Proxy Servers vs. VPN: Which One Do You Need?
If you’re a frequent internet user, you’ve probably come across the terms proxy server and virtual private networks (VPNs). But do you know how to tell the two apart? Yes, the two play a fundamental role in facilitating secure internet access, and many use the two terms interchangeably. However, did you know that they work very differently?
Both proxy servers and VPNs efficiently mask your IP address, enabling users to access geo-restricted digital content while enjoying safe internet use. However, VPNs work better in guaranteeing online privacy than proxy servers. And there are many more differences and similarities between these two that you should consider when looking for the most appropriate choice for your needs.
The Basics: What is a Proxy Server vs. VPN
In essence, a proxy server and a VPN both serve as an intermediary gateway that hides IP addresses and reroutes internet traffic through remote servers. But when it comes to proxy servers, it only masks your IP address per app or website. In other words, as you use a certain browser to access the internet, the computer will send all the website data to the proxy server first, where it will hide your IP address and then send it back to you.
Alternatively, a VPN also hides your computer’s IP address. However, it does this by sending all the website data directed to your computer, whether from an app or website, through an encrypted tunnel. That way, parties like your Internet Service Provider (ISP), the government, and even hackers cannot see your activities online – they will just see that you’re using a VPN server.
Comparing Proxy Servers and VPNs: Key Differences
Now that you understand the basics of how VPNs and proxy servers work, let’s dive into where their differences come into play.
- VPNs are Better for Online Security and Privacy Compared to Proxy Servers
The truth is that proxy servers and VPNs work effortlessly when it comes to hiding IP addresses. But if you want to, perhaps, enjoy a geo-restricted social online casino, only a VPN can encrypt your data and provide user privacy. That way, even as you purchase gold coins and sweep coins to indulge in casino-like gameplay on such platforms, hackers and other unauthorized parties cannot access your information.
What’s more, even if you’re playing social casino games at the top social casino websites or sweepstakes apps, a VPN will ensure your data is safe and encrypted. So, why not take an extra step to safeguard your sensitive data even as you indulge in social gaming titles and potentially win rewards with real money value? After all, you only need a reliable VPN.
- VPNs are Easier to Use Compared to Proxy Servers
Generally, VPNs are easier to use compared to proxy servers. That’s because a proxy server usually requires users to go into their device network settings (DNS) and add a configuration file or create a setup file before they can start using it. And for many, such settings may sound unfamiliar, causing them to steer clear from utilizing proxy servers altogether.
On the other hand, when using VPNs, all you need to do is download an app and sign in for it to instantly direct you to a secure server, saving you the trouble of fussing with your DNS settings. Nonetheless, worth mentioning is that those who want to use a VPN on the PS or Xbox gaming consoles – despite not necessarily supporting VPNs natively – can also enjoy intuitive installation and overall smooth usage.
After all, VPNs not only protect you from DDOS attacks targeting personal IP addresses, like what happened across Blizzard Entertainment’s World of Warcraft and Diablo 4 servers. But an effective VPN also provides gamers with an alternative to finding servers in night time zones while playing their favorite multiplayer games, enabling them to avoid super busy hosts with high latency rates. Not forgetting that they can access new titles released in other markets easily.
- Proxy Servers are Faster than VPNs
If you’re looking for a faster internet connection and are not necessarily concerned about online privacy and high-level security, a proxy server may be a more suitable option for you. Since it only reroutes web traffic from a specific app or website and doesn’t encrypt data, a proxy server facilitates faster internet access than VPNs. But it’s still slower than a raw internet connection due to the rerouting.
Nonetheless, that’s not to say that VPNs are necessarily slow. In fact, there’s little to no difference in terms of proxy server speeds if you use a VPN provider with the right maintenance protocols and other up-to-date technologies. In most cases, a fast VPN provider only loses about 20% in speed if the internet connection is solid (over 50mbps). What’s more, free proxy servers are known to be overwhelmingly slow due to many people using their servers.
Should You Use a Proxy Server or VPN?
If your intent is to mask your IP address and access geo-restricted internet content, both a proxy server and VPN can do that effectively. If you want speedy internet access and have other cybersecurity solutions on your device to keep you safe online, a proxy server will do the job.
However, if you’re keen on privacy and online security while browsing online, a VPN service is the better choice. After all, not only do VPN servers encrypt your data to hide it from others, but they are also versatile since they work on your device’s operating system, not just an app or website like a proxy server.
So, the choice is ultimately yours! Weigh what matters most to you in light of your online habits and needs, and choose which tool will provide a smooth internet browsing experience.