How to Use TunnelBear for Safety & Security in 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every TunnelBear feature:

• Getting Started — Create account and basic setup
• How to Use Privacy Protection — Hide your browsing activity from trackers
• How to Use Fast Performance — Get the best VPN speeds possible
• How to Use Encrypt Your Connection — Protect your data on any network
• How to Use Browse with Other Countries — Access content from anywhere
• How to Use Strong Encryption — Secure your data with AES-256
• How to Use GhostBear — Bypass VPN blocks on restricted networks

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used TunnelBear for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This how to use TunnelBear tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

TunnelBear is one of the most user-friendly VPN tools available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

TunnelBear Tutorial

This complete TunnelBear tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

TunnelBear

Browse privately with a VPN that’s simple enough for anyone. TunnelBear uses AES-256 encryption and has servers in 47+ countries. Start with the free plan — no credit card needed.

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Getting Started with TunnelBear

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Watch this quick overview first:

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to TunnelBear’s website at tunnelbear.com.

Click “Get TunnelBear” or “Start Free.”

Enter your email and create a strong password.

Check your inbox for a verification email.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a confirmation that your email is verified.

Step 2: Download the App

TunnelBear works on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

Download the app for your device from the website.

You can also install browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.

Log in with your new account.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the TunnelBear map with country options.

Step 3: Connect for the First Time

Pick any country from the map or dropdown menu.

Flip the switch to turn TunnelBear on.

Watch the bear dig a tunnel to your chosen server.

How to Use TunnelBear Privacy Protection

Privacy Protection lets you hide your browsing activity from your ISP, advertisers, and network owners.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Privacy Protection in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the TunnelBear App

Launch TunnelBear on your device.

Make sure you’re signed in to your account.

Step 2: Turn On the VPN

Flip the main switch to the “On” position.

TunnelBear will connect to the nearest server automatically.

✓ Checkpoint: The bear should appear inside the tunnel on the map.

Step 3: Verify Your Connection

Visit bearsmyip.com to confirm your IP address changed.

Your real IP should be hidden from every website you visit.

How to Use TunnelBear Fast Performance

Fast Performance lets you get the best VPN speeds by choosing the right server and protocol.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Fast Performance in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Connection Settings

Go to Settings inside the TunnelBear app.

Find the “Protocol” or “Connection” section.

Step 2: Select WireGuard Protocol

Switch the protocol from “Auto” to “WireGuard.”

WireGuard delivers much faster speeds than OpenVPN or IKEv2.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see “WireGuard” selected in your protocol settings.

Step 3: Pick the Nearest Server

Choose a server location closest to your physical location.

Closer servers always give you faster connection speeds.

How to Use TunnelBear Encrypt Your Connection

Encrypt Your Connection lets you protect your data on public Wi-Fi and untrusted networks.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Encrypt Your Connection in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Connect to a Wi-Fi Network

Join any Wi-Fi network like you normally would.

This works at coffee shops, airports, hotels, or any public spot.

Step 2: Turn On TunnelBear

Open the app and flip the switch to connect.

TunnelBear wraps all your data in AES-256 encryption instantly.

✓ Checkpoint: The app should show “Connected” with a green indicator.

Step 3: Browse Safely

All your internet traffic is now encrypted end-to-end.

Hackers on the same network cannot read your data.

How to Use TunnelBear Browse with Other Countries

Browse with Other Countries lets you access websites and content blocked in your region.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Browse with Other Countries in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Server Map

Launch TunnelBear and look at the world map interface.

You’ll see server locations marked across 47+ countries.

Step 2: Select Your Target Country

Click or tap the country where the content you want is available.

For example, choose the US to access American websites.

✓ Checkpoint: The bear should tunnel to your selected country on the map.

Step 3: Access the Restricted Content

Open your browser and visit the website you want.

The site will treat you as if you’re browsing from that country.

How to Use TunnelBear Strong Encryption

Strong Encryption lets you secure every byte of data with military-grade AES-256 protection.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Strong Encryption in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Check Your Protocol Settings

Open TunnelBear Settings and find the protocol option.

All protocols (OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard) use AES-256 encryption.

Step 2: Enable VigilantBear

Go to the Security tab in Settings.

Turn on VigilantBear to block all traffic if the VPN disconnects.

✓ Checkpoint: VigilantBear should show as enabled in your settings.

Step 3: Confirm Encryption is Active

Connect to any server and visit bearsmyip.com.

Your real IP should be hidden, confirming encryption is working.

How to Use TunnelBear GhostBear

GhostBear lets you hide the fact that you’re using a VPN from restrictive networks.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch GhostBear in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open TunnelBear Settings

Launch the app and navigate to the Settings menu.

Look for the “GhostBear” option under Security or General.

Step 2: Turn On GhostBear

Toggle GhostBear to the “On” position.

This disguises your VPN traffic to look like regular browsing.

✓ Checkpoint: GhostBear should show as enabled in your settings panel.

