NordLocker: The New Cloud Encryption Solution by NordVPN
This article was updated on March 19, 2020.
There is a new encryption solution on the market. Just like our encryption solution Boxcryptor, NordLocker encrypts cloud services with zero-knowledge encryption before data is moved to the cloud. Let’s take a closer look at what the newcomer can do and how it compares to long-standing cloud encryption solutions like Boxcryptor.
The service works similar to Boxcryptor, but has its disadvantages. In short: It does not offer versions for mobile devices.
How NordLocker Works
Similar to Boxcryptor’s first version Boxcryptor Classic, NordLocker works with a secure folder, the so-called locker, in which files can be stored in encrypted form. In order to use the software, an account must first be created. The software comes in a chic dark mode, the focus is clearly on attractive UI.
NordVPN: VPN Provider Expands its Product Portfolio
The company behind NordLocker is Tefincom & Co., S.A. (Société anonyme) and is based in Panama, Costa Rica. Since 2012 it has been developing the VPN service NordVPN, which is available for private users and companies.
Encryption at NordLocker
Nordlocker encrypts data end-to-end and with zero knowledge standard, just like Boxcryptor. It offers client-side encryption, which means that the data on the device is encrypted before it ends up in the cloud.
Since NordLocker, unlike Boxcryptor, does not have versions for Android or iOS, users cannot access their encrypted cloud data on their smartphones and tablets.
Pricing Model and Price Comparison with Boxcryptor
The price model is similar to Boxcryptor’s “Freemium” model. There is a free version with which you can encrypt 2 GB. In comparison: With Boxcryptor Free, an unlimited amount of data can be encrypted and used (encrypted and decrypted) with one cloud provider on two devices.
In the beginning, NordLocker cost an impressive amount of $8 per month for monthly payment ($96 per year). For annual payment it cost $60 (approx. 54€) and only with a 3-year subscription NordLocker approached the price range of Boxcryptor with $35 per year.
Now, they do not offer a three-year plan anymore and their premium version is much cheaper. You pay $1 per month with a yearly subscription.
The full version of Boxcryptor for private use costs $48 per year, or 36$ per year with a three-year subscription. Students get a discount.
Conclusion: Boxcryptor vs. NordLocker
The encryption method used by NordLocker is very similar to that of Boxcryptor. However, we in Augsburg no longer work with a locker, but with a virtual drive.
A big disadvantage is that NordLocker can currently only be used on Windows and macOS. The fact that encrypted cloud data cannot be accessed from smartphones or tablets is a major limitation and, in our opinion, not appropriate for a working world in which numerous devices, models and operating systems are in use.
Summary
- NordLocker does not offer mobile versions.
- The software was expensive, but is now very cheap. With the free version, there is a limit on how much cloud data you can encrypt.
- Currently, NordLocker does not offer features for teams (groups) and companies.
