Hotspot Shield 2.88

Hotspot Shield is a free software that allows you not only to secure your connection while surfing wifi hotspots, but also to access sites not normally available outside of the USA.

To secure your Internet connection, Hotspot Shield creates a Virtual Private Network (a secure connection, usually abbreviated to VPN) between your computer and the developer's website Anchorfree, based in the USA.

Everything is done in an extra tab open in your browser so there's no need to configure anything. A green and red shield in your menu bar indicates when and when it is not connected. The VPN is obviously encrypted (protected) - although it's not clear with what level of security is offered - so that you can surf safely without worrying about other intercepting your data.

The major reason why users are flocking to Hotspot Shield though is because it allows you to view sites in the USA that are usually restricted to outside users. This is particularly useful for video sites such as Hulu or restricted videos on YouTube. Well that's the theory anyway. The reality is that surfing with Hotspot Shield is: a) painfully slow, and b) does not always circumvent restrictions in the USA. I tried to access Hulu and although I didn't get the restricted access message (I got a message that the adverts had failed to load for some reason), the video never actually started. You could tell there was a significant slow down in surfing speed too. However, users report more success trying to access music site Pandora with Hotspot Shield.

Key Features:

- Secure your web session, data, online shopping, and personal information online with HTTPS encryption.

- Protect yourself from identity theft online.

- Hide your IP address for your privacy online.

- Access all content privately without censorship; bypass firewalls.

- Protect yourself from snoopers at Wi-Fi hotspots, hotels, airports, corporate offices.

- Works on wireless and wired connections alike. Provides Unlimited Bandwidth.

- Works on the PC and the MAC, including new operating systems (Windows 7 and Snow Leopard)

Before downloading, click here to update your computer drivers