VPNs and proxies are often recommended tools to hide information about our internet usage.
But do you know the differences between them?
Let's take a look at the differences between proxies and VPNs, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in terms of privacy and security.
What is a proxy?
A very simplified definition of a proxy would be that it is a system that acts as an intermediary between a computer and the Internet.
This means that the destination address doesn't know where the original connection came from.
When you connect through a proxy, your requests are first sent to the proxy, which then forwards them to the intended destination.
This can hide your true IP address and provide a degree of anonymity.
What is a VPN?
A VPN is a network technology that allows data to be sent and received over public networks privately and securely through a virtual connection and encryption of the transmitted data.
All network traffic is encrypted and sent through this virtual network, ensuring privacy and security. In addition to hiding your IP address, a VPN can also bypass geographic restrictions.
Main differences between proxies and VPNs
Privacy
VPNs provide a higher level of privacy than proxies, as they encrypt all network traffic. Proxies only hide your IP address, while VPNs protect all your data.
Security
VPNs are more secure than proxies because they use robust encryption protocols to protect data in transit.
Proxies typically do not offer encryption, making them more vulnerable to cyberattacks and the transmitted information is exposed.
Speed
VPNs can slow down your Internet connection due to the encryption process. Proxies are usually faster than VPNs, but offer less security.
Use cases for proxies and VPNs
Proxies
- Hide your IP address to browse the web anonymously.
- Bypass geographic restrictions to access blocked content.
- Improve web page loading speed by caching content.
VPN
- Protect your online privacy and security.
- Bypass geographic restrictions and access blocked content.
- Improve connection speed on congested networks.
- Access networks securely.
Security and privacy recommendations
- Always use a trusted VPN with well know encryption protocols.
- Avoid free proxies as they can be unreliable and compromise your privacy.
- Do not use proxies to connect to services that require identification, and do not provide personal information when using these types of connections.
VPN Recommendation
There are VPN providers that offer free services (Proton, TunnelBear, ...) with limited features or real privacy.
Recommended payment options are Mullvad or the cheaper XEOVO.
Summarized
VPNs are generally more secure and private than proxies, but can slow down your Internet connection.
Proxies are faster, but offer less security.
Understanding the differences between these tools will help you make an informed decision about which is the best option for your specific needs.