If you use the internet regularly and store private data online, you probably have concerns about digital privacy. We’ve all heard stories about hackers, and the fear of our sensitive personal information being compromised is well-founded. VPN connections and Proxy servers will allow you to establish a secure connection to the internet, but which is the right option for you?
How do proxy servers work?
Once a proxy server is enabled, your PC directs web traffic to the proxy rather than managing it directly. The proxy requests the information and then forwards it back to your PC while keeping your IP address hidden. People use a proxy to browse anonymously, to view blocked websites and dodge restrictions on content. They can do this because requests for data appear to come from the proxy, rather than an individual’s computer. Proxy servers do not encrypt data, so users can still be vulnerable to hacking. Moreover, the proxy owner can view web traffic that passes through their server.
How are VPN connections different?
VPNs also connect your PC to a secondary server, but the key difference is that it also encrypts the traffic to and from your network. This includes the pages you browse and the information you send or are sent. As a result, anyone attempting to view what you are doing online will be thwarted. From hackers to law enforcement and private businesses, everything you do will remain off-limits as far as third parties are concerned.
In what additional ways do VPNs and Proxy servers differ?
VPNs offer a complete privacy package
As well as safeguarding your personal information and browsing history, the VPN provider will not store or track what you do online. Therefore, if you have concerns about sharing your financial details with stores, utility providers or casinos, a VPN is ideal. If you do enjoy a game, take a look at the Mobile Casino Service to find the most reliable mobile friendly casinos. As their reviews are regularly updated, you can quickly find slots, jackpots and bonuses that suit how you play.
Proxy connections are cheap but create lag
Using a free or cheap proxy service will save you money, but they often slow down browsing speeds. If you only want to occasionally conceal your IP address from a single site or an app, then a proxy will be perfectly adequate. VPNs tend to be a costlier option because the infrastructure is superior. This makes a VPN faster and more reliable over long periods of time and several websites. Paid VPN services that can be found at vpncheck.org give users access to a higher degree of security through advanced data encryption – they are a better choice if you want to lock down all your browsing activity.
Do I need both?
No, there’s no need for a proxy if you already have a VPN enabled. However, you may want to upgrade to a VPN if your proxy server is not offering the security or level of performance you require.