How to understand what do you need Proxy or VPN?

The use of virtual private networks (VPNs) and proxy servers is a form of privacy protection when accessing content on the Internet. Both services perform the same job providing a connection between a computer and a remote server, while maintaining the anonymity of their users. However, each of them uses its own method of disguise.

How does a virtual private network work?

When using this service data is pre-encrypted. After that, they are transferred to the provider, and then to the VPN server, which connects to the network on behalf of the user. As a result, the destination site identifies the VPN server as the source of traffic. This does not allow the provider to track Internet activity, as well as collect data about users. The only information visible to them is the fact of connecting to the VPN server — nothing else.

You can connect a Virtual Private Network using the browser-integrated extension or using software. Using the application is a guarantee of higher security and privacy. However, be aware that some VPN providers store information about IP addresses, DNS queries, and other information. In order to keep the activity on the Internet really closed, you need to choose a reliable service that does not register usage data.

Proxy servers

Proxy is an intermediate that is located between the user's device and the remote server to which the request is made. Usually, proxies can hide the client’s IP address and use an anonymous network identifier to connect to the network. They do not encrypt data transmitted over the Internet. Since this provides little security, anyone can access traffic that goes through the connection.

The most common types of proxies available:

• HTTP and HTTPS proxies are intended for browsing http: // or https: // web pages. They are useful for surfing the web, downloading files, accessing blocked sites and must be configured separately for each browser.

• SOCKS Proxy Servers are much more versatile. They support the HTTP, HTTPS, FTP protocols, but they usually work slower since they are more popular and often have a higher load.

Both the virtual private network and the proxy server allow the user to access the desired destination on the Internet, hiding the valid IP address and their location. However, the common features of the two services end there.

The main difference is the use of encryption technology by a virtual private network, which allows you to send all traffic over a secure connection to a VPN server.