Difference Between Using Proxies and VPN
A lot of people are asking the very reasonable question – what re the similarities and the differences between using proxies and a VPN provider when it comes to safety and protection when browsing the internet. Here in this post we will try to make things a bit more clear.
Although they perform a very similar function, the process involved, level of security, and internet speed are very different. To make it even more confusing, there are different types of proxies.
Proxy Servers
A proxy is technically known as an open proxy. It is a computer that acts in between you and your end content. Any traffic moving through this middle computer appears to come from the middle computer itself, not your computer. Unlike a VPN, proxy servers don’t have a lot of resources dedicated to them. They do not encrypt your data or personal information, they just send it as-is. Also…they are very busy. Thousands of connections will be made at once to thousands of end users. There are no dedicated resources.
Proxies use SOCKS or HTTP servers.
Http protocol is simple..it just interprets at the level of the internet address (http) and this is where it gets its name. It is only good for browsing web pages, because that is all it can handle. Don’t plan on watching a full length HD movie through a HTTP proxy server.
What is good about a http protocol?
Free or Cheap
Will get you past the basic checks (limited geo restrict content is available)
They are easy to find
What is bad about a http protocol?
Very limited accessibility of content
Even the most rudimentary security will catch you and figure out your location
Data is not encrypted
Personal information at risk
Your browser must be specifically enabled and configured for it to work OK .
What about SOCKS Proxy Servers? – SOCKS servers don’t bother interpreting network traffic. This means they are much more flexible. The SOCKS protocol if very popular for email traffic, some types of chat rooms, and is constantly being updated. There have been 5 generations of coding for SOCKS. However, speed is lost and you have to download software to make it work.
What is a VPN ?
Virtual Private Networks create an encrypted connection between your computer and your destination, with the internet traffic going in and out of the host server. Your internet service provider, government, hackers, sniffers, etc CAN ONLY SEE THE VPN! Not you! All of your data is highly encrypted…some services even used military grade encryption levels. They have no idea of your browsing preferences, history, personal information, credit card number, what you have downloaded, etc. This is all completely hidden and encrypted, and in some cases NOT EVEN LOGGED like is the case with ProXPN.
Yes, VPN services do typically involve downloading their software but this is the only ware to get the highest level of protection. Millions of users subscribe to and TRUST these services every day with their information.
Biggest Benefits of VPN:
Data encryption
Your personal information is safe
No logs of your browsing history
Lightning fast connection
Cons
More expensive than proxies
Can be a bit slow during peak times
If VPN provider keeps logs then these may be obtained by the authorities. The VPN we write most about here on this site is ProXPN and they do NOT keep any logs, so this is a huge benefit when it comes to choosing which company to be Your VPN service provider.
Do you now understand the Difference Between a Proxy and a VPN? It ain’t that hard or too “techie” IMHO.
Conclusion
VPN Services are the safest, most secure, and fastest way to hide and protect your personal information and access geo-restricted content. Proxies have some benefits, but the benefits of a VPN service FAR out way those of a proxy. Nothing is ever 100% secure, but I ALWAYS protect my and my clients information with a VPN service. Take advantage of the latest coupons for ProXPN, found on the home page.
Stay safe out there on the Internet guys, use a VPN!