We all know very well that both privacy and security are two issues that Internet users value a lot. That is why many times they choose to use different software and tools that simply help to improve all these aspects. Hence, today in this article we will discuss about the differences between them, of course, I am talking about none other than Proxy and VPN.
What Is the Difference Between A VPN And A Proxy?
Both privacy and security are two major issues that Internet users value a lot nowadays. That is why many times they choose to use different software and tools that simply help to improve all these aspects. Hence, today in this article we will discuss about the differences between them, of course, I am talking about none other than Proxy and VPN.
So, basically, in this article, we will explain the main differences between both services and we will also discuss that when you use a Proxy and VPN. And not only that even we will also give some interesting recommendations as well. So, now without wasting much time let’s get started and explore the article.
Also Read: Top 100 Best Proxy Servers Sites 2018
What is a Proxy?
A proxy is basically a server which is an intermediary between a certain software or application of our computer with the receiving server. As when you connect to a web page your information get stored as IP, but using a proxy server would have the IP address of that proxy, not yours. In this way what the Proxy does is to mask our IP address to the receiving server but only under a specific software, not over the rest of our navigation.
So, a proxy server can be used simply to access a web page or a service that is not available in particular but does not encrypt or protect the rest of our navigation so that security would not be fully secured.
Here are some characteristics of a Proxy server:-
- Protects only access to a specific program
- It simply masks the original IP
- It’s easier to configure
- Generally cheaper than the VPN
What is a VPN?
While now if we talk about a VPN (Virtual Private Network) then let clarify one thing first that a VPN provides a higher security than the Proxy. But, how? As it simply encrypts and protects all of our traffic to the other server, unlike the application that we had previously talked.
Hence, in this way, if you are looking to encrypt and provide greater security to your internet network connection, then it is very clear that you should use a VPN (Virtual Private Network), but if you are looking for a specific access to a web page, then you may go for the other one.
Here some characteristics of a VPN (Virtual Private Network):-
- VPN simply encrypts and protects all of your traffic, not just that of a program
- It is also simple to configure
- It also masks the original IP
- VPN is more expensive than a Proxy server
Proxy vs VPN: Main differences and how to choose?
As there are many users who simply get confused between both tools. However, the truth is that both serve to increase the privacy in the network. As with both of these services we can simply hide our IP address when browsing the internet. However, there are differences and many users get confused between those differences and make the wrong selection.
So, let’s start by explaining what a Proxy is exactly. Basically, it is like a mask that covers our side facing the Internet. As we told earlier that it is an intermediary between our device and the server.
What it does is just that, masking our IP when surfing the Internet. Of course, what it does is hide the original IP, but it does not encrypt our connection. Hence, it does not increase further security.
Moreover, a Proxy only acts as an intermediary between a particular application or service and the server. Hence, it doesn’t do anything else with the rest of our network connection to enhance the security.
While a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a more complete service. It is a very useful tool when we want to protect our connection. In VPN we can simply hide the IP address, as well as avoid geographic blocking of certain services in some countries.
It is very useful if we are going to connect to public networks, as in this way, our data travels safely and we avoid the risk of being hijacked. It is one of the best ways to keep our network connection and internet browsing private since it helps to protect and increase the security and privacy.
What to choose “Proxy or VPN”?
Basically now, we already know how a VPN and a Proxy works and how they are different from each other. But, how to choose which is better? If we look for something more complete, that protects our connections and offers us a series of interesting options, undoubtedly it would be best to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). However, if we seek simplicity, the speed of use and we simply want to hide our IP, then no doubt, Proxy will be perfect for you.
Also Read: How To Choose The Best VPN – 6 Factors That You Must Consider
While the price varies between a VPN and Proxy, as in this sense, a proxy would be much cheaper than a VPN. Hence, if we only want to hide our IP, a Proxy is more than enough. It is true that both services have free options, but we already know the risk of using VPN for free.
In short, these are some differences when we have to choose between a Proxy and VPN. So, what do you think about this? Simply share all your views and thoughts in the comment section below.
