Should I use Hotspot Shield's free VPN?

Luckily, there are plenty of VPN services to choose from, and some offer free plans, so you can try them out before you spend your money. The same goes for Hotspot Shield because you can try their service for free.

But is the free version good enough?

Is Hotspot Shield's Free VPN Worth a Try?

The free version of Hotspot Shield still comes with military-grade encryption and no browsing device logs, among other features. However, there are many things to consider before installing it. So, what does Hotspot Shield's free VPN offer?

Is Hotspot Shield Free VPN Completely Free?

Many VPNs offer free trials, so you can test them out, then you'll be charged. However, this is not the case with Hotspot Shield.

At the time of this writing, you can try Hotspot Shield Free VPN (also known as Hotspot Shield Basic) without registering or entering your credit card details. All you have to do is visit the Hotspot Shield website and download the free version installer. Of course, there's also a premium option, charged monthly or annually.

How fast is Hotspot Shield's free VPN?

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The truth is that your Internet speed may suffer if you use Hotspot Shield Free VPN. Hotspot Shield Basic's maximum speed is limited to 2Mbps. If you want to increase connection speed, you will have to upgrade to the paid version.

How many server locations does Hotspot Shield Basic have?

The free version of Hotspot Shield will give you access to a single US server location. So if you want to watch geo-blocked content, the Basic plan might not be enough.

In addition, the server location will also affect your Internet speed. The closer the server is to your physical location, the faster your Internet speed will be. So, if you're not near the US, you should try to get around the geoblocking without a VPN.

What platforms does VPN support?

Hotspot Shield Free is available on the most popular platforms, meaning you can use it on Windows, Mac, Chrome, iOS, and Android. However, you may have to view ads on your Android or iOS device to get around the daily data limit.

Is it possible to watch Netflix with a free Hotspot Shield VPN?

Using a VPN to watch Netflix content that isn't available in your region is a common practice. But the bad news is that you can't watch Netflix with Hotspot Shield Basic. If you try to access the Netflix website, the VPN will notify you that you must upgrade to the Premium version to get unlimited access to global content.

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Also, it lacks the SmartVPN feature, so you can't choose which apps can bypass the VPN. In this case, you will have to disconnect the VPN if you want to watch Netflix.

However, it looks like you can still access the HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video websites.

How secure is Hotspot Shield Free VPN?

There are many risks that you can face when browsing the Internet. You need a VPN that keeps you protected. Unfortunately, Hotspot Shield Basic doesn't include anti-phishing protection, so it won't warn you about suspicious websites.

Also, it doesn't have a kill switch to disconnect you from the Internet if the VPN connection suddenly drops.

Try Hotspot Shield's Free VPN!

In the end, the decision is still up to you. But if you still can't decide after learning more about the free version of Hotpot Shield, then you should try it for yourself, because it obviously doesn't cost you anything.

And if Hotspot Shield's free VPN doesn't suit your needs, there are other free VPNs you can try.

Kareem Winters

Update 27 February 2023