“An integrated security feature offered within Dashlane’s Premium and Friends & Family plans, providing users with Hotspot Shield’s reputable (but questionable) VPN service to enhance online privacy and security.”
A virtual private network (VPN) is an important tool for improving internet security and privacy. A VPN protects sensitive data from potential risks by encrypting internet connections, especially when utilizing unprotected networks. Additionally, it allows users to conceal their IP addresses, increasing anonymity and protecting against surveillance. Dashlane VPN stands out in this setting as an essential component of the entire Dashlane password management and digital identity solution.
The VPN, which is completely integrated into the Dashlane app, provides users with an added degree of security, especially while accessing the internet on unknown networks. Dashlane VPN, which is powered by Hotspot Shield, uses strong encryption algorithms like AES-256 and includes features like Hydra and IKEv2/IPSec tunneling. Dashlane users may now set up their Premium VPN account right from the Dashlane app, stressing a user-friendly approach to safeguarding online activity across different platforms.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Plan Restrictions Five Device Limit Potential Speed Issues Hotspot Shield History No VPN for Free Plans |
|
| Bottom Line Dashlane VPN, which is included in the Premium and Friends & Family plans, provides a streamlined and cost-effective option for those looking for top-tier password management as well as solid VPN services. Dashlane offers a holistic approach to online security, combining powerful encryption, secure tunneling protocols, and a user-friendly interface into a single platform, making it an enticing alternative for individuals who value privacy and convenience. |
What is Dashlane?
Dashlane is a password management and digital identity system that aims to improve online security and simplify user experiences. Dashlane, at its core, is a safe vault for storing and managing complex passwords, allowing users to create unique credentials for each of their accounts without having to memorize them. The platform uses strong encryption techniques, especially the bulletproof AES-256 encryption combined with the SHA-256 hash function, to create an almost impenetrable security combination.
Notably, Dashlane goes beyond password management by including a Virtual Private Network (VPN) solution in partnership with Hotspot Shield. This extra layer of security is available to Dashlane Premium and Premium Plus users, as well as Team and Business users. Administrators of Dashlane’s Friends & Family plans also have VPN access, further separating Dashlane’s offers based on membership tiers. The VPN enables safe internet browsing, particularly on unprotected networks, and so increases user privacy online. Dashlane’s relationship with Hotspot Shield provides VPN protection as well as 24/7 Tech Support.
Users can enable the Hotspot Shield VPN with Dashlane by creating a Hotspot Shield Premium account directly from the Dashlane app. The VPN may be used on up to five devices, and users can control their VPN settings effortlessly through the Dashlane app, resulting in a comprehensive and user-friendly approach to digital security.
Dashlane VPN Protection
Dashlane’s partnership with Hotspot Shield strengthens its VPN protection, giving consumers a more robust and secure online experience. The integration of Hotspot Shield’s Premium VPN service within the Dashlane app is at the heart of this relationship. Hotspot Shield, a well-known VPN service, introduces its expertise to Dashlane, providing users with immediate access to a premium VPN solution from their password management platform.
The collaboration allows Dashlane users to easily set up their Hotspot Shield Premium VPN account through the Dashlane app. This integration streamlines the onboarding process, allowing users to reap the benefits of a VPN without requiring extensive configurations. Dashlane’s focus on user-friendly security solutions is consistent with Hotspot Shield’s reputation for providing a high-quality and dependable VPN service.
In addition to VPN protection, the collaboration includes 24/7 Tech Support, which addresses any problems or issues that consumers may have. This support infrastructure ensures that consumers can get help whenever they need it, contributing to a great overall experience with the integrated VPN service.
Encryption and Tunnelling Protocol
Dashlane VPN puts a great emphasis on security by utilizing powerful encryption and tunneling technologies. Dashlane VPN’s encryption is powered by the impregnable AES-256 algorithm, which is widely regarded as the gold standard for data encryption. AES-256 encryption ensures that data sent between the user’s device and the VPN server is extremely secure and practically impenetrable to unauthorized access. This encryption strength is critical for protecting sensitive data, such as login passwords, personal information, and other data, from potential threats while conducting online activities.
In addition to the powerful encryption standard, Dashlane VPN provides customers with a selection of tunneling protocols to maximize their online experience. Hydra, a proprietary protocol developed by Hotspot Shield, Dashlane’s VPN partner, is one of the key protocols used. Hydra, a customized version of the widely used OpenVPN protocol, is popular for its speed and security. Its optimization strives to provide a fast and dependable connection, which contributes to Dashlane’s dedication to providing a smooth and effective VPN service.
Dashlane VPN also supports the IKEv2/IPSec tunneling protocol. IKEv2 (Internet Key Exchange version 2) is well-known for its capacity to establish secure connections via cryptographic key exchange. This combination, when combined with the IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) protocol, provides stability and reliability, making it particularly well-suited for mobile devices. Dashlane caters to varying preferences and usage circumstances by offering customers an option between Hydra and IKEv2/IPSec, letting them to adapt their VPN experience based on specific demands such as speed, security, and device compatibility.
How to Setup Dashlane VPN?
Using the Hotspot Shield VPN with Dashlane is a simple process, with the stages differing somewhat depending on the platform, whether it’s the web app, Android app, iOS app, or macOS.
To configure Hotspot Shield VPN on Dashlane’s web app, go to the “Tools” section of the menu and pick “VPN.” If you don’t see the VPN section, your Dashlane plan does not offer VPN access. Enter your email address, read and agree to Hotspot Shield’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, and then activate your account. Dashlane will generate a safe password for you. Select “Download it” in the web app to get the Hotspot Shield app.
