TunnelBear - Detailed Review
Privacy Tools
TunnelBear - Product Overview
Introduction to TunnelBear
TunnelBear is a user-friendly Virtual Private Network (VPN) service that prioritizes privacy and security for its users. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features.Primary Function
TunnelBear’s main function is to create a secure “tunnel” for your internet traffic, encrypting your data and masking your IP address. This process protects your real location and device from various online tracking methods, making it appear as if you are browsing from a different device.Target Audience
TunnelBear caters to a wide range of users, including individual users, small businesses, remote workers, travelers, privacy-conscious individuals, freelancers, students, and non-tech-savvy users. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible to people of all technical backgrounds.Key Features
Encryption and IP Masking
TunnelBear encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, ensuring your data remains private and secure from hackers, ISPs, and government surveillance.No-Logs Policy
The service adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning no user activity is recorded or stored. This commitment is reinforced by regular third-party security audits.Geographic Content Access
TunnelBear allows users to access content that may be restricted based on geographic location, making it useful for streaming, accessing local news, or visiting blocked websites.Free and Premium Plans
TunnelBear operates on a freemium business model, offering a free tier with limited monthly data usage and several premium subscription options with unlimited data and priority customer support.User-Friendly Interface
The service features a simple, attractive design with a bear-themed brand, making it easy for non-tech-savvy users to use. This includes seamless mobile applications available on iOS and Android.Tracker Blocking
TunnelBear includes a feature called “Maul Trackers” that blocks tracking URLs from known tracking services, protecting users from data collection by advertisers and other trackers.Multi-Device Support
Users can connect multiple devices to TunnelBear, with the free plan supporting up to 5 devices and the paid plans offering unlimited device support.Customer Support
TunnelBear provides 24/7 customer support, user-friendly guides, and an engaging social media presence to help users with any issues or questions they may have. Overall, TunnelBear is a reliable and easy-to-use VPN service that prioritizes user privacy and security, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of users. TunnelBear - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The interface of TunnelBear is characterized by its whimsical and fun bear-themed design. This approach makes the VPN more approachable, especially for users who are new to VPNs. The apps for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS feature animated bears that tunnel across the screen when you connect or switch servers, adding a playful touch to the experience.
On the Android app, for example, connecting to a server is as simple as tapping the “Fastest server” option, and a bear will dig a tunnel from your current location to the selected country, complete with an adorable roar. The settings tab is also clearly laid out, making it easy to access features like VigilantBear (kill switch), GhostBear (obfuscation), and SplitBear (split-tunneling).
Ease of Use
TunnelBear’s apps are extremely easy to use, with an intuitive design that requires minimal time to get accustomed to. The installation process is quick, taking only 1-2 minutes on mobile devices and 3-4 minutes on desktops. Once installed, connecting to a server is a one-click process, making it very accessible for users who are not tech-savvy.
The interface is simple and straightforward, with most features placed where you would expect them. This simplicity helps in reducing the intimidation factor often associated with cybersecurity tools, making TunnelBear a good choice for those who are just starting to use VPNs.
Overall User Experience
The overall user experience with TunnelBear is generally positive, especially in terms of ease of use. The apps are well-designed and feature-rich, although the heavy use of animations and graphics can sometimes affect performance, particularly on weaker machines. For instance, the Windows client can consume 2-5% of CPU resources even when idle.
Despite some performance issues, such as slower speeds and occasional connection problems, TunnelBear’s commitment to privacy and security is evident. It offers features like DNS leak protection, a kill switch (VigilantBear), and obfuscation (GhostBear), which work effectively to protect user privacy.
In summary, TunnelBear’s user interface is engaging, easy to use, and designed to make VPN usage less technical and more enjoyable. While there may be some minor performance issues, the overall experience is positive, especially for those looking for a user-friendly VPN solution.
