Connect to the internet securely
Hotspot Shield Basic – Free VPN Proxy Privacy is a free VPN service application for unblocking websites and applications. AnchorFree GmbH also offers an upgraded version that removes the ads and gives you unlimited data transfer as well as full access to all available server locations and features.
Hotspot Shield Basic can also be used for other purposes such as protecting your privacy and personal information or accessing the internet without limitations or concerns. They assist you in routing your internet traffic through a server, making it more difficult for anyone to track your online activities.
Unblock restricted websites
The Hotspot Shield Basic app has a simple interface that allows easy navigation. You can get started with a single button. However, the app requires access authority before connecting, which can be granted from the settings menu. When you press the connect button, it automatically chooses the best location for the fastest connection speed. Nonetheless, you have the option of selecting from other locations.
This application has been created with internet security in mind. To accomplish this, the developers used an SSL connection, which is a standard that ensures the security of your information. This prevents your information from being stolen and your privacy from being violated. It also provides other features, such as extended battery life that allows you to extend your phone’s battery life with the touch of a button.
This VPN has deep cleaning, which searches for unused files and photos and suggests that you delete them. Moreover, it grants app protection, which allows you to safeguard a specific app while using it over an insecure internet connection. However, one of its disadvantage is the number of advertisements you must watch to connect if you use the free version.
P2P Support and Torrenting Capabilities
Hotspot Shield VPN is a torrent-friendly service that offers seamless P2P support across all its servers. Users can easily download torrents using any of the available clients, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. There are no bandwidth limits or restrictions, ensuring an enjoyable experience for users who engage in torrenting activities.
Device Compatibility and Manual Setup
This VPN service offers extensive device compatibility, with apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It also provides a command line app for Linux and a TV app for Amazon Fire TV or smart TVs with Google Play access. For users seeking to set up the VPN on other platforms like routers, Hotspot Shield has step-by-step guides on its support site for manual configuration.
Hydra Protocol and Encryption
Hotspot Shield uses its proprietary Hydra protocol, which is based on TLS 1.2 and employs AES-256 and AES-128 encryption, 2048-bit RSA certificates for server authentication, and Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman (ECDHE) for perfect forward secrecy. Although the code is not open source, the VPN service ensures that users’ data is protected using top-notch encryption technologies.
Privacy Policy and Logging Practices
The company’s privacy policy clearly states that Hotspot Shield’s VPN products do not log IP addresses, device identifiers, or any other form of identifier in combination with VPN browsing activity. However, some logging does occur, including the duration of VPN sessions, the bandwidth consumed, and the domains accessed in an anonymized manner. Although this information cannot be linked to specific VPN browsing activity, users should be aware of these logging practices.
Kill Switch Performance
Hotspot Shield’s apps feature a kill switch that prevents IP leaks by blocking the internet connection if the VPN connection drops. While tests showed that the kill switch works well in most common scenarios, some extreme situations revealed potential vulnerabilities, where the kill switch failed to activate and left the device unprotected.
Unblocking Streaming Services
The VPN excels in unblocking popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Users can gain access to Netflix libraries in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Japan, as well as other platforms like BBC iPlayer, ITV, and Channel 4. Hotspot Shield’s impressive unblocking capabilities make it an excellent choice for streaming enthusiasts.
Customer Support and Knowledge Base
Hotspot Shield offers live chat support and a comprehensive knowledge base organized by platform and categories like Payments and Subscriptions, Manage Account, and Common Issues. The support team is friendly and knowledgeable, providing quick assistance when needed. Although there is room for improvement in the support site’s content, users can find most of the essential information and rely on live chat support for additional help.
Never be worried about hackers
Hotspot Shield Basic – Free VPN Proxy Privacy is an excellent private network service application that allows you to unblock websites and apps. It can also be used for other purposes, such as protecting your privacy and personal information when accessing the internet. This app has a simple interface that allows for easy navigation; you can start using it by pressing a single button.