For Android users, navigate to the “Tools” menu and select “VPN.” If you don’t see the VPN area, it’s because your package does not contain VPN. On the Virtual Private Network screen, activate your account by entering your Hotspot Shield email, agreeing to the rules, and confirming. Dashlane will generate a safe password for you. Download the Hotspot Shield app from the VPN page’s “Get the App” section or from your mobile device’s app store.
Dashlane users on iOS can configure the Hotspot Shield VPN by heading to the “Tools” menu and selecting “VPN.” If you don’t see the VPN section, your package does not include VPN. On the Virtual Private Network page, activate your account by entering your Hotspot Shield email, agreeing to the rules, and confirming. Dashlane will generate a strong password for you. Download the Hotspot Shield app by clicking “Launch Hotspot Shield” on the Virtual Private Network screen or searching for it in your mobile device’s app store.
Select “VPN” from the “Tools” section of the macOS app’s menu. If the VPN area is hidden, it means your plan does not contain VPN. On the Virtual Private Network screen, activate your account by entering your Hotspot Shield email, agreeing to the rules, and confirming. Dashlane will generate a strong password for you. Select “Launch Hotspot Shield” on the Virtual Private Network screen to download the Hotspot Shield app.
After you’ve configured your Hotspot Shield VPN with Dashlane, launch the Hotspot Shield app on your device and sign in with the email address and password you saved in the Dashlane VPN area. In the Dashlane app, you can copy your Hotspot Shield login information or use the Autofill tool to enter your login information automatically. Simply tap the power button within the Hotspot Shield app after logging in to activate your VPN, adding an extra layer of security to your online activities.
Who Can Access Dashlane VPN?
The availability of Hotspot Shield VPN through Dashlane is dependent on the user’s membership plan, distinguishing between those who have and do not have access to the VPN service. Individuals who have subscribed to specific Dashlane plans benefit from Hotspot Shield VPN, however others may not have this option included in their membership.
Hotspot Shield VPN is available to Dashlane Premium and Premium Plus subscribers. These plans are intended to provide an expanded set of services in addition to basic password management functions, such as the integration of a secure and efficient VPN service.
Hotspot Shield VPN access is also available to Dashlane Team and Business plan users. This extends VPN security to organizational settings, guaranteeing that teams and enterprises can secure their online activities and communications using the integrated VPN service.
Users with VPN access include administrators of Dashlane Friends & Family plans. This feature is given to administrators, allowing them to use VPN protection to improve security within a shared family or friend network. However, regular members invited to Friends & Family plans by the admin do not have VPN access, emphasizing the differences in rights within this plan structure.
Individuals registered to Dashlane Free or Advanced plans, Dashlane Starter plans, or Dashlane Premium plan trials, on the other hand, are not given with VPN access. Similarly, Dashlane Friends & Family plan users who are not administrators on the plan do not have VPN access. Furthermore, Dashlane Premium trials or subscriptions obtained through partnering programs, such as special student discounts, do not allow VPN access.
Specifications
- Encryption: AES-256
- Tunneling Protocols: Hydra, IKEv2/IPSec
- Server Network: 1800+ servers across 80+ countries
- Platform Support: Web, Android, iOS, macOS
- Integration: Hotspot Shield partnership
- VPN Access: Premium, Premium Plus, Team, Business, Friends & Family Admin plans
- Device Limit: Up to five devices
- Tech Support: 24/7
- No VPN for: Free, Advanced, Starter plans, Friends & Family plan members (non-admin), Premium trial users, or certain partnership program plans
- Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, PayPal, direct bank account (No support for cryptocurrencies)
Price
Dashlane offers a variety of price models for its Personal use subscriptions, with the VPN capability included at certain tiers. The pricing system is divided into four categories: free, advanced, premium, and friends and family. Notably, the VPN capability is included with the Premium and Friends & Family plans, which improves online security for those who choose these options.
Users considering the Premium plan will pay $4.99 per month if invoiced annually, for a total of $59.99 per year. Users can also opt for monthly billing, which costs $7.49 per month. This service includes not just the Hotspot Shield VPN, but also extra premium features like unlimited devices, safe file storage, dark web monitoring, and the ability to share passwords with emergency contacts.
The Hotspot Shield VPN is included in the Friends & Family package, which costs $7.49 per month when billed annually (a total of $89.99 per year). This package offers premium capabilities to up to 5 people, allowing families or small groups to enjoy comprehensive online security. The Friends & Family subscription, like the Premium plan, provides unlimited devices, safe file storage, and enhanced monitoring tools.
It is worth noting that the VPN service isn’t included in the Free or Advanced plans. While these subscriptions include basic password management tools, users who want the added degree of security provided by a VPN should choose the Premium or Friends & Family options.
Final Verdict
Dashlane VPN is an appealing option for consumers who want to combine strong password management with an integrated VPN service. The application’s use of the powerful AES-256 encryption algorithm, as well as support for tunneling protocols such as Hydra and IKEv2/IPSec, ensures a secure online experience. The strategic partnership with Hotspot Shield boosts the VPN’s legitimacy even further, yet any worries regarding Hotspot Shield’s prior data privacy issues should be noted.
The accessibility of Dashlane VPN across a variety of platforms, including web, Android, iOS, and macOS, contributes to its user-friendly appeal. However, the VPN’s server network, which includes over 1800 servers in over 80 locations, may cause speed and performance discrepancies, particularly during peak usage times. The VPN option is only accessible in Premium, Premium Plus, Team, Business, and Friends & Family Admin plans, and there is a five-device maximum for VPN usage, which may be an issue for users with many devices.
While Dashlane VPN provides 24/7 technical help, its accessibility is limited by package limitations. VPN access is not included in the Free, Advanced, and Starter plans, as well as Friends & Family plan members who are not administrators. This functionality is also unavailable to premium trial users and persons on special partnership program plans.