TunnelBear - Key Features and Functionality
TunnelBear VPN Overview
TunnelBear VPN is a user-friendly and secure VPN service that offers several key features to enhance your online privacy and security. Here are the main features and how they work:Beginner-Friendly Interface
TunnelBear boasts a very intuitive and user-friendly interface, themed around bears and tunnels. This design makes it easier for beginners to use the VPN without feeling overwhelmed by technical jargon. The interface is simple, with most features and options placed where you would expect them, making the learning process less confusing.Unlimited Device Connections
One of the standout features of TunnelBear is its ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously with a single subscription. This means you can protect all your devices, including computers, smartphones, and browsers, without any additional cost. This is particularly beneficial for large households or individuals with multiple devices.VigilantBear (Kill Switch)
VigilantBear is TunnelBear’s kill switch feature, available on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. If the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, VigilantBear automatically blocks all internet traffic to prevent your true IP and online activities from being exposed. This ensures your privacy remains intact even in the event of a connection failure.SplitBear (Split Tunneling)
SplitBear allows you to route specific apps or services through the VPN tunnel while others use your regular network. This feature is available on Windows and Android apps. It improves performance for apps that don’t require privacy while securing only the traffic that needs protection. For example, you can use the VPN for streaming while keeping your browser traffic on the regular network.GhostBear (Obfuscation Mode)
GhostBear is an obfuscation mode that makes your VPN traffic look like regular web traffic, helping you avoid detection by networks that block or throttle VPN usage. This feature is particularly useful in restrictive environments such as workplaces, schools, or countries with heavy censorship. However, it does slow down your connection significantly, so it should be used only when necessary.TunnelBear Teams
For businesses, TunnelBear offers a team account option called TunnelBear Teams. This feature includes centralized team billing, the ability to add or remove users, and an auto-join feature that automatically enrolls users with a specific email address. It simplifies the process of setting up a VPN for an organization.Encryption and Security
TunnelBear uses strong encryption (256-AES) and supports multiple VPN protocols such as IPSec, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. It also has a no-logging policy, meaning it does not record your online activities. The service has passed DNS leak tests, ensuring your data remains secure.Online Tracking Blocker
TunnelBear offers an online tracking blocker, available as a browser extension for Google Chrome. This feature helps block simple ads and trackers, though it is not as powerful as the ad blockers offered by other VPNs like NordVPN or Surfshark.Free Plan and Unlimited Bandwidth
TunnelBear provides a free subscription tier with a limited data cap (500MB/month), but it includes full access to core features. Paid users enjoy unlimited data and bandwidth, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming and torrenting.Device Compatibility
TunnelBear has native apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, as well as browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera. However, it does not support Linux or installation on routers or smart TVs.Conclusion
While TunnelBear does not explicitly integrate AI into its features, its user-friendly interface and automated functions like VigilantBear and GhostBear make it easy to use and ensure robust security without requiring advanced technical knowledge. TunnelBear - Performance and Accuracy
Performance and Accuracy Evaluation of TunnelBear VPN
Speed Performance
TunnelBear generally offers good download speeds, particularly when using the WireGuard protocol. For example, speed tests showed download speeds of around 196-200 Mbps in various locations such as the UK, US, Canada, and Germany. However, the upload speeds are a different story; they are consistently slower across all protocols. The WireGuard protocol, which is the fastest, still shows upload speeds that are significantly lower than the download speeds. Other protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN UDP, and OpenVPN TCP perform even worse, with upload speeds that can be quite slow.Privacy and Logging
TunnelBear is clear about its no-activity-logs policy, meaning it does not monitor or log your online activities. However, it does collect some personal and non-personal data, such as your email address, OS version, total data used this month, and payment information through third-party services like Stripe and PayPal. This balance between privacy and operational needs is a consideration, but it’s worth noting that TunnelBear is based in a 5-Eyes Alliance country, which might raise some privacy concerns.Security Audits
One of the strong points of TunnelBear is its transparency and commitment to security audits. Since 2016, they have conducted annual audits with the German security firm Cure53, which helps identify and fix vulnerabilities. This consistent audit history is reassuring, although there hasn’t been an audit posted for 2024 yet.Streaming and Torrenting
TunnelBear has mixed results when it comes to streaming. It can unblock some platforms like Netflix US and Amazon Prime, but it struggles with others such as Disney and YouTubeTV. The service is not ideal for torrenting due to inconsistent speeds and the lack of specialized servers for P2P sharing.User Experience
The VPN has a user-friendly design and is generally easy to use. However, it lacks live chat support, which can make getting assistance slower since users have to rely on email. The free version is also highly limited, with a 2GB per month data cap, which can be used up quickly.Areas for Improvement
- Consistent Speeds: While download speeds are good, upload speeds are a significant issue. Improving upload speeds across all protocols would enhance the overall user experience.
