In this day and age, using a cybersecurity tool is vital for online protection. However, among these issues, are other aspects like bypassing geo-blocks to access geo-restricted streaming services, websites or even changing your IP address to dodge internet surveillance bodies.
To attend or take care of these issues, users turn to either VPN services or use a proxy. However, most users are often confused about what works best. There are both paid and free VPN services and proxies, and regardless of that, the end result depends on what’s more reliable.
I’ll be breaking the two down so that you can settle for the best.
What’s a proxy?
A proxy is acts like a simpler version of a firewall, blocking off malicious websites and allows you to access restricted streaming services or websites by providing you with proxy servers to connect to. No, it’s not like a VPN, but we’ll get to that part in a bit. A proxy only allows you to access platforms, however, that’s just about it!
So, a proxy or a VPN?
Definitely a VPN! A VPN allows offers you several IP addresses to connect to, allowing you to access a surplus geo-restricted streaming services and websites from anywhere in the world. The additional perk is, the VPN comes with solid encryption standards, protecting the user from data leaks, ISP, website and government surveillance.
Additionally, a VPN also offers SmartDNS proxies. So, why invest in just a proxy when you can get a VPN that offers all. In comparison to performance, a VPN isn’t even as expensive as a proxy. There are many top VPN services that offer the best VPN deals and discounts that can save you a lot of money.
How do you choose the best VPN service?
Now that we’ve established what’s better, between a VPN and a proxy, let’s talk about how we can choose the best one:
· Look for military-grade encryption, and other advanced features that’ll show how secure the software is. Look for additional advanced features like a Kill Switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, GPS spoofing and more.
· The logging policies of a VPN are extremely crucial. It’s to prove whether the VPN is reliable and trustworthy or not. A VPN provider might say that they’re 100% a no logs provider, but never take their word for it until you read the entire policy.
· The VPN you choose should be headquartered in a privacy-friendly region. This is especially important in case you’re living in a country within the 14-eyes alliance or another country that imposes heavy surveillance laws.
· A VPN software should offer a large network coverage allowing you to mask and change your IP address. This is something you won’t find while using a proxy. A VPN should be able to let you access numerous streaming services, blocked or restricted websites and download apps safely from anywhere in the world.
· A free trial and refund policy is crucial, which a proxy doesn’t offer. You need to be able to test the VPN out. The refund is an additional perk, allowing a longer testing period. If you’re going for a refund then choose the most affordable VPN package. There are top providers that are still offering their Black Friday VPN deals.