Step 3: Connect to a Server

Pick any country and flip the main switch to connect.

Your VPN traffic is now hidden from network-level VPN detection.

TunnelBear Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing TunnelBear for over two years, here are my best tips.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• SplitBear (Split Tunneling): Choose which apps go through the VPN and which use your regular connection. Find it in Settings on Android.
• Closest Tunnel: Let TunnelBear auto-pick the fastest server by selecting “Closest Tunnel” instead of a specific country.
• TunnelBear Blocker: Install the free browser extension to block ads, trackers, and scripts — works with or without the VPN.

TunnelBear Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Connecting to a Far-Away Server

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Turn On VigilantBear

Mistake #3: Using the Free Plan for Heavy Browsing

TunnelBear Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Won’t Connect

Cause: Your network may block VPN protocols or the server is overloaded.

Fix: Switch to a different server country. If that fails, enable GhostBear to bypass VPN detection.

Problem: Slow Internet Speeds

Cause: You’re connected to a distant server or using a slower protocol.

Fix: Switch to the nearest server and change the protocol to WireGuard in Settings.

Problem: Free Data Ran Out Too Fast

Cause: The free plan only gives you 2 GB per month, which runs out quickly.

Fix: Upgrade to the Unlimited plan or use SplitBear to route only sensitive apps through the VPN.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact TunnelBear support through their help center.

What is TunnelBear?

TunnelBear is a VPN tool that protects your online privacy by encrypting your internet connection.

Think of it like a private tunnel between your device and the internet that nobody can peek into.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Privacy Protection: Hides your browsing from ISPs, advertisers, and network owners.
• Fast Performance: WireGuard protocol support for faster VPN speeds.
• Encrypt Your Connection: AES-256 encryption on public Wi-Fi and all networks.
• Browse with Other Countries: Access content from 47+ server locations worldwide.
• Strong Encryption: Military-grade AES-256 with VigilantBear kill switch.
• GhostBear: Hides VPN traffic from networks that try to block VPN use.

For a full review, see our TunnelBear review.

TunnelBear Pricing

Here’s what TunnelBear costs in 2026:

Free trial: Yes — the free plan gives you 2 GB per month with no credit card needed.

Money-back guarantee: No refunds once you purchase a subscription.

💰 Best Value: Unlimited plan at $3.33/mo — gives you full access on unlimited devices.

TunnelBear vs Alternatives

How does TunnelBear compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: NordVPN — Fastest speeds with the largest server network and strong privacy.
• Best budget: Surfshark VPN — Unlimited devices at just $1.99/mo on the longest plan.
• Best for beginners: TunnelBear — The simplest VPN interface with a usable free plan.
• Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based with a no-data-limit free tier.

🎯 TunnelBear Alternatives

Looking for TunnelBear alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 NordVPN: Top-tier speeds, huge server network, and proven no-logs policy. Best all-around pick for most users.
• 💰 ExpressVPN: Super-simple apps on every platform with some of the most consistent speeds available worldwide.
• 🎨 PureVPN: Affordable plans with a large server network across 65+ countries and dedicated IP options.
• ⚡ Surfshark VPN: Connect every device you own with no limits. Strong security features at a very low price.
• 🔒 ProtonVPN: Generous free tier with no data limits. Built by the team behind ProtonMail with Swiss privacy laws.
• 🧠 AdGuard VPN: Combines VPN protection with built-in ad and tracker blocking in one lightweight app.
• 👶 Virtual Shield: Fast US-based servers with a focus on American content access and privacy protection.
• 🏢 StrongVPN: Reliably unblocks major streaming services with solid speeds and simple setup.
• 🔧 FastestVPN: Lifetime plans available at extremely low prices with decent performance and WireGuard support.
• 🌟 Aura VPN: Bundles VPN with identity theft protection and antivirus for complete online security.
• ⭐ CyberGhost: Over 9,000 servers in 90+ countries with dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting.
• 🎯 McAfee VPN: VPN included with McAfee’s antivirus suite. Great if you already use McAfee security.
• 💼 Private Internet Access: Strong P2P support with port forwarding, a huge server network, and proven no-logs policy.
• 📊 Mysterium VPN: Peer-to-peer VPN network with no central servers. Pay per GB for true privacy.
• 🔥 SafeShell VPN: Designed to bypass strict regional blocks in Asia with dedicated high-speed servers.
• 🏆 Oyster VPN: One-time payment option with solid speeds and a growing server network worldwide.

For the full list, see our TunnelBear alternatives guide.