- Streaming Support: Expanding support for more streaming platforms and improving consistency would make TunnelBear more appealing to users who rely on VPNs for streaming.
- Torrenting: Adding specialized servers for P2P sharing and improving speeds would make TunnelBear a more viable option for torrenting.
- Customer Support: Introducing live chat support could significantly improve the user experience by providing quicker assistance.
- Recent Audits: Ensuring regular security audits continue is crucial for maintaining trust and transparency.
Conclusion
In summary, TunnelBear is a decent VPN with good download speeds and a strong commitment to security audits. However, it has several areas that need improvement, particularly in terms of upload speeds, streaming support, and customer service. If you’re looking for a VPN for specific needs like torrenting or comprehensive streaming support, you might want to consider other options. TunnelBear - Pricing and Plans
TunnelBear Pricing Structure
TunnelBear offers a clear and straightforward pricing structure with several plans to cater to different needs.
Free Plan
- This plan is ideal for testing the service or for limited usage.
- It includes 2GB of data per month, which resets on the monthly anniversary of your account creation. Unused data does not carry over.
- You have access to all TunnelBear servers in 47 countries.
- The free plan allows you to use all of TunnelBear’s features, but it is limited by the data cap.
TunnelBear Unlimited Plan
- This plan is suitable for individuals who need unlimited data.
- The monthly subscription costs $9.99 per month.
- For longer commitments, the one-year plan costs $4.99 per month, and the three-year plan costs $3.33 per month.
- Features include unlimited data, unlimited simultaneous connections, access to over 5000 servers in 48 countries, and strong AES-256 bit encryption.
TunnelBear Teams Plan
- This plan is designed for businesses and teams.
- It costs $5.75 per user per month.
- There are no long-term plans available for this option.
- Features include all the VPN features, unlimited devices, priority support, and an account manager.
Additional Notes
- All plans, including the free one, have the same performance levels, ensuring consistent service quality.
- TunnelBear does not offer a money-back guarantee, but they may consider refund requests on a case-by-case basis.
- The service includes a strict no-logging policy and annual third-party security audits to ensure privacy and security.
TunnelBear - Integration and Compatibility
TunnelBear Overview
TunnelBear, a user-friendly VPN service, integrates and operates across a variety of platforms and devices, ensuring broad compatibility and ease of use.
Platform Compatibility
TunnelBear offers applications for major operating systems, including Windows 10 and later, macOS 11 (Big Sur) and later, iOS 12 and later, and Android 8.1 (Oreo) and later.
Windows and macOS
TunnelBear provides desktop apps for these platforms, although the Windows client is noted for its large size (131 MB) and moderate CPU usage (2-5%).
iOS and Android
Mobile apps are available, with features like SplitBear (split tunneling) and Encrypted Server Name Indicator (SNI) being particularly useful on these devices. For example, the Encrypted SNI feature, which helps bypass DNS-level blocks, is currently only available on Android.
Browser Extensions
In addition to native apps, TunnelBear offers browser extensions for Chrome 22 and Firefox 58 . These extensions provide an added layer of security when browsing on public networks, although they do not offer full VPN protection.
Protocol Support
TunnelBear supports multiple VPN protocols, each with its own platform compatibility:
WireGuard
Available on Windows and iOS, known for its speed and efficient encryption.
IKEv2
Supported on Windows and iOS.
OpenVPN
Available on Android and macOS. Notably, TunnelBear has implemented OpenVPN3 with Pluggable Transports to enhance connection reliability and obfuscation capabilities, particularly useful in regions with heavy censorship.
