Hotspot Shield VPN for Windows

Hotspot Shield VPN offers VPN services with core tools centered around encryption, IP masking, and virtual location switching. It supports a basic structure involving multiple server locations across regions, a kill switch, and AES-256 encryption. It also integrates malware and phishing protection within its platform. 

Hotspot Shield VPN directs internet traffic through virtual tunnels to disguise real IP addresses. It includes a proprietary protocol called Hydra, alongside standard options like IKEv2. The interface has toggles and location selectors for quick access to virtual servers. It operates under the Aura company banner, focusing on privacy routing and online activity masking tools.

Basic and broad VPN access

Hotspot Shield VPN uses its in-house Hydra protocol for fast routing across distant servers, alongside standard IKEv2. Hydra compresses data before encryption to improve speed without changing the encryption, though no split tunneling or routing customization. The VPN continuously masks your IP address once connected, and it shows real-time server status. Users can manually choose protocols or let the software auto-select based on connection quality and location.

It includes malware protection and a kill switch, accessible directly within the client settings. Malware blocking filters flag websites, while the kill switch disables the internet if the VPN drops. WebRTC and DNS leak prevention are also built in with on or off toggles. However, the firewall settings are not customizable, the VPN regularly pings its connected server to maintain connection integrity.

It maintains server access across over 80 countries, with city-level options in selected regions. Load balancing across these servers is automatic; no manual override is provided. Some servers support streaming and P2P, though no specific labels are given within the app to distinguish them. Speeds vary based on distance, but the Hydra protocol prioritizes a stable connection rather than fast switching.

Easy privacy online

Hotspot Shield VPN provides a virtual tunnel service with location switching, a custom protocol, and malware site blocking. It supports basic VPN functions with options for encrypted protocols and a kill switch, but lacks split tunneling or routing customization and firewall configuration depth. It's a VPN with a basic interface and server switching, it delivers that without layered technical tools.

• Improved VPN speeds
• Enhanced user interface
• Bug fixes and performance improvements