Imagine that you need to visit a certain website, but instead, your friend goes there to deliver your message and bring back the response. This is a simple way to explain what a proxy is. A proxy (or proxy server) is an intermediary between you and the internet. You send a request to it, and it contacts the website and returns the information to you.
What does the word proxy mean? It comes from the English word “proxy,” which can be translated as “trusted person” or “representative.” In the world of technology, the meaning of the word “proxy” is that this server provides you with greater security and privacy. It can hide your real IP address from the websites you visit, protect against various attacks, and help bypass geographical restrictions.
With the emergence of proxies, we have become more aware of how important security is on the internet. Thanks to proxy servers, we can protect our data, avoid unwanted advertising, or even discover content that is not available in our country. Thus, a proxy is not just a technical tool, but a real shield for internet users.
Meanwhile, a VPN (short for Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the VPN server through which you access the internet.
What is the difference between a proxy and a VPN?
The main difference between a proxy and a VPN lies in the level of protection and scope.
A proxy is an intermediary that operates at the level of a single application, such as a browser. It hides your IP address but does not encrypt data. This means that your internet service provider or a malicious actor can see what you are doing, even if you are using a proxy.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network), unlike a proxy, creates a secure, encrypted connection between you and the internet. It operates at the system level: all applications — browsers, messengers, downloads — route traffic through the VPN. This provides a higher level of privacy and security.
In simpler terms, a proxy is like replacing your IP address, while a VPN is like hiding in a secure tunnel.
