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Hotspot Shield VS Microsoft Authenticator

Compare Hotspot Shield VS Microsoft Authenticator and see what are their differences

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Verify your customers in under 15 seconds anywhere in the world with a cutting-edge SaaS & API platform for Identity Verification and AML/KYC compliance. featured
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  3. » Reviews
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Hotspot Shield logo Hotspot Shield

Hotspot Shield is a software application developed by AnchorFree, Inc.

Microsoft Authenticator logo Microsoft Authenticator

One app to quickly and securely verify your identity online, for all of your accounts.
  • Hotspot Shield Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-17
  • Microsoft Authenticator Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-26

Hotspot Shield features and specs

  • High-Speed Performance
    Hotspot Shield is known for its high-speed connections, making it ideal for streaming, large downloads, and gaming.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The application is designed with a simple, intuitive interface that makes it easy for both technical and non-technical users to operate.
  • Large Server Network
    Hotspot Shield provides access to a large number of servers in various locations around the world, which can help bypass geo-restrictions.
  • Strong Security Features
    It offers robust encryption and security features such as malware protection, which enhance user privacy and data security.
  • Free Version Available
    A free version of Hotspot Shield is available, allowing users to try the service before committing to a paid subscription.

Possible disadvantages of Hotspot Shield

  • Logging Policy
    Hotspot Shield’s privacy policy has been criticized for potential logging of user data, which raises concerns for privacy-conscious users.
  • Ads in Free Version
    The free version of Hotspot Shield includes advertisements, which can be intrusive and disrupt the browsing experience.
  • Limited Features in Free Version
    The free version offers a limited set of features compared to the premium version, which may not meet all user needs.
  • Cost of Premium Version
    The premium subscription can be relatively expensive, which may not be affordable for all users.
  • Inconsistent Performance
    Some users have reported inconsistent performance, such as occasional slowdowns or interruptions depending on the server or location.

Microsoft Authenticator features and specs

  • Enhanced Security
    Microsoft Authenticator provides additional layers of security through multi-factor authentication (MFA) which significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access.
  • Ease of Use
    The app is user-friendly with an intuitive interface, making it simple for both technically savvy and non-technical users to set up and utilize.
  • Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem
    It seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft products and services, including Azure Active Directory, Office 365, and more, providing a unified security experience.
  • Push Notifications
    Users receive push notifications for authentication requests, allowing them to approve or deny access quickly without the need for manually entering a code.
  • Support for Multiple Accounts
    Microsoft Authenticator can handle multiple accounts, including non-Microsoft accounts, making it a versatile tool for managing various authentication needs.
  • One-time Password (OTP) Generation
    The app can generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) for services that require them, ensuring secure logins even when push notifications are unavailable.

Possible disadvantages of Microsoft Authenticator

  • Dependency on Mobile Device
    If the user's mobile device is lost, stolen, or damaged, accessing accounts that rely on Microsoft Authenticator can become challenging.
  • Limited Platform Support
    Microsoft Authenticator primarily supports mobile platforms (iOS and Android), which could be a drawback for users who rely on desktop or other operating systems.
  • Potential Privacy Concerns
    Some users may have concerns about privacy and data collection practices given Microsoft's extensive ecosystem and its handling of personal information.
  • Requires Initial Configuration
    Setting up Microsoft Authenticator and linking it with various services can be time-consuming, especially for users with multiple accounts.
  • Reliance on Internet Connection
    Push notifications and certain features within Microsoft Authenticator require an active internet connection, which might not always be available.
  • Lock-in to Microsoft Services
    The best features and integrations of Microsoft Authenticator are geared towards the Microsoft ecosystem, which might limit its effectiveness if users engage primarily with non-Microsoft services.

Analysis of Hotspot Shield

Overall verdict

  • Hotspot Shield is a reliable choice for users looking for a fast and user-friendly VPN. It particularly excels in performance with streaming and browsing, although users who prioritize privacy above all else might find some concerns due to its U.S.-based jurisdiction.

Why this product is good

  • Hotspot Shield is considered a good VPN due to its fast connection speeds, advanced encryption protocols, and ease of use. It provides a large network of servers, which allows users to bypass geographic restrictions and access content from various regions. Additionally, it offers a free version with limited features and has a simple user interface, making it accessible for beginners.

