VPN vs Proxy Servers
Learn the key differences between VPNs and proxies, when to use each, and why VPNs offer superior protection.
What is a Proxy Server?
A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet. Like a VPN, it routes your traffic through a server, hiding your IP address from websites. However, proxies typically don't encrypt your traffic, meaning your ISP and anyone monitoring your network can still see what you're doing. Proxies are often used for bypassing geographic restrictions but provide minimal privacy protection.
Key Differences
The fundamental difference between VPNs and proxies is encryption. VPNs encrypt all traffic between your device and the VPN server, while most proxies send unencrypted traffic. VPNs work at the system level, protecting all apps and services, while proxies typically work only in specific applications (like web browsers). VPNs provide comprehensive security; proxies mainly offer IP address masking.
When to Use Each
Use VPNs when privacy and security matter—protecting sensitive data, securing public WiFi, hiding activity from ISPs, or accessing restricted content safely. Proxies can be useful for simple tasks like bypassing basic geographic blocks, testing website access from different locations, or quick IP changes when security isn't critical. For any serious privacy needs, VPNs are superior.
How It Works
Both route your traffic through an intermediary server
VPNs encrypt traffic before sending it; proxies typically don't
Websites see the VPN/proxy server's IP instead of yours
VPNs protect all traffic; proxies usually only work in specific apps
Key Benefits
- Both hide your IP address from websites you visit
- Both can bypass basic geographic restrictions
- Proxies are often free and require no app installation
- VPNs provide encryption and comprehensive protection
- VPNs secure all device traffic, not just browsers
Common Myths Debunked
Proxies are just as good as VPNs for privacy
Proxies don't encrypt your traffic, so your ISP, network admins, and anyone monitoring can see your activity. VPNs provide encryption that protects your data and privacy.
Free proxies are safe to use
Free proxies are often operated by unknown entities and may log your data, inject ads, or even steal credentials. Many are honeypots for collecting user information.
VPNs are slower than proxies
While proxies may seem faster due to lack of encryption overhead, quality VPNs like EdgeVPN using WireGuard protocol have minimal speed impact and offer vastly superior security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about vpn vs proxy servers
Slightly, but not much. Proxies hide your IP from websites but don't protect you from ISP monitoring, network surveillance, or data interception. For real protection, use a VPN.
Technically yes, though it's rarely necessary. This setup (VPN → Proxy) adds complexity without significant security benefits for most users. VPN protection alone is comprehensive.
SOCKS proxies are more versatile and can handle various types of traffic, while HTTP proxies only work with web traffic. However, neither encrypts traffic like a VPN does.
Yes, streaming services actively block both proxies and VPNs. However, quality VPNs are more successful at maintaining access because they regularly update their server IPs and use residential IP addresses.
Proxies might be useful for quick, non-sensitive tasks like checking how a website appears from another location. For anything involving privacy, security, or sensitive data, always use a VPN.
Start Protecting Your Privacy
Now that you understand vpn vs proxy servers, experience the EdgeVPN difference.
No credit card required
Free version available