SETTING UP & USING A VPN
Setting up and using a VPN is both quick and easy. In this example, we’ll be using Tunnelbear to access the Chicago Tribune website ( www.chicagotribune.com) which, at the time of writing, was blocked to UK visitors.
With a simple design and up to 1.5GB of free data per month, Tunnelbear is great for anyone trying out a VPN for the first time, but the steps will be similar no matter which VPN you choose.
STEP 1
Visit www.tunnelbear.com/download. The Tunnelbear installation file will automatically download – run and install it (see screenshot). When prompted, create a free account - you’ll need to supply your email address and create a password. You’ll then be sent a verification email. When this arrives (you may need to check your spam folder), click the ‘Verify my account’ link. Next, go back to the Tunnelbear VPN software and log in. Skip (or read) the tips on using Tunnelbear to continue.
STEP 2
You’ll now see a map showing where Tunnelbear has VPN servers. A sheep icon (see screenshot) indicates you’re not connected to a VPN and also shows the location of your current IP address (UK in our case). Click the orange Turn Tunnelbear On button in the middle of the window. You’ll now be connected to the fastest VPN server (most likely one that’s based in the UK). The process takes around 15 seconds and you’ll be notified when the connection has been secured.
STEP 3
Since we’re looking to unblock the Chicago Tribune website, we’ll need to switch to a VPN server that’s outside the EU. First, go to www.chicagotribune.com to see how it looks before you switch to a US server. Next, select United States from the country list at the top (this is set to Auto by default), or drag the map to the US, click the tunnel icon, then click Yes (see screenshot). Tunnelbear will now switch to its US VPN server.
STEP 4
When Tunnelbear confirms your new VPN connection has been secured, return to your browser and reload www.chicagotribune.com. Because you’ll now be using a Us-based IP address, the Chicago Tribune website will assume you’re a US visitor and the block will be lifted. Your VPN connection to the US server will remain active until you choose a different country, turn the VPN off (by clicking the power button at the top of the window), exit Tunnelbear or restart your PC.