VPN vs Proxy - what's the difference?

A proxy is a single server that may be used by many people at one time. This can result in delays in connection speed. A free proxy connection can prove even slower. VPN servers that are far from the user’s location can also result in a slower connection speed. However, if you use a VPN provider with the right technology and maintenance protocols, any delays will be unnoticeable.

What is a proxy server?

Usually, when web browsing, your computer connects to a website directly and begins downloading pages for you to read. This process is straightforward. However, when you use a proxy server, your computer sends all web traffic to the proxy first. The proxy forwards your request to the target website, downloads the information, and passes it back to you.

By masking IP addresses in this way, proxy servers allow users to bypass content restrictions and monitoring. For example, users can view geographically restricted content – such as a UK-based Netflix subscriber connecting to a US proxy server to access US Netflix content.

What is a VPN?

VPN stands for virtual private network. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel for your data, protects your online identity by hiding your IP address, and allows you to use public Wi-Fi hotspots safely. 

VPNs work on the operating system level. This means that they redirect all your traffic, whether coming from your browser or an app. They also encrypt traffic between the internet and your device. As a result, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can’t see what you’re doing online – just that you’re connected to a VPN server. This encryption also protects you from website tracking, government surveillance, and any hackers who might try to spy on your device.

What’s the difference between a proxy server and VPN?

• Security: The main difference between a VPN proxy and a VPN is encryption. VPNs hide not only your private IP address but all your web activity, such as the websites you visit, using encryption. Proxy servers, on the other hand, will only change your IP address, but they won’t encrypt your online activities.
• Selling data: Most proxy servers are free, and to make up for this lack of charge, many will sell user data to advertisers. Most VPNs on the other hand are paid and do not log or share user traffic data.
• Coverage: While VPNs encrypt all of a user’s web activity, no matter the website or app, proxy servers only hide one website or app at a time.
• Speed: A proxy is a single server that may be used by many people at one time. This can result in delays in connection speed. A free proxy connection can prove even slower. VPN servers that are far from the user’s location can also result in a slower connection speed. However, if you use a VPN provider with the right technology and maintenance protocols, any delays will be unnoticeable.