Tunngle 5.8.9

Overview

Tunngle is an interesting package of virtual private network (VPN) service which would appeal to businesses coupled with private chat rooms, private messaging and other services that are aimed at gamers.

There are free accounts, Premium and Lifetime membership options. The free account includes LAN emulation facilities, network chat, improved gaming performance, encrypted channels, some additional firewall protection, an instant messaging system, access to public networks with up to 255 online players, plus basic private networks with up to 32 players and a dynamic virtual IP address. The features available with the Premium and Lifetime membership options add some specialty configurations and options but are not needed to get the most use from this software.

For the gaming community, the Tunngle service provides a way to connect via VPN, conduct anonymous chats, organize the next clan tournament and share files securely between clan members. For business owners, the software can also be used to hold private chats with one or more employees, share files privately and other accessible features. Therefore, the software is by no means only something that is useful for gamers as many of the features around encrypted chat and encrypted file transfer have some applicability to employers and especially those outsourcing to remote workers.

Installation

The installation process completed without issues. The software offers to check during the installation process to see if there is a newer version before completing the setup procedure. There is also a choice whether to opt for the simple or custom installation.

The Tunnel Gadget is offered for installation. This can browse and search the desktop, create a customized network alarm and review favorite networks for activity.

Tunngle requires Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 or Windows 8.x (32-bit and 64-bit both supported).

Interface

The interface has an all-black look which has tabbed menu options for Home, Community, System and Help.

In the Community section, there is a screen with a Browser pane with different categories of games to choose between. The games then list in the right pane to choose between. The user can connect based on the game they are interested in.

The interface is clearly designed for games who are playing in a darkened room. Some business users might have a little difficulty figuring out the interface. However, there are many skins that come with the application which can alter the appearance considerably.

Pros

• Connect securely to a network of business users or gamers
• Access encrypted chat rooms
• Send files over encrypted lines
• See who and how many people are connected based on games
• Targets gamers' needs well
• Skins included
• Unlimited membership offer
• Free version available

Cons

• Difficult for business users to make use of the product, especially with the initially different to understand interface.

Conclusion

Tunngle is a useful VPN and communication tool that offers different ways to chat one-on-one, talk as part of a gaming clan or send files between users. The tool is aimed at gamers, but it could also be used by businesses, especially those that outsource globally.