Today, our topic of discussion is proxy vs VPN!
Okay! Are you worried about your privacy while surfing the internet?
Well, you can always use different types of cyber-security options like proxy services or VPN services, to keep your browsing history and connection private.
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Out of all the cyber-security options, choosing the right choice is very important. People mostly go for a proxy service or a VPN.
Also read: Know About Private and Shared Proxies
Some people who aren’t so tech-savvy often use these two terms interchangeably.
Let’s clear one thing first; Proxy and VPN (Virtual Private Network) are NOT the same. Even though their core function is the same that is to protect yourself from cybercrime and to help save your digital identity, still there is a vast difference between these two services.
Proxy vs VPN is one of the most trending topics. Some people are hardcore proxy users, while others find VPN more suitable.
In the lifelong battle between Proxy vs VPN, people always support the VPN because it is superior and more functional than Proxy.
But not all the best things are flawless. In fact, VPN has many flaws. There are some aspects where Proxy easily beats the VPN.
So in this article, we are going to break the cliché cycle and go with a Proxy instead of a VPN.
Here, we will give you five reasons why proxy services are better than VPN services.
But before that, we must understand both of these terms.
So let’s start with that.
Proxy vs VPN
What is a Proxy Server?
A proxy server is like a middleman or security gate. It acts as a middleman between you and the server. When you access the internet from your PC or laptop, a proxy server acts as a proxy between you and the server to protect your device.
Now your device will first connect to the proxy server. This way, when you visit any site, your device will use a host server to reach the site.
Because of this, your identity will be hidden. Your original IP address will be hidden; instead, the proxy server’s IP address will be visible.
Nobody can track your IP address or your location.
Isn’t that cool?? It’s like using Harry Potter’s Invisible Cloak to reach a different location without being seen.
The two main common types of proxies used are HTTPS proxy and Socks5 proxy. You can also choose a shared proxy.
What is a VPN (Virtual Private Network)?
A VPN functions as a proxy, but instead of a gateway, it creates a secure tunnel.
It creates a safe and secure passageway between you and the internet. It works with every website, app, or anything you do on the internet.
Every request you initiate from your end goes through this secure passageway and gets encrypted.
It not only hides your IP address but protects your privacy and security as well.
Before you do anything on the internet, you have to log in to a VPN and then continue using it. After you log in, it will stay in place till you log out.
Most people use both Proxy as well as VPN to enhance security.
Also read: How to change firefox proxy settings?
5 Reasons to Choose Proxy over VPN Services
Now that we know exactly what Proxy and VPN services are, it’s time to learn which one is better.
By the looks of it, you might think VPN is superior to Proxy. But wait till you find about the drawbacks of a VPN.
Here, I will show you Why Proxy Services are better than VPN Services?
So let’s start the age-old war again.
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Speed
This fact might surprise you. A VPN is generally known for speed, but it can face serious issues. As a VPN reroutes your internet connection to encrypt the data, it may affect the speed, especially if you are using a free VPN.
You will face problems with internet speed while gaming. It will lag if you are not using a paid or trusted VPN. Instead, you can go with Socks5 Proxy. It is faster and better than a free VPN.
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Restrictions
Some services do not support VPN. People use VPN to access websites or apps which are restricted. Popular streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu have already blocked accessing their websites through a VPN.
In this case, you can go with a Proxy server. It is an alternative to VPN. Where VPN doesn’t work, you can go with the Proxy server to access the sites. You can access by an affordable dedicated Proxy to stream such sites without any hassle.
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Illegal usage and Encryption Issues
VPNs are legal in most countries, but there are some countries where it is illegal to use a VPN. Countries like Russia and China are strict on privacy issues.
You can get into serious trouble for using VPN. So to stay safe, you can use proxy services. If you have the right knowledge, you will easily be able to use Proxy Services in such countries.
You might also face encryption issues in a VPN. You cannot measure the quality of encryption they provide to you.
Some VPN providers might fool you and provide no encryption or weak encryption.
Instead of wasting your time on a VPN, you can go with Proxy Server. They are clear about what they do. You can save your money and use this server to hide your IP.
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Price
Price is another factor where Proxy beats VPN. As we know, a quality VPN can be very expensive. Most people use a free VPN, but it is actually worse than using nothing at all.
Instead, you can use a dedicated proxy service at a very affordable price. It is paid but yet affordable if we talk about proxy vs VPN.
It is not as costly as a private VPN. If you have budget problems but want to hide your IP address, a proxy server is your best bet.
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Personal Data Breach
When you use a free VPN, you are risking your security. Most free VPN providers try to log into your browsing history to check what you are doing. You have to be really careful there.
They might use your information and sell it to others. If you want to avoid this problem, you can go with a Proxy server.
A dedicated proxy server is safer than a free VPN.
They follow a proper privacy policy to protect your data.
These are the five reasons why Proxy Services are better than VPN services. Yes, VPN provides high security, but it is vulnerable too. What are your thoughts on this? Please comment!