IPsec
Supported on iOS.
Integration with Obfuscation Technologies
TunnelBear has integrated advanced obfuscation technologies, such as Pluggable Transports, to help users in censored regions. This includes the implementation of OpenVPN3 with Obfs4, which allows for more reliable and seamless connections without the need for separate processes.
Additional Features
Features like SplitBear (split tunneling) allow users to choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection, available on Android and iOS devices. The Encrypted SNI feature, while currently limited to Android, helps bypass common DNS-level blocks effectively.
Linux Support
TunnelBear does not offer a native client for Linux but provides configuration files for manual setup, which may not be as user-friendly as the support offered for other platforms.
Conclusion
In summary, TunnelBear is highly compatible across various devices and platforms, offering a range of features and protocols to ensure secure and private internet browsing. However, some features and protocols have limited platform availability, and Linux users may face more challenges in setting up the service.
TunnelBear - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support Overview
TunnelBear offers several avenues for customer support and provides a range of resources to help users manage and troubleshoot their accounts.
Contact Options
Email Support
You can reach TunnelBear’s customer support team via email at support@tunnelbear.com. This is the primary method for contacting their support team, as they do not offer phone support.
Privacy Concerns
For specific privacy-related questions or concerns, you can email privacy@tunnelbear.com.
Help Center and Resources
Help Center
TunnelBear has a comprehensive help center that includes articles and guides on various topics such as account management, features, and troubleshooting. This resource is available on their website and covers a wide range of frequently asked questions.
FAQs and Guides
The help center includes detailed sections on getting started, managing your account, subscription management, and troubleshooting common issues like login problems or email verification.
Account Management
Email Verification
TunnelBear requires an active email address to verify your account. If you encounter issues with email verification, you can try adding support@tunnelbear.com to your email contacts to avoid spam filters or request a second verification email through the app or website.
Password Reset and Account Recovery
If you forget your email address associated with your account, you can search your email inbox for TunnelBear-related emails or initiate a password reset using possible email addresses. For further assistance, you can contact the support team.
Additional Support
Custom Invoices
If you need additional information on your invoice, you can request a custom invoice by contacting the support team. However, payment details such as the last four digits of your card cannot be included for security reasons.
Technical Issues
For issues like login problems due to censorship or interference from third-party programs, the help center provides steps to troubleshoot and resolve these issues.
Transparency and Privacy
Privacy Policy
TunnelBear has a clear and transparent privacy policy that explains how your personal data is handled. You can request access to, correct, or delete your personal data by contacting them via email.
By utilizing these resources, users can effectively manage their TunnelBear accounts and resolve any issues that may arise.
TunnelBear - Pros and Cons
Pros of TunnelBear VPN
Strong Security and Encryption
TunnelBear uses robust encryption methods, including AES-256 for data encryption, SHA256 for data authentication, and the Diffie-Hellman exchange (2048-, 3072-, or 4096-bit) for handshake encryption. This ensures your web traffic is securely protected.
No-Logging Policy
TunnelBear has a strict no-logging policy, meaning it does not log your IP addresses, DNS queries, browsing history, or any other personal usage data. The data they do collect is minimal and necessary for service operation, such as OS version, app version, and operational events.
Independent Audits
TunnelBear’s applications are independently code-audited each year to ensure they meet high security standards. This adds an extra layer of trust and transparency.
Free Version Available
You can try TunnelBear with a free version that offers 500 MB of data per month, allowing you to test the service before committing to a paid subscription.
User-Friendly Interface
TunnelBear is known for its beginner-friendly UI, making it easy for new users to set up and use the VPN.
Good App Ratings
The VPN has excellent app ratings, with an average of 4.5 out of five stars, indicating a positive user experience, especially on mobile devices.
DNS Leak Protection
TunnelBear performs well in protecting against DNS leaks, ensuring your data remains secure even when using different locations.
Cons of TunnelBear VPN
Location in a Five Eyes Country
TunnelBear is based in Canada, which is part of the Five Eyes international surveillance alliance. Although this shouldn’t be a concern due to their no-logging policy, it might still be a worry for some users.
