In 2024, protecting your data online has become a must rather than an option. Especially with the rise of cybersecurity crimes and data breaches, the issue of privacy is paramount.
Generally, there are many ways of enhancing online security. For instance, it could be a free VPN for PC or other standout tool – proxies.
In this article, we will look closely at the VPN and Proxy, compare them, and highlight the key differences. So, are you ready for it?
What Are Proxies?
First, let’s start with definitions. A proxy server is an intermediary between the device and the internet, which usually requests resources on the user’s behalf. In fact, it is known for hiding the IP address from websites, advertisers, and even potential scammers.
Beyond these anonymity features, proxies allow users to bypass any geographical restrictions. Thus, people can have access to content that might be blocked in one or another region.
What are VPNs?
Now, it’s time to dig deeper into the topic of virtual private networks (VPNs). So, a VPN acts as an extender of a private network across a public one. That is why when people use a VPN, all their internet traffic is routed through a remote server.
In a nutshell, VPNs serve two essential purposes: encryption and IP address concealment. As for encryption, VPNs encrypt users’ data, making it secure and unreadable to anyone intercepting it. When it comes to the IP address concern, a VPN hides the person’s IP address from ISPs, hackers, and even surveillance agencies.
How do VPNs Differ from Proxies?
To have a clear understanding how VPNs are different from proxies, let’s take a closer look and compare these two technologies based on the routing traffic, security and encryption as well as use cases.
Routing Traffic
As for routing traffic, VPNs route all internet traffic for the entire operating system, meaning that every app on the device is protected. For instance, when you use the best VPN for torrenting, not only is your torrenting traffic encrypted and protected, but all of your internet traffic is secured as well.
At the same time, proxies only selectively redirect only specific application traffic. In a sense, they act as getaways for individual applications, including web browsers and torrent clients
Security and Encryption
In terms of security, VPNs are more robust by default. This is due to their ability to mask the IP address and encrypt all data between the device and the VPN service. In other words, VPNs allow online users to keep their activity private and, most importantly, secure.
With proxies, however, it is a different story. While some proxies, such as SSL and HTTPS, encrypt user traffic, many others, including HTTP proxies, do not do that. So, non-encrypted proxies are less safe as they do not offer the same level of protection as VPNs.
Use Cases
Now, to the fun part – the actual use cases of VPNs and proxies!
As for VPNs, this is an excellent tool for those who prioritize comprehensive security and privacy. Plus, they are suitable for various activities, from banking to accessing sensitive information and protection against cyber crimes.
Proxies are your go-to when you seek anonymous web browsing and face geographical restrictions. Many individuals use proxies primarily to access region-specific content or bypass website blocks.
Both proxies and VPNs are great tools to keep your online activities private. Online users can use these tools separately or combined to meet their needs. So, use VPNs to route all internet traffic at the operating system level, with strong encryption, security, and privacy. And utilize the power of proxies to selectively reroute specific application traffic, anonymous browsing, and geo-unblocking.
The most important thing is to use these tools to stay protected online in the ever-evolving digital world. Start prioritizing your online privacy already today!