Recommended for

  • Users who need fast streaming speeds.
  • People looking for a user-friendly VPN.
  • Individuals who require access to region-locked content.

Analysis of Microsoft Authenticator

Overall verdict

  • Microsoft Authenticator is a highly recommended tool for users seeking enhanced security for their online accounts. Its comprehensive security features, coupled with seamless integration with Microsoft services, make it a top choice among authentication apps. The app's user interface is intuitive, making it suitable for both tech-savvy individuals and those less familiar with technology.

Why this product is good

  • Microsoft Authenticator is considered a robust and reliable authentication app due to its integration with Microsoft services, ease of use, and strong security features. It supports two-factor authentication (2FA) and multifactor authentication (MFA), offering an extra layer of security by requiring not only a password but also a verification code. The app is also easy to set up and supports multiple accounts, including third-party services, which makes it versatile. Push notifications provide a speedy and user-friendly approach to approve logins, enhancing the user experience and ensuring security without much hassle.

Recommended for

    Microsoft Authenticator is recommended for individuals who use Microsoft services regularly, such as Office 365 or Azure, as well as anyone looking for a secure and easy-to-use two-factor authentication app. It's ideal for professionals who require robust security measures to protect sensitive information, as well as everyday users who want to boost the security of their personal accounts. The app is particularly useful for those managing multiple accounts across different platforms due to its support for various services.

Hotspot Shield videos

+ Add

Hotspot Shield Review - Brutally Honest Review in 2019

More videos:

  • Review - Hotspot Shield VPN Review
  • Review - Hotspot Shield review: Should you get it? | VPNpro

Microsoft Authenticator videos

+ Add

Microsoft Authenticator for Android

More videos:

  • Review - Using Microsoft Authenticator App to Protect Your Online Credential

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Hotspot Shield and Microsoft Authenticator)

Hotspot Shield

Microsoft Authenticator

VPN
100 100%
VPN
0% 0
Identity And Access Management
0 0%
Identity And Access Management
100% 100
Cloud VPN
100 100%
Cloud VPN
0% 0
Two Factor Authentication
0 0%
Two Factor Authentication
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Hotspot Shield and Microsoft Authenticator

Hotspot Shield Reviews

The Best Top 10 VPNs for Spotify 2025
Hotspot Shield is a popular VPN solution for Spotify users, offering fast and secure connections to its vast network of servers. With a user-friendly interface and 24/7 customer support, Hotspot Shield is perfect for music lovers.
Source: thespotifypremiumapks.com
Turbo VPN Alternatives – Best Free VPN Apps For Android in 2022
Hotspot Shield is the best and most popular VPN proxy application for Android smartphones. It takes security and privacy very seriously. Since it’s a VPN app, it can be used to unlock geo-restricted websites and content.
Source: techviral.net
112 Best Chrome Extensions You Should Try (2021 List)
Hotspot Shield extension is a freemium security tool. It uses WebRTC technologies to hide your IP and uses military-grade encryption to protect your data. Yes! it offers both free and paid plans, but as free, it only connects to one location and provides primary security. But premium subscription plans come with a 45-day money-back guarantee. However, for beginners, the free...
Source: www.einsstark.tech
8 Best Turbo VPN Alternatives for Android and iOS
HotSpot Shield is yet another VPN that offers unlimited data just like Turbo VPN. It does not throttle the speed and the servers are always up which translates to excellent performance. However, bear in mind, under the free service, you have servers only from the US region which could be a bummer for some. Nevertheless, the best part about Hotspot Shield is that it offers...
Source: beebom.com
8 Similar Apps like Psiphon that are Actually Better
Hotspot Shield VPN is yet another incredible app like Psiphon. However, it does require you to subscribe to a plan to be able to utilize the VPN service. The pricing plans are similar to the ones offered by other VPN providers.
Source: techreviewpro.com

