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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.

Ensure you are private, secure, and anonymous online!

* Hide your IP while you're online.
* Access all content without censorship; bypass firewalls.
* Protect yourself from snoopers at Wi-Fi hotspots, hotels, airports, corporate offices and ISP hubs.
* Works on wireless and wired connections alike.

You can now enjoy Hotspot Shield... 100% free VPN security!

* Access all of your favorite content privately
* Secure your web session with HTTPS encryption
* Hide your IP address for your privacy online
* Protect yourself from snoopers at Wi-Fi hotspots, hotels, airports, corporate offices and ISP hubs.
* Secure your data & personal information online