A Private Virtual Network (VPN) is a term that refers to a network technology that creates a secure network connection over a public network such as the internet or a private network owned by a service provider.

There are various benefits associated with the use of VPN.

• To start with, it secures your internet connection over non-secure networks.
• Second, the user becomes anonymous and this protects their online identity.
• Third, the user can reside in any country and still overcome geographic web barriers.
• Fourth, a VPN works with everything on your device that includes instant messaging or file sharing.
• Lastly, it bypasses internet restrictions as well as censorship.

Two of the most popular VPN’s are HideMyArse.com and HotSpotShield.

Which one should you use?

The Pros and Cons of HideMyass

HideMyAss has been operating since 2005 and serves 53 countries with more than 38000 IP addresses available. The service has several advantages.

• To start with, it has an easy application process.
• Second, it has fast servers and there is no need to switch servers between locations.
• Third, it has unlimited bandwidth.
• Fourth, there is money back guarantee for the first 30 days.
• Lastly, it has an excellent support service.

Despite its advantages, HideMyAss has several drawbacks.

• To start with, most of its servers are located in the US.
• Second, there is limited offshore server locations.
• Third, it has no fixed IPs. Consequently, Pay pal and credit card merchants face some difficulties using this service.
• Lastly, it only uses 128-bit encryption while the competitors use the 256-bit encryption.

The Pros and Cons of HotSpotShield

Provided by Anchor Free, this service allows the user to surf the internet privately. It has several advantages.

• To start with, it is convenient for students and business travelers who often need to protect their online activities in Wi-Fi hotspots.
• Second, it can be of great help in regions that are subject to censorship and internet restrictions.
• Lastly, it has both free and paid services thus enabling those who cannot afford the service to still use the free option.

Its main disadvantage is that the free version has loud advertising which may be irritating.

Similarities Between HideMyAss and HotSpotShield

Whilst both services are unique and have their own distinct advantages, they are also similar in a number of ways:

• To start with, both VPNs have an operating system that is Mac Compatible and PC compatible.
• Second, in both cases, the intended user is personal.
• Third, in both cases, one can use the following devices: Android compatible, cellphone, iOS compatible, and tablet compatible.
• Fourth, one can pay for both VPNs using  American Express, pay pal, visa, and MasterCard.
• Fifth, in both cases, the customer support system is quite strong with a dedicated customer service team.
• Sixth, both VPNs have a shared IP. Seventh, in both cases, there is an Open VPN protocol.
• Lastly, both services are readily available in and outside the United States.

Differences Between HideMyAss and HotSpotShield

There are plenty of similarities, but also plenty of differences.

• To start with, the operating system of HideMyAss is Linux compatible while it is not for HotSpotShield.
• Second, HideMyAss can use DDWRT router, Nokia, and windows mobile while the HotSpotShield is not used in such devices.
• Third, in purchasing HideMyAss services, one can use American Express, Bank Transfer, Bitcoin, Diners club, Google checkout, JCB, pay pal, Visa, and MasterCard. On the contrary, one can only use American Express, Pay pal, and Visa/Master card in HotSpotShield.
• Fourth, the support systems in HideMyAss include phone support, skype, and remote desk top. On the contrary, the support system in HotSpotShield is only the forum and live chat.
• Lastly, HotSpotShield has a dedicated IP while HideMyAss does not.
• In addition, HideMyAss has Total IPs while the HotSpotShield does not.

Conclusion

Generally, both services have considerable levels of internet privacy. Arriving at a preference largely depends on certain factors such as cost, geographic coverage desired, level of travel, payment options desired, the purpose of using the internet and extent of internet privacy the user desires.