Microsoft Authenticator Reviews

7 Best Google Authenticator Alternatives For Android And iOS
I’m still not sure why Google is not providing any passcode or app lock for their app when everybody else is doing it. Take Microsoft Authenticator, for example, this also lets you secure your accounts with the app lock.
Source: www.techuntold.com
The Best Authenticator Apps for 2023
Along with standard TOTP multi-factor support, Microsoft Authenticator includes optional secure password generation and lets you log in to Microsoft accounts with a button press or by tapping a two-digit number in a push notification. The app also enables schools and workplaces to register users’ devices. If you use this app, you can turn on account recovery. That way, when...
Source: www.pcmag.com
Top 6 Google Authenticator Alternatives in 2023
Available for both Android and iOS, Microsoft Authenticator offers a similar experience to Google’s, working with both Microsoft and non-Microsoft accounts.
Source: www.techrepublic.com
The Best 2FA Apps 2021: Locking Down Your Online Accounts
The app supports passwordless authentication for Microsoft apps, including OneDrive and Office 365. With the app, you can approve your login using your phone’s fingerprint scanner, a face scan or any other way you can prove that you are who you say you are on your device. Microsoft Authenticator supports cloud backup, too, either through Microsoft’s own servers on...
Source: www.cloudwards.net
10 best two-factor authenticator apps for Android
Microsoft Authenticator is Google Authenticator’s biggest competitor. It’s popular, it works well, and it works for stuff other than Microsoft apps. Otherwise, it’s actually a fairly simple app not unlike Google Authenticator. You log into a site or an app, it asks for a code, and you open this app to get one. We usually recommend Google Authenticator to people who use...
Source: www.androidauthority.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Microsoft Authenticator seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 125 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Hotspot Shield mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Hotspot Shield yet. Tracking of Hotspot Shield recommendations started around Mar 2021.

Microsoft Authenticator mentions (125)

  • Debug C Program in Mac OS
    { // Use IntelliSense to learn about possible attributes. // Hover to view descriptions of existing attributes. // For more information, visit: https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=830387 "version": "0.2.0", "configurations": [ { "name": "Launch (lldb)", "type": "cppdbg", "request": "launch", "program":... - Source: dev.to / over 1 year ago
  • Ask HN: Is there hope for Microsoft 365 support?
    It has been a few years since I have dealt with Microsoft's postmasters team for email delivery issues but the link to to use to submit an email delivery issues is: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkID=614866. - Source: Hacker News / about 1 month ago
  • [PostgreSQL][Entity Framework Core] Try ASP.NET Core Identity with React
    An error occurred while accessing the Microsoft.Extensions.Hosting services. Continuing without the application service provider. Error: The entry point exited without ever building an IHost. Unable to create a 'DbContext' of type 'RuntimeType'. The exception 'Unable to resolve service for type 'Microsoft.EntityFrameworkCore.DbContextOptions`1[OfficeFileAccessor.OfficeFileAccessorContext]' while attempting to... - Source: dev.to / 4 months ago
  • Terraform Cookbook: Development Environment Recipe
    # Follow the [VSCode installation guide](https://code.visualstudio.com/docs/setup/linux) for other instalation methods. Sudo apt-get install curl Curl -L -o vscode.deb https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkID=760868 Sudo apt install ./vscode.deb Code # After VSCode launch, use Quick Open (Ctrl+P), paste the command "ext install HashiCorp.terraform" and press enter. # Or install the extension... - Source: dev.to / 5 months ago
  • Run godoc Automatically
    { // See https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=733558 // for the documentation about the tasks.json format "version": "2.0.0", "tasks": [ { "label": "godoc", "type": "shell", "command": "godoc", "options": { "cwd": "${workspaceFolder}", "shell": { "args": ["-c"], ... - Source: dev.to / 6 months ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Hotspot Shield and Microsoft Authenticator, you can also consider the following products

ProtonVPN - ProtonVPN is a security focused FREE VPN service, developed by CERN and MIT scientists. Use the web anonymously, unblock websites & encrypt your connection.

Google Authenticator - Google Authenticator is a multifactor app for mobile devices.

OpenVPN - OpenVPN - The Open Source VPN

Authy - Best rated Two-Factor Authentication smartphone app for consumers, simplest 2fa Rest API for developers and a strong authentication platform for the enterprise.

TunnelBear - Really simple VPN to browse the web privately & anonymously.

LastPass Authenticator - LastPass is an online password manager and form filler that makes web browsing easier and more secure.

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