Showbox is a streaming app that was created with Android users in mind but that can, with a couple tricks, also be installed and used on devices running other operating systems. It doesn’t differ much from other streaming alternatives, and allows users to watch online HD movies, shows, documentaries and whatnot, including some of the world’s most popular picks.
However, Showbox is under a lot of controversy, primarily because the service is completely free, which in turn has raised the typical concerns surrounding copyright infringement. Given this, having a VPN is practically mandatory for Showbox users to remain anonymous to their ISP and avoid any legal notices. VPNs can easily be used across different platforms and anywhere in the world, which in turn also allows users to access the libraries of the countries with the most content.
First of all, it’s important to know that the Showbox app is not available from Google’s Play Store. Instead, it must be sideloaded directly from their website, which means you must first alter the settings of your device to allow it to install apps in such a manner. This not only includes Android smartphones and tablets but smart TVs as well.
It can also run on your PC by downloading BlueStacks, an Android emulator, and then downloading the app normally. iOS users, meanwhile, need to install vShare and then use this to search for Movie Box.
One of the most common Showbox problems is an error regarding a particular server being geo-blocked, something a VPN also manages to solve with ease. Additionally, some of the latest updates made the service much more unstable, often freezing or shutting down whenever the library was accessed. The best solution to this is to download previous versions of the app.
Yes and no. Showbox works on a torrent basis, and so when it’s not possible to stream a video the app offers the option to download it to watch it again later – only adding more salt to the wound. Because of this, Showbox is illegal wherever torrents are illegal, which is the case for the majority of the world, obviously including the U.S.
Outside of that, however, there have been some concerns raised over the fear of malware and spyware. Fortunately, the app itself doesn’t pose any problems in this regard and it is safe to install. The only problem that may arise is from the fact that accepting the end user license agreement will automatically install ads on the app, though usually these don’t bother you while streaming.
The best option for Showbox users is definitely to have access to a VPN. Not only do these give much-needed protection to avoid legal notices, but they can also overcome geo-blocks to provide the greatest wealth of content. With a VPN, connections are constantly encrypted and hidden from any prying eyes on the internet, not to mention that ISPs won’t be able to track your activity, either.
On the other hand, that same encryption will be responsible for a natural loss of speed, though it is possible to reduce this impact by opting for physically closer servers or lighter encryption protocols. Therefore it’s recommended to pick a provider with a decent VPN network – preferably with various servers in the U.S. – along with a number of different protocols and encryption levels to properly tailor the balance between speed and security to your own needs. Likewise, it’s important to be able to rely on a kill switch feature, since we’re talking about torrents and it’s possible that brief DNS or IP leaks can give your real location away and, therefore, become a serious problem.
A surfing shark might not conjure up an image of security, but it does represent an effective way of defending yourself from the threats of the deep ocean that is the internet.
Established in 2018, Surfshark offers aesthetically-pleasing apps for multiple platforms. The Netherlands-based company continues to enhance its cybersecurity, merging with Nord Security in 2022. The VPN service doesn’t miss out on any critical security features, such as a static IP address and kill switch, and provides servers in more than 100 countries.
Additionally, Surfshark offers encryption protocols (including WireGuard) and P2P support, alternative IDs, and a no-logs policy. It is one of the cheapest services on the market and offers a 7-day free trial for Android, iOS, and macOS devices, plus a 30-day money-back guarantee to test the service risk free.
First of all, please do not feel intimidated: the perhaps vulgar name of the UK-based company is intended to be a pun. HMA VPN has a mascot in the form of a donkey, and thus this little wordplay is nothing to worry about. You should rather pay attention to the fact that HMA VPN is easily one of the best VPN companies today; they offer much more than a standard package. You are also welcome to try out the free web proxy, an anonymous e-mail service and an IP:Port premium service, which is essentially a more elaborate proxy product. On top of this, you also have VPN browser extensions for Chrome and Mozilla to use. HMA VPN does all this while still maintaining decent speeds and healthy prices. These are coupled with the fact that HMA VPN remains one of few providers who still enable access to Netflix. But the most impressive thing about this organization is the number of locations provided – it is unprecedented today.
NordVPN has already managed to conquer the market by being one of the most reputable and trustworthy services ever made. Among its vast arsenal of features, the close attention given to security is one of the major highlights, thanks to the presence of an automatic kill switch, protection against DNS leaks, ads and malware, and even double VPN servers.
Speaking of which, these are only some of NordVPN's special servers that compose a global network filled with unusual locations, P2P countries, support for Onion over VPN, and more. NordVPN has a handful of different subscriptions in the form of simple apps for all kinds of devices and user types.
For as little as $3.09 per month, users can enjoy all the perks of having a secure and high-speed VPN. Plus, a generous refund policy allows you to get your money back if you decide NordVPN isn’t for you during the first 30 days.
The Best Reviews team researches and tests all products first-hand. We've been reviewing products and services since 2012 and are proud to only publish human-created content.
Share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with other users. Your feedback helps our community make better decisions.
©2012-2025 Best Reviews, a clovio brand –
All rights
reserved
