Proxy vs VPN: What Are The Differences?

Worried about safeguarding your online privacy? You have probably thought about using either a proxy or a VPN. Both tools provide a layer of protection for your internet connection, but how do they actually work, and what sets them apart? 

If you are seeking to boost your privacy on the internet, it is essential to know the main differences between proxy and VPN services to ensure you pick the right one for your needs. Read on to learn more:

Proxy vs VPN Defined

A proxy and a VPN both conceal your original IP address by sending your online data through a remote server in the country of your choice. However, that is as far as their similarities go.

While a proxy operates at the application level and reroutes the traffic of a single app or service, a VPN works at the system level and redirects all internet traffic through an encrypted connection for extra privacy and security. 

In short, a proxy suffices for basic web browsing needs, but it cannot match the robust protection and capabilities of a VPN, which often includes advanced features like a kill switch and obfuscation. 

What is a Proxy? How does it work?

Proxy servers serve as intermediaries between the website you are accessing and your device. Instead of a direct connection, your data passes through a remote server that connects you to the host server. 

This allows the web proxy server to mask your real IP address, presenting the IP of the proxy server (sometimes the IP addresses of other proxy users are used for this purpose) to the website.

A proxy only works with a specific app or service, and it does not secure your data using encryption. There are many types of proxies, and we have highlighted the most common ones below:

• HTTP Proxy: A HTTP proxy, also referred to as a web proxy, is specialized for handling web traffic. It functions by redirecting your web browser’s requests through a proxy server. HTTP proxies are particularly useful for enhancing your privacy while browsing. However, their capabilities are limited to managing HTTP and HTTPS traffic exclusively. 

• Transparent Proxy: A transparent proxy is primarily used for content caching and filtering purposes. Unlike other proxies, it does not alter requests or responses. Transparent proxies are often implemented by network administrators to improve performance and monitor internet usage. They are “transparent” because users are usually unaware of their presence, as they do not require manual configuration.

• SOCKS5 Proxy: A SOCKS5 proxy can handle various types of internet traffic (like email, gaming, etc.) beyond web browsing. Since the data being transmitted does not get modified, it is suitable for a wider range of applications. SOCKS5 proxies are typically slower than HTTP proxies due to their popularity and ability to handle diverse traffic types.

• Residential Proxy: A residential proxy uses IP addresses assigned by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to residential devices to mimic the behavior of real users and make it harder to detect. Residential proxies are often used for web scraping, social media management, and accessing geo-restricted content. They are valuable for tasks that require a high level of anonymity and mimic human behavior. 

What is a VPN? How does it work?

Much like a proxy, a VPN reroutes your online data through a remote server, concealing your IP address to prevent websites from identifying your original location. However, a key difference is that all of your internet traffic, regardless of whether it originates from your browser or background apps, is redirected through a VPN.

A VPN client also adds an extra layer of security by encrypting the data transmitted between the internet and your device. In this way, your online activities are rendered indecipherable to your ISP, shielding your actions from their monitoring. You also stay safe against governmental surveillance, website tracking, and interception attempts by hackers.

High-quality VPN providers like PureVPN are dedicated to safeguarding your personal data and elevating your online security. It has more than 6,500+ servers across 70 countries and offers fast speeds and cutting-edge features for its users. If you want to protect your online traffic and keep bad actors at bay, give our easy-to-use apps a try.

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The Differences Between Proxy and VPN Services

Here are some major differences between proxies and VPNs: 

Encryption and Security

VPNs encrypt your data, shielding you from ISP tracking, government surveillance, and cyber threats. Proxies lack this security, making them unsuitable for sensitive information.

Traffic Rerouting

VPNs route all traffic through a server at the operating system level. In contrast, proxies typically reroute only specific app or browser traffic at the application level.

Speed Considerations

Due to encryption, VPNs can be slower than proxies. Yet, strategies exist to enhance browsing speed and overall connection quality.

Cost and Trustworthiness

Most VPNs are paid services, avoiding the limitations and data-mining risks associated with free VPNs. Many proxies are free but may come with security compromises.

Related Read: Paid VPN vs Free VPN

Connection Reliability

VPN connections are generally more reliable than proxy connections, which can drop more frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a VPN better than a proxy?

Absolutely, a VPN offers a higher level of security and privacy by channeling your data through a secure server while encrypting it. On the other hand, a proxy merely redirects your traffic through an intermediary server without adding significant protection. 

Is a proxy slower than a VPN?

No, a proxy is typically faster than a VPN. Since a proxy only reroutes the traffic of a specific app or browser, it does not involve the encryption process that can slow down the connection. However, the speed difference can vary depending on the specific proxy or VPN service and its configuration.

Are proxy servers safe?

Proxy servers themselves are not inherently unsafe, but their safety depends on factors like the type of proxy, its configuration, and the intentions of its operator. Public proxies, for example, can be risky as they might log your data or expose you to malicious activity. On the other hand, reputable and well-configured proxies can provide a certain level of anonymity and privacy. However, if security is a top concern, using a VPN is generally a more secure option.

Can I use a VPN and proxy together?

Yes, you can use a VPN and proxy at the same time. However, it is not recommended due to potential complications and reduced performance. When you stack a VPN on top of a proxy, you add an extra layer of complexity that can lead to connection issues, slower speeds, and compatibility problems.

Does a proxy hide DNS?

A proxy does not hide your DNS requests. When you use a proxy, your DNS queries are still visible to your ISP and other third parties. On the other hand, a VPN encrypts your entire internet connection, including DNS requests, effectively hiding them from ISPs and preserving your online privacy. 

Final Word

VPNs and proxies both reroute traffic through remote servers to conceal your IP address. However, when it comes to privacy and security, a VPN outperforms a proxy. If protecting your online presence matters, the better option is undoubtedly a VPN like PureVPN.