TunnelBear VPN for Linux: A Comprehensive Review

In recent years, security firms have been conducting annual audits to ensure that virtual private networks (VPNs) adhere to best practices and maintain transparency in their operations. One such firm, Cure57, has been auditing TunnelBear VPN since 2017, examining its infrastructure, codebase, web and desktop apps, and more. In this review, we'll delve into the features and performance of TunnelBear VPN on Linux.

TunnelBear VPN offers a range of features that make it an attractive option for users. For instance, it allows P2P traffic, making it suitable for torrenting. However, unlike some other VPN providers, it doesn't offer specialized servers for this purpose.

Another notable feature is the GhostBear mode, which enables TunnelBear to work in China. Unfortunately, users cannot select a protocol manually, as the provider only implements IKEv2 (for Windows and iOS) and OpenVPN (for Windows, Android, and macOS).

Performance

In our tests, we found that TunnelBear VPN struggled with streaming content. We were unable to unblock services like BBC iPlayer, ESPN, ESPN+, or Disney Plus. However, the provider did manage to bypass Netflix's VPN block in the US, Canada, and the UK.

When it comes to speed, TunnelBear VPN's performance is mixed. While connecting to a local server resulted in close-to-ideal streaming speeds, long-distance connections, especially to servers in the UK and US, made streaming impossible. We experienced significant slowdowns when connecting to these distant servers, with download speeds decreasing by as much as 94% and ping times increasing by 12 times.

In conclusion, TunnelBear VPN is a decent option for Linux users who prioritize privacy and security. While it offers some useful features like P2P traffic support and GhostBear mode, its performance can be inconsistent. Users may experience limited streaming options and slower speeds when connecting to distant servers. Ultimately, whether or not TunnelBear VPN is suitable for your needs will depend on your specific requirements and priorities.

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