switch is a security feature designed to protect users when an unexpected VPN connection drop occurs. When enabled, kill switch automatically blocks all internet traffic if your VPN connection is lost, ensuring that your data remains secure and private at all times.

The feature prevents potential data leaks and ensures that your browsing activity, personal information, and company resources stay protected even when VPN connectivity issues arise. This is especially important for users handling sensitive information or working with confidential business data.

How does kill switch work?

Here's the main process flow of kill switch:

  1. User browses the internet while connected to a VPN server.
  2. VPN connection to the server is unexpectedly lost (for any reason).
  3. All internet traffic for that browser session is immediately blocked, preventing users from loading new content.
  4. When the VPN connection is restored or user connects to a new server, all internet traffic is unblocked and normal browsing resumes.

How to enable Kill switch

Both Organization Administrators and Members can enable kill switch for their individual devices.

Windows

  1. Click the NordLayer icon in the system tray area of the taskbar and select the cogwheel icon.
  2. In the opened settings window, click a box near the Kill switch under the General tab in the settings menu.

Additionally, Organization Administrators can centrally manage Kill switch using presets, allowing them to configure and enforce the feature organization-wide for all members.

macOS

  1. Click the NordLayer icon on the menu bar and click the cogwheel icon.
  2. In the opened settings window, select the toggle for the Kill switch setting.

Android

  1. In the home menu, click the cogwheel icon.
  2. In the opened settings menu, scroll down to the general section and select Kill switch.
  3. You'll need to grant additional permissions, so follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. After you reconnect, the kill switch feature will be enabled.

iOS

  1. In the home menu, click the cogwheel icon.
  2. In the opened settings menu, scroll down to the general section and select Kill switch.
  3. After reconnection, kill switch will be enabled.

Linux

The only way to enable kill switch is via terminal:

nordlayer settings set

Select setting to change:
1: Preferred VPN Protocol
2: Auto-connect
3: ThreatBlock
4: Always On
5: Kill switch

Select [number]: 5

Kill switch and local network services

While Kill switch significantly enhances your online security, it may limit certain local network services, such as AirDrop, CarPlay, or other device-to-device connections on the local network. To continue using these services, you may need to disable kill switch temporarily or configure your local network permissions accordingly.

Note: In case you have any questions or are experiencing any issues, please feel free to contact our 24/7 customer support team.