> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://meshnet.nordvpn.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://meshnet.nordvpn.com/features/routing-traffic-in-meshnet/traffic-routing-windows.md).
# Routing traffic from Windows
## Before you begin
To start using traffic routing, make sure that the device you want to route traffic through meets the following criteria:
* The NordVPN app is running, and the Meshnet feature is enabled in the app.
* The device is connected to your Meshnet.
* The **Traffic routing through your device** permission is granted for your client device. To learn more, see [Traffic routing permissions](/features/explaining-permissions/traffic-routing-permissions.md).
{% hint style="info" %}
**Note**
You can add devices to your Meshnet in two ways, depending on device ownership:
* To add your own device, just enable Meshnet on that device. See [Using Meshnet on Windows](/getting-started/how-to-start-using-meshnet/using-meshnet-on-windows.md#add-your-devices-to-meshnet) for details.
* To add an external device, send an invitation via the NordVPN app with the owner's email. Ensure the invitation is accepted. See [Adding external Meshnet devices on Windows](/features/linking-devices-in-meshnet/adding-meshnet-devices-on-windows.md).
{% endhint %}
## Start routing traffic
To start a traffic routing connection on Windows, follow these steps:
1. Open **NordVPN**.
2. Do one of the following:
1. At the top of the screen, click **Search all locations**.
2. Under the map, click **All locations >**.
3. Select the **Meshnet** tab.
4. Locate the device that you want to route traffic through and click it.
Once connected, you will see the host device’s details on the main app screen.
{% hint style="success" %}
**Tip**
If you see "No permission" under the desired device, ensure that the peer device has granted your device the [traffic routing permissions](/features/explaining-permissions/traffic-routing-permissions.md#changing-permissions).
{% endhint %}
{% hint style="info" %}
**Note**
When routing traffic for the first time, you will receive a prompt detailing the caveats of traffic routing. Read this information and click **Continue** to proceed with the connection.
{% endhint %}
{% hint style="success" %}
**Tip**
You can utilize your preferred DNS addresses for the traffic routing connection by using the app's Custom DNS feature. The DNS servers can be entered in NordVPN **Profile** **>** **Settings**  > **Connection and security** > **Use custom DNS** dropdown menu.
An example of how to use the custom DNS functionality is available in the [How to set up your network protection with Pi-hole](/how-to/security/pi-hole.md#with-a-vpn-connection) article.
{% endhint %}
## Stop routing traffic
To terminate the traffic routing connection, use one of the following methods:
1. Click the **Disconnect** button on the main app screen.
2. Click the host device again in the **Meshnet** tab of search.
{% hint style="info" %}
**Note**
Connection pause is not available while routing traffic through a Meshnet peer device.
{% endhint %}
---
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