Proxy vs VPN: Understand the Differences Before You Choose

Protecting online privacy is why you need tools like proxies and VPNs. Using these tools, you browse the Internet safely and anonymously. To explain it further, nobody can trace your identity if you have a proxy or VPN.

Despite their similar functions, proxy and VPN are not the same. We mean that they are different tools designed to serve various purposes that internet users need.

Now, the question is how proxies and VPNs are different? Well, you use a proxy as a getaway to the Internet, while a VPN directs traffic through an encrypted tunnel, allowing you to browse the Internet safely. To make the differences clear, we have prepared a guide for you.

Proxy Server

Serving as a getaway between users and the Internet is what a proxy server does. Also known as an intermediary server, using a proxy server makes it appear that the activities occur in a location different from yours. This is possible because a proxy server has an IP (internet protocol). In addition to that, it has web filters and firewalls. This helps you to secure your devices so no cyber threats touch them.

Talking about proxy servers it has the following types available:

• Transparent Proxy

A transparent proxy forwards your internet requests to websites and hides your IP address or identity. However, it is worth mentioning that a transparent proxy doesn’t offer privacy like other proxy servers do. That’s because users and websites can detect its presence. This proxy type is commonly used in schools, offices, or public networks, where you can use it to monitor internet activity or block access to certain sites.

• Forward Proxy

Acting as a gateway between a user and the Internet, forward proxy routes requests on behalf of the user to the target websites. This type of proxy can bypass geographical restrictions or filter web content. Individuals and businesses use forward proxies to access restricted content or control websites that are accessible within a network.

• Anonymous Proxy

You hide your IP address using an anonymous proxy so websites cannot trace it. These proxies are a popular choice for individual users seeking a certain degree of anonymity while browsing the Internet as they give a moderate level of privacy but remember; your presence is still detectable. 

• High Anonymity Proxy

A high anonymity proxy is the best choice if you are concerned about your privacy being compromised. This proxy ensures that your IP address is hidden and undetectable, so you can stay stress-free. This makes high anonymity proxies ideal for users who seek maximum privacy or perform sensitive activities online.

• Data Centre Proxy

Data centre proxies are hosted in large-scale data centres and are not tied to any ISP (internet service provider). They are affordable and great for tasks like web scraping, automation, or bypassing restrictions, making them a preferred choice. However, detecting these proxies is easy. That’s because they are not linked to residential networks.

• Distorting Proxy

Providing fake IP addresses is what a distorting proxy does. In other words, a distorting proxy acts as a proxy, so websites cannot trace the original IP address. As a result, you can easily access content in specific regions or bypass geographical restrictions.

• Residential Proxy

Using real IP addresses from residential networks, residential proxies make them appear genuine users. The residential proxy gives you the liberty to enjoy high along with using various activities like ad verification, market research, or web scraping. The best part of this proxy is that it mimics real users, so getting blocked or flagged by websites doesn’t stand a chance.

• Shared Proxy

Used by multiple users simultaneously, a shared proxy is a good choice as it is extremely easy to use and is easy on your pocket. However, it is only suitable for light internet usage, not for tasks that require high privacy or speed.

• Public Proxy

Everyone prefers public proxies because they are free and easy to use. These proxies offer basic anonymity and are open to everyone. However, be careful while using them. These public proxies are not as secure as other proxies, making them somewhat vulnerable. 

• SSL Proxy

When looking to establish secure communication, opt for a secure Sockets Layer (SSL) proxy, which encrypts the data between the user and the website. SSL proxy is used when anyone intends to protect sensitive information like login credentials or financial data so nobody can access it but only you. A reliable choice, SSL Proxy is good for users who prioritize security.

VPN

A VPN (virtual private network) is the best choice to ensure maximum efficiency, security, and online privacy. It creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the Internet so you can access online websites without worries. From browsing to streaming and sending emails, your online activities are safe. Plus, it allows you to access restricted content in your region.

Two types of VPNs include the following:

• Individual VPN

Individual VPNs are meant for personal use. They help you protect your online privacy, secure data, and access restricted content, ensuring your online activities stay private.

• Corporate VPN

Corporate VPN is precisely designed for businesses and organizations. It is commonly used to safely connect to the company’s internal network and ensure that sensitive business data is safe from unauthorized access.

Differences Of Proxy vs VPN 

After covering the basics, let’s give you an overview of the differences between a proxy and a VPN.

Security 

A proxy server can hide your online identity, but it does not encrypt your connection like a VPN, which makes a VPN a better solution, especially when it comes to protecting your online activities.

Speed 

Since many users use a single proxy server, delays are common. However, avoiding this problem is possible, especially using a reliable VPN. When choosing a VPN, you should check maintenance protocols and technology.

Privacy

Good for hiding IP addresses, a proxy server doesn’t protect the data you receive and send. But a VPN does both and also mask your location. This gives you more privacy with a VPN.

FAQs about Proxy vs VPN

• Why VPN is better than a proxy server?

Unlike a proxy server, a VPN encrypts traffic, making it an ideal solution.

• Should you use a proxy server with a VPN?

When using a VPN, using a proxy server is not needed.

• Can you access a VPN on any device?

Indeed, you can access VPNs on all devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.

• What is a VPN used for?

Using a VPN helps you to hide your IP address, access restricted sites, data encryption, and enhanced privacy.