Sometimes, users need anonymity to access certain resources on the internet. For example, when downloading torrents or trying to visit a website restricted in their country—like Telegram being blocked in Russia—anonymizing tools help users hide their IP address and access the web securely. The two most common tools are VPN services and proxy servers. But what’s the real difference between a proxy and a VPN?

VPN vs. Proxy: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

To understand the difference, let’s look at how each technology works:

A proxy server acts as a gateway between your device and the internet. When using a proxy, your outgoing traffic is routed through a remote server, which assigns its own IP address to your connection. This remote server could be located anywhere in the world, and your real IP remains hidden from the websites you visit.

But what makes a VPN different? A Virtual Private Network encrypts all your internet traffic and creates a secure “tunnel” between your device and the VPN server. Not only does it hide your IP address like a proxy, but it also ensures that your entire browsing history and all transmitted data are fully encrypted. Your ISP will know you’re using a VPN, but nothing else about your online activities.

Now that the technical difference is clear, let’s compare the pros and cons of each solution:

Proxy Server Advantages:

• Masks your real IP address
• Lets you