Access US Websites Internationally | TunnelBear
Overcoming Geographic Restrictions with TunnelBear
For individuals residing outside the United States, a common frustration arises when browsing online content. Often, articles detailing innovative web services – such as streaming platforms or online bookstores – fail to indicate availability limitations.
Upon clicking through to explore these services, users frequently discover they are restricted to customers within the US, a detail often overlooked in the initial coverage.
How TunnelBear Provides a Solution
TunnelBear is a user-friendly VPN (Virtual Private Network) service designed to address this issue. It functions by masking your actual location and presenting your internet traffic as originating from within the United States.
While the concept of using a VPN to bypass geographic restrictions isn't novel, and alternative free options exist, TunnelBear distinguishes itself through its streamlined interface and ease of operation.
The service offers a straightforward approach to accessing content typically unavailable in your region.
- It allows users to virtually relocate their internet connection.
- This enables access to US-exclusive websites and services.
- TunnelBear prioritizes simplicity, making it accessible to users of all technical skill levels.
If you've been seeking a simple and effective method to circumvent geographic content restrictions, TunnelBear may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
Understanding the Capabilities of TunnelBear
Before delving into the specifics of TunnelBear, it’s important to understand the potential outcomes. While a useful tool, TunnelBear isn’t without limitations. Certain websites may not function correctly while connected, and awareness of these possibilities is beneficial before proceeding with installation.
The screenshot provided, captured from Hulu while using TunnelBear, illustrates this point. Despite the VPN connection, Hulu detected a location outside the US and refused service. Conversely, other platforms, such as Pandora, operated seamlessly with TunnelBear.
Data Limits and Subscription Options
The free version of TunnelBear provides a data allowance of 500MB per month. An additional 1GB can be obtained by sharing a tweet about the service. For unlimited data usage, a subscription fee of $5 per month applies.
This pricing is competitive within the VPN market, and the TunnelBear client is notably user-friendly compared to many alternatives. The 500MB limit is sufficient for several hours of audio streaming or extensive reading material.
Performance and Speed Considerations
The following result was obtained from a SpeedTest performed while connected to TunnelBear:
A downstream speed of 1.25Mbps was recorded. Although seemingly slow in relation to typical broadband speeds, this bandwidth is adequate for uninterrupted, high-quality music streaming.
Service Compatibility
Services like Pandora and Rdio functioned effectively. Google Books also proved accessible, however, attempts to purchase books were unsuccessful.
While TunnelBear can mask your geographical location, it cannot provide a US-based credit card or billing address.
Summary of Benefits and Limitations
In conclusion, the free version of TunnelBear offers 500MB of data (expandable to 1.5GB with a social media share). Most music streaming services operate well, Hulu is generally inaccessible, and Google Books allows browsing but not purchases.
For users primarily interested in accessing music content, this represents a valuable solution. TunnelBear provides a convenient way to bypass geographical restrictions.
A Step-by-Step Guide to TunnelBear Configuration
The process of setting up TunnelBear is remarkably straightforward. Initially, navigate to the TunnelBear website and select the prominent Download TunnelBear button. Following this, proceed with the installation and launch the setup wizard, which will prompt you to either log in to an existing account or create a new one:
Account creation requires standard information, similar to other online services, and is designed to be non-intrusive – a credit card is not necessary.
Sharing your Twitter ID offers the opportunity to receive an additional 1 gigabyte of data. Creative tweets may even qualify for more than 1GB of free data.
The subsequent screen displays the available subscription plans:
For this guide, we will proceed with the Little TunnelBear plan. Clicking Next will trigger an email confirmation from TunnelBear, containing a link that must be clicked to continue. Upon completion, an OpenVPN driver will be installed on your system:
With these steps completed, you are ready to begin using the service! The TunnelBear client interface, when disconnected, appears as follows:
The design is quite refined. While wood textures are common, they are effectively utilized in this context. Your remaining data allowance on the free plan is clearly visible. You can select either the US or the UK server location using the switch on the right, and initiate the connection by clicking the button on the left:
This illustrates the TunnelBear client while actively connected. The speed meter is displayed, along with fluctuations caused by buffering during music playback, such as with Pandora.
By following this simple, guided process, a fully operational VPN connection can be established within minutes. If you reside outside of the United States, we encourage you to try TunnelBear and share your experience!
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