How to Encrypt Your Web Browsing Session and Hide Your IP Address with Hotspot Shield

how to:How to Encrypt Your Web Browsing Session and Hide Your IP Address with Hotspot Shield

Posted by Brannon Cullum in Stay Safe and Anonymous Online, Desktop Digital Security

Hotspot Shield is an application that can be used to protect your identity when surfing the web by ensuring that all web transactions you complete are secured through HTTPS. This includes online shopping, filling out forms, and downloading applications or files.

In addition to using HTTPS, Hotspot also shields your identity by concealing your IP address from third-party websites and internet service providers.

Hotspot works by creating a virtual private network (VPN) tunnel between your computer and their internet gateway. A VPN is a private network that uses a public network (usually the internet) to connect remote sites or users securely to an organization’s network (in this case, Hotspot’s network).

The shield works on both Windows and Mac operating systems. It can be set up at any Wi-Fi hot spot, so it’s particularly great if you are away from home and using public Wi-Fi at an internet cafe, coffee shop, or somewhere else.

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Step 1.

Point your browser to http://hotspotshield.com/.

Step 2.

Click the large download button on the right-hand side and save the file.

Step 3.

Go to where you saved the file and double-click on the installation icon.

Step 4.

Click “Run” to begin the installation process, and then click the “Download” button to begin the shield installer.

Step 5.

Installation will begin automatically. Choose the language you want to use with Hotspot Shield. Click "Next," then agree to the license agreement. Decide if you want to install the Hotspot toolbar, then click "Next." Select your personal search options, then click "Next." Then select where you want the software installed on your computer. Once it finishes installing, click the next button.

Tip!

Make sure to leave the “Fix ‘page not found’ errors” option CHECKED.

Step 6.

Finish the installation by clicking "Finish." The program will automatically open a web browser and start connecting to the Hotspot Shield. Once it’s connected, you will see “Connected” in green and be directed to the default Hotspot Shield web page.

Step 7.

On the web page, you can use the Hotspot Shield private search function by typing what you are searching for into the address bar on the page. Remember: Don't use your web browser's regular search bar.

Step 8.

You will see a small green shield icon in the lower right-hand corner of your screen. This means that the Hotspot Shield service is running on your computer. It’s red when you are unconnected. Right-click on the icon to access options for the service.

While the service is connected, all open web browsers will use the HTTPS encryption service.

Step 9.

If you want to disconnect, right-click on the shield icon and select "Disconnect." You’ll be directed to the Hotspot Shield page, where you should click the disconnect button.

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