TunnelBear 4.19.0.0 for Windows

TunnelBear 4.19.0.0 is the Windows client of TunnelBear, a virtual private network provider known for its simple, cartoon-bear interface. You can download TunnelBear for Windows from the official site and start with a limited free plan before deciding on a subscription.

Specifications

Supported systems

According to TunnelBear's help centre, the current apps support:

• Windows 10 or later;
• macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later;
• Android 8.1 (Oreo) or later.

What it is like to use

TunnelBear built its brand on making VPNs less intimidating. Instead of a list of server addresses, the app shows a map with country tunnels, and a bear digs its way to the country you choose when you connect. Behind the playful look is a standard VPN: traffic between your PC and TunnelBear's server is encrypted, and websites see the server's address instead of yours. That protects your browsing on public Wi-Fi from people on the same network and hides the sites you visit from your internet provider. The free plan is useful for trying the service or for occasional use on the road, while heavier users need a paid plan. Like any VPN, TunnelBear itself can technically see your traffic, so the provider's privacy policy is part of the decision. The app also exists as a Chrome extension that protects only the browser, which is handy on a PC where you cannot install software.

How to install it

1. Open the official TunnelBear site and download the Windows app; setup guides are in the help centre.
2. Run the installer and allow the network driver it adds.
3. Create an account or sign in.
4. Pick a country on the map or let the app pick one for you, then connect.

Changes in each version are listed on the What's new for Windows page.

Price

There is a free plan with a data limit and paid subscriptions without one; current prices are on the official site.

Safety

Download only from tunnelbear.com. Cracked VPN clients and shared "premium" accounts are risky, since a VPN sees all your traffic.

Troubleshooting

If the connection fails, switch to another country, check that no other VPN is running, and restart the app. Some public networks block VPN traffic entirely; the help centre describes settings that can help.

Pros and cons

• Pro: very easy to use.
• Pro: free plan for trying it out.
• Pro: clear help centre.
• Con: the free plan is limited.
• Con: fewer advanced settings than specialist VPNs.

Alternatives

Other VPNs on our site include Proton VPN, Windscribe VPN, CyberGhost, Mullvad VPN and Surfshark.