In this digital age, keeping our devices secure is vital. We use our devices for communication, entertainment, work, and almost all digital tasks. And at no cost can we afford to let our crucial data fall into the hands of bad actors on the internet.

But how do we ensure that no bad actors or websites get access to our data?

For that, using proxy servers or VPNs helps to keep your devices and data secure. Since both these tools have the same basic functions, they’re often confused. The major difference between the two is that one of these tools is focused on protecting your privacy, which the other isn’t. How? Let’s explore the difference between these two tools:

What is a Proxy Server?

When browsing the web, no additional server exists between our device and host websites. Devices can send or receive data directly from websites via the internet. Alternatively, when connected to a proxy server, data may first be routed through the proxy before reaching the host website or returning to the devices.

A proxy server alters our IP address and assigns it a new one. Since our device’s IP address is switched to another one in a different location, our identities may stay hidden from the websites.

That being said, a proxy server does not encrypt our data in any way. As I said above, it only masks our IP address and helps us hide our identity from the websites. Also, a proxy server may not work for all the applications simultaneously. You may need to enable it every time on an app where you want to keep your identity secure.

Pros and Cons of Using a Proxy Server

What is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

A VPN is similar to a proxy server in masking a user’s IP address. However, unlike a proxy server, a VPN may also encrypt the user’s data through a safe tunnel between the user and the VPN server. All the incoming and outgoing data is first routed through the VPN’s tunnel, which is then sent to the host website or user’s end.

While proxy servers may only mask our IP address for a single app, VPNs alter our IP address and encrypt the internet data on all applications on our devices simultaneously.

Pros and Cons of Using a VPN

Key Similarities Between Proxy Servers and VPN

A major similarity between proxy servers and VPNs is the anonymity they offer. Our devices’ IP addresses change as soon as we connect to a proxy server or a VPN. With a different IP address, a proxy server or VPN helps us stay anonymous and, at the same time, helps us access the geo-restricted content on the internet.

In addition, proxy and VPN add an extra server to our network. And all our devices’ incoming and outgoing data first goes through those servers.

Key Differences Between Proxy Server and VPN

One of the noticeable differences between a proxy server and a VPN is the data encryption. Both VPNs and proxy servers can change your IP address. VPNs typically create a secure tunnel that may encrypt your data, potentially adding a layer of security between your devices and the Internet. In contrast, proxy servers generally focus on masking your identity online.

Also, proxy servers may not be configured with multiple apps simultaneously. For instance, if you’ve enabled a proxy on the browser, it may not hide your identity on social media apps, and you might need to configure a proxy for other platforms separately. 

Enabling a VPN on your device may encrypt data from all apps, including your browser, and route incoming and outgoing data through a secure tunnel.

Bonus Section: Is VPN Better Than a Proxy Server?

Both VPNs and proxy servers can mask your IP address. VPNs may offer data encryption through a secure tunnel, potentially providing an additional layer of security for your device and data. Additionally, it’s important to consider that some free VPNs might not use strong encryption or robust security protocols.

Published by Elle G