Slow Speeds
Users have reported slower speeds, particularly on Windows, and occasional connectivity issues. This can lead to buffering and slower webpage loading times.
Netflix Compatibility Issues
TunnelBear often struggles to bypass Netflix’s geographical restrictions, making it less suitable for users who want to access Netflix content from other regions.
Limited Customer Support
TunnelBear does not offer phone or live chat support, which can be a drawback for users who need immediate assistance.
Buggy App Experience
Some users have experienced bugs and connectivity issues with the app, although these can sometimes resolve themselves over time.
By weighing these pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether TunnelBear VPN is the right choice for your privacy and security needs.
TunnelBear - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing TunnelBear to Other VPNs
Security and Audits
TunnelBear has undergone security audits by Cure53 in 2017 and 2018, which is commendable, but it lags behind other VPNs in terms of recent audits. For instance, NordVPN has undergone multiple recent audits, including no-logs audits by PricewaterhouseCoopers AG Switzerland and a full security audit by VerSprite, making NordVPN a more audited and trusted option in terms of security.Privacy Policy
TunnelBear’s privacy policy is a significant concern. Despite claiming a no-logs policy, they collect data such as the operating system version, app version, monthly activity, and bandwidth usage. This contradicts their no-logs claim and raises privacy concerns. In contrast, NordVPN and Surfshark have had their no-logs claims independently verified by auditors, making them more trustworthy in terms of privacy.Features and Compatibility
TunnelBear lacks in features compared to its competitors. For example, Surfshark offers better compatibility with more platforms, including Linux and Amazon Fire TV, and provides additional features like automatic wifi protection, ad-blocking, malware-scanning, and static IP addresses. Surfshark also supports split tunneling on all its apps, whereas TunnelBear only offers this feature on Android.Jurisdiction
TunnelBear is based in Canada, which is considered a privacy-hostile jurisdiction due to its data retention laws. In contrast, NordVPN is based in Panama, a more privacy-friendly jurisdiction, and Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which also has stricter privacy laws.Alternatives
NordVPN
NordVPN stands out as a strong alternative due to its rigorous security audits, strong privacy features like CyberSec, and a verified no-logs policy. It operates in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction and offers a wide range of specialty servers for enhanced privacy and security.Surfshark
Surfshark is another viable alternative, offering a broader range of features, better compatibility, and strong security tools like automatic wifi protection, ad-blocking, and malware-scanning. It also supports unlimited devices and has undergone independent audits to verify its no-logs claims.CyberGhost
CyberGhost is another option that outperforms TunnelBear in several areas. It offers faster speeds, more server locations, and better support options, including 24/7 live chat. CyberGhost also follows a strict no-logs policy and provides more control over its security tools.Conclusion
In summary, while TunnelBear has some positive aspects, such as its user-friendly interface and basic security features, it falls short in critical areas like privacy policy transparency, recent security audits, and feature richness compared to its competitors. Users seeking stronger privacy and security may find NordVPN, Surfshark, or CyberGhost to be more suitable alternatives. TunnelBear - Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different pricing plans offered by TunnelBear VPN?
TunnelBear VPN offers several pricing plans. The options include:
- TunnelBear Free: This plan is free, but it comes with a 2GB data cap per month and limited features.
- TunnelBear Unlimited: This plan costs $9.99 per month for a monthly subscription, $3.33 per month for a one-year subscription, and $3.33 per month for a three-year subscription. It offers unlimited data and device connections.
How many devices can I connect with a TunnelBear VPN subscription?
With the TunnelBear Unlimited plan, you can connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously. This is a significant advantage over many other VPN providers that limit the number of simultaneous connections.
Does TunnelBear VPN keep logs of my internet activity?
No, TunnelBear VPN has a strict no-logs policy. They do not collect any information about what you browse while connected to their VPN. They only collect minimal data necessary for service operation, such as the total amount of data used by a user each month, which is reset to zero at the end of each month.
What encryption and VPN protocols does TunnelBear use?
TunnelBear uses AES-256 encryption, along with SHA and the Diffie–Hellman key exchange for secure connections. The VPN protocols used include WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, depending on the operating system you are using.