⚔️ TunnelBear Compared

Here’s how TunnelBear stacks up against each competitor:

• TunnelBear vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins with faster speeds, more servers, and better Netflix support. TunnelBear wins on simplicity and the free plan.
• TunnelBear vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has faster speeds and better streaming support. TunnelBear is cheaper and has a friendlier interface.
• TunnelBear vs PureVPN: PureVPN offers more server locations and dedicated IPs. TunnelBear has a better free plan and easier setup.
• TunnelBear vs Surfshark VPN: Surfshark allows unlimited devices and costs less. TunnelBear has a simpler interface and a usable free tier.
• TunnelBear vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has an unlimited free plan and Swiss privacy. TunnelBear has a more fun interface and easier setup.
• TunnelBear vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN combines ad blocking with VPN features. TunnelBear has more server countries and annual security audits.
• TunnelBear vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield focuses on US-based protection. TunnelBear has a free plan and covers more countries worldwide.
• TunnelBear vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is better for streaming platforms. TunnelBear is simpler to use and offers a free option.
• TunnelBear vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN has cheaper long-term pricing. TunnelBear has better apps and more consistent performance.
• TunnelBear vs Aura VPN: Aura VPN bundles identity protection features. TunnelBear is a standalone VPN with a more focused feature set.
• TunnelBear vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has far more servers and streaming profiles. TunnelBear is easier to use and has a free tier.
• TunnelBear vs McAfee VPN: McAfee VPN works best with the McAfee security suite. TunnelBear is a better standalone VPN choice.
• TunnelBear vs Private Internet Access: Private Internet Access has better torrenting support and more servers. TunnelBear is simpler and more beginner-friendly.
• TunnelBear vs Mysterium VPN: Mysterium VPN offers decentralized privacy. TunnelBear has traditional servers with more consistent speeds.
• TunnelBear vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell VPN targets users in Asia needing to bypass blocks. TunnelBear works well worldwide with easier setup.
• TunnelBear vs Oyster VPN: Oyster VPN offers a lifetime deal. TunnelBear has better-known security audits and a more trusted reputation.

Start Using TunnelBear Now

You learned how to use every major TunnelBear feature:

• ✅ Privacy Protection
• ✅ Fast Performance
• ✅ Encrypt Your Connection
• ✅ Browse with Other Countries
• ✅ Strong Encryption
• ✅ GhostBear

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Privacy Protection.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does TunnelBear work?

TunnelBear creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. When you turn it on, all your web traffic passes through a secure server in your chosen country. This hides your real IP address and prevents anyone from seeing what you do online.

How do I know if TunnelBear is working?

Visit bearsmyip.com after connecting to check your IP address. If it shows a different location than your real one, TunnelBear is working. You can also look at the bear animation in the app — it should be inside the tunnel.

Does TunnelBear VPN actually work?

Yes, TunnelBear uses AES-256 encryption and supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols. It has passed independent security audits by Cure53. It protects your data on public Wi-Fi and hides your browsing activity from your ISP.

Does TunnelBear change your location?

Yes, TunnelBear changes your visible IP address to match the server country you choose. Websites will see traffic coming from that country instead of your actual location. You can pick from 47+ countries on the server map.

Is TunnelBear actually free?

TunnelBear has a free plan that gives you 2 GB of data per month. No credit card is needed to sign up. The free plan includes full encryption but has a data cap. For unlimited data, you need the paid Unlimited plan starting at $3.33 per month.

Does TunnelBear hide your IP address?

Yes, TunnelBear replaces your real IP address with one from the server you connect to. Combined with AES-256 encryption, this prevents websites, advertisers, and your ISP from tracking your real location or identity.

Can TunnelBear be traced?

TunnelBear has a strict no-logging policy, meaning it does not store records of your browsing activity. Your IP address is hidden behind the VPN server. However, TunnelBear is based in Canada, which is a Five Eyes country.

Is TunnelBear blocked by Netflix?

TunnelBear’s ability to access Netflix from other regions can be hit or miss. Some servers work while others get detected and blocked. If you need reliable Netflix access, try different server locations or consider a VPN built for streaming.

How do I use TunnelBear VPN?

Download the TunnelBear app for your device, create a free account, verify your email, and log in. Then pick a country from the map and flip the switch to connect. Your internet traffic is now encrypted and routed through that country’s server.

What happened with TunnelBear?

McAfee acquired TunnelBear in 2018. The service continues to operate independently from Toronto, Canada. TunnelBear still maintains its own apps, branding, and annual security audits. The core VPN product has not changed significantly since the acquisition.

How much does TunnelBear VPN cost?

TunnelBear has a free plan with 2 GB per month. The Unlimited plan costs $3.33 per month when billed annually, or $9.99 if you pay monthly. The Teams plan for businesses is $5.75 per user per month.

Is TunnelBear a trusted VPN?

TunnelBear is one of the few VPNs that publishes independent security audits every year. Cure53 conducts these audits and the results are public. TunnelBear has a clear no-logging policy and uses AES-256 encryption across all platforms.

Which VPN is better than TunnelBear?

NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark all offer faster speeds and more features than TunnelBear. ProtonVPN has a better free plan with no data cap. However, TunnelBear remains one of the easiest VPNs for beginners to pick up and use.