I've been using MX for the last couple of years without system wide VPN. Since last year I have a NordVPN subscription I'm really content with. Lately, I've been connecting to the internet using VPN through the NetworkManager Applet.
NordVPN also provides a terminal app which offers great additional features (CyberSec, KillSwitch etc.) but for some reason blocks smb/cifs/samba connection on my home network to and from my desktop computer running MX. It's working problem free when the NetworkManager Applet handles the VPN connection, but I do miss the features that the terminal app offers.
Has anyone had this problem and found a solution?

Thanks all!