What is the GhostBear feature in TunnelBear VPN?
The GhostBear feature allows your encrypted data connection to appear as regular internet data. This is particularly useful in countries with internet censorship or restrictions, as it helps your VPN traffic blend in with regular traffic, reducing the likelihood of being blocked.
Does TunnelBear VPN offer a kill switch?
Yes, TunnelBear VPN includes a feature called VigilantBear, which acts as a kill switch. It automatically stops your internet traffic if the VPN connection is disrupted, ensuring your data remains protected and does not revert to your default internet connection.
Can I use split tunneling with TunnelBear VPN?
Yes, TunnelBear offers a split tunneling feature called SplitBear. This allows you to choose which apps or traffic go through the VPN and which use your regular internet connection. This is useful for applications that require your local IP address or location.
What is TunnelBear Teams, and how does it differ from the Unlimited plan?
TunnelBear Teams is a plan designed for businesses. It costs $5.75 per user per month and includes all the features of the Unlimited plan, plus additional business-oriented features such as centralized billing, an account manager, and priority support. This plan is convenient for managing multiple users within an organization.
Does TunnelBear VPN offer a free trial or money-back guarantee?
TunnelBear VPN offers a free plan with limited data (2GB per month), which you can use to test their service. However, they do not offer a money-back guarantee for their paid plans. All payments are non-refundable, although they may consider refund requests on a case-by-case basis.
How many servers does TunnelBear VPN have, and in which countries are they located?
TunnelBear VPN has over 8,000 servers located in more than 46 countries. This provides a wide range of server options for users to connect to, ensuring good coverage and performance.
Is TunnelBear VPN user-friendly for beginners?
Yes, TunnelBear VPN is known for its beginner-friendly interface. It uses a bear-themed design that makes the software less confusing and more intuitive to use. The navigation is straightforward, and most features are easily accessible.
TunnelBear - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of TunnelBear VPN
TunnelBear VPN is a user-friendly and secure option that caters to a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced VPN enthusiasts.Key Features and Benefits
User-Friendly Interface
TunnelBear boasts a beginner-friendly, bear-themed interface that makes using a VPN less intimidating. The intuitive design and fun theme can make the learning process more enjoyable and less confusing.Strong Security
TunnelBear uses strong encryption methods, including 256-bit AES, and protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. It also features a kill switch called VigilantBear, which ensures your internet traffic is blocked if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.GhostBear and SplitBear
The GhostBear feature helps camouflage VPN connections to avoid detection, while SplitBear allows you to route specific apps through the VPN or your regular network, enhancing performance and security.No-Logs Policy
TunnelBear has a strict no-logs policy, which has been audited by an independent third party. This ensures that your web traffic is not logged, providing a high level of privacy.Unlimited Device Connections
One of the standout features is the ability to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously with a single subscription, making it a great value for users with multiple devices.Global Server Coverage
With over 8,000 servers in 46 countries, TunnelBear offers good server coverage, although speeds can vary depending on the server location and usage.Who Would Benefit Most
Beginners
The user-friendly interface and simple setup make TunnelBear an excellent choice for those new to VPNs.Small Businesses
TunnelBear Teams offers centralized billing, easy user management, and an auto-join feature, making it a convenient option for small businesses.Users in Restricted Environments
The GhostBear feature is particularly useful for users in countries or networks with heavy censorship, as it helps bypass restrictions.Users Needing Multiple Device Protection
With unlimited device connections, TunnelBear is ideal for individuals or families with multiple devices that need VPN protection.Overall Recommendation
TunnelBear VPN is a solid choice for anyone looking for a secure, easy-to-use VPN. Here are some points to consider:Pros
- Strong security features
- User-friendly interface
- Unlimited device connections
- No-logs policy
- Useful features like GhostBear and SplitBear
- Free plan available for testing
Cons
- Located in Canada, which is part of the Five Eyes Alliance
- Sometimes slow customer support
- Limited success with bypassing Netflix georestrictions
- Speeds can vary depending on server usage and location