What is a Proxy?

Proxies are more like web filters. When you are connected to a proxy server, the proxy will hide your IP address and the websites you visit will not see your original IP but the IP address of the proxy. In simple terms, your traffic will be routed through a remote machine that will act as an intermediary between your browser and the website you are visiting. You will appear like you are browsing from the proxy server’s location. But this will happen only when you browse the internet. Your IP address will be changed for the browser you chose but not for your entire internet connection.

You can choose to set up a proxy for other applications you use, as well. But you must set up proxies for all those applications separately. You cannot set up a proxy at the network level, which is only possible with a VPN. You need to remember that proxy servers do not encrypt your internet traffic.

When you use a proxy, your internet traffic will be routed through the proxy server. Similarly, your request will also come back through the same proxy server. Remember, a proxy will not encrypt your internet traffic and it will only hide your IP and reroute your internet traffic.

proxy-server

What is a VPN?

Virtual Private Network, commonly known as VPN masks your IP and location so that the websites you visit cannot see your original IP. Likewise, your Internet Service Provider also will not be able to track your online activity when you use a VPN. That’s because you will be connected to a VPN server and not your original server. VPNs offer more security and privacy and your internet traffic will be routed through an encrypted server.

When you use a VPN, all your programs that depend on the Internet will be protected. All your internet traffic, which includes traffic that comes from your browser or an app will be rerouted. A VPN will hide your original IP address or location and route your traffic through the VPN’s server. A VPN will not only keep your data safe from your ISP but also keep you safe from snoopers and hackers and from government surveillance, as well. A VPN will protect you from website tracking, thereby offering you the utmost security and online privacy.

vpn-encryption

Differences Between Proxy and VPN Services

While VPNs and proxies sport similar features, they are not the same and there are differences between the two. Most proxy servers are free but when it comes to VPNs, it is not really advisable to use a free VPN as free VPNs come with limitations. But you can always go with free proxies. However, proxies are not as reliable as VPNs as proxy server connections are not stable and they drop often. But VPN connections are more reliable. Here are the most common difference between VPNs and proxies.
PROXY VPN
Proxies don’t encrypt your traffic. So you cannot use a proxy while dealing with sensitive information. A VPN can encrypt your internet traffic and keep you safe from online snoopers, hackers, ISPs and even protect you from government surveillance.
Proxies don’t work on the operating system level and you must configure it on every app you use. For eg., if you wish to reroute your browser’s traffic, you have to set up a proxy in your browser. VPNs can encrypt your entire internet connection and reroute all your traffic.
A proxy does not encrypt data. A VPN encrypts data that is transferred.
Proxies are faster than VPNs. It can be slower because VPNs encrypt data that is transferred.

Pros and Cons of a Proxy Server

You can go for a proxy server if you are looking to access geo-restricted websites and for an extra layer of security. But this does mean, your connection will be encrypted as proxies do not encrypt data that is transferred.

Pros of Proxy Server

  • Masks your IP address
  • Allows you to access geo-blocked websites and bypass geo-restrictions
  • Available for free

Cons of Proxy Server

  • Does not offer an encrypted connection
  • Connection speeds may be fast but it could drop often
  • Proxies may keep track of your online browsing activities.

Pros and Cons of VPNs

Pros of VPN

  • Masks your IP and helps stay anonymous online
  • Offers an encrypted connection and keeps you safe while you browse the web
  • Compatible with multiple platforms
  • Helps unblock geo-blocked websites and content
  • P2P friendly
  • Comes with additional security features like NAT firewalls, DNS leak protection, and private DNS
  • Most VPNs don’t log users’ data. (Make sure you choose a reliable VPN service to enjoy these benefits.)

Cons of VPN

  • Can slow down your internet connection
  • VPNs are not considered legal in some countries
  • Free VPNs may not be trustworthy so if you want quality, you need to go for a paid VPN service (Here’s a list of VPNs that offer a great service at an unbeatable price.)

Which One Is Right for You? Proxy Vs VPN

Security is the need of the hour. Both proxies and VPNs work similarly when it comes to masking your IP address and adding an additional layer of security. But before choosing between the two, you need to make sure you are choosing the right service that will secure your personal data.

A VPN will be an ideal choice if you are looking to secure your data. VPNs allow you to connect to servers in different locations so that you can access geo-restricted content. If you ask us, we would suggest using a VPN. When you use a VPN, you will receive similar benefits that a proxy offers but a VPN can encrypt your data and offer a higher level of security and protection.

You can go for a proxy when you wish to bypass geo-restrictions or access a website that is blocked. It can be used as a quick one-time solution. It may not be a good idea to use a proxy when you transfer sensitive personal information. So a VPN is recommended for those whose top priority is their security and online privacy.

Conclusion

A VPN and a proxy mask your IP address by rerouting your traffic through one of their servers. But both are not the same as many think and there are many differences between the two. VPNs best suit those who prioritize their online privacy and security. There are many VPNs and proxies that log users’ data. It is important to be aware of such services and go for a reliable one that will truly make you anonymous online.