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

Should you use a proxy or a VPN?

When it comes to internet privacy and security, two terms are commonly tossed around: VPN and proxy. If you're wondering what exactly these words mean, or which one you need, if any, you aren't alone. While these services both provide something similar, it's important to know the differences and similarities so you can decide which one is best for you.

What is a VPN?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is best described as an encrypted virtual tunnel that shuttles your internet activity between a host server and your PC or phone. Anything you do on the internet, from checking your bank statements to gaming online, won't be seen by anyone but the VPN host server, thanks to the strong encryption. Keep in mind that if your VPN keeps logs, your activity could potentially be scooped up by interested parties (a.k.a. the government).

You can use a VPN to get around geo-restrictions because your IP address will be different, but a VPN does so much more when it comes to privacy. Public Wi-Fi, like the kind you find at hotels and airports, isn't always secure — people can snoop what you're doing if your data isn't encrypted. But it becomes secure when you're using a VPN.

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