How to set up a VPN and watch US TV in the UK without getting hacked

Tunnel Bear is one of our favourite VPN services and the PC version has recently had an update. The UI has been overhauled and connection times are faster.

The VPN also now includes a tool that automatically encrypts your connection when you join unknown networks, and you can opt to block all traffic while the VPN connects, so you’re never left unprotected.

It's one of the best tools you can use to geo-shift and watch US TV content – here's how to set it up.

1. Download and run the TunnelBear installer. Log in or set up an account when prompted and skip the introductory screens. Leave TunnelBear set to Auto if you want the best performance and are only concerned about privacy. Otherwise, choose a country from the dropdown menu.
   
2. Click the switch to turn on TunnelBear. The program lets you know when it’s connected. All internet traffic activity is now routed through the VPN, and TunnelBear shows you how much of your free data allowance you have remaining.
   
3. You can choose another location at any time by selecting a different country from the dropdown menu. If TunnelBear can’t establish a new connection, try turning the VPN’s switch off and back on again. Next, click the Settings cog to view TunnelBear’s advanced options.
   
4. By default, the program is set to launch and connect on startup, but you can turn this option to Off if you’d rather control when you connect. If you notice that your connection is unstable, try enabling TCP Override, which is slightly slower but more reliable.
   
5. Even with TunnelBear’s handy notifications, you may not notice if it disconnects. To ensure all unsecure traffic is blocked, click Security and activate VigilantBear. If you want to make your encrypted data less visible to governments, businesses and ISPs, switch on GhostBear.
   
6. To ensure you’re always protected on unfamilar Wi-Fi networks, click the Trusted Networks tab and switch it on. Click ‘Add to Trusted Networks’ when connecting to a network you trust. The VPN will activate automatically when you use any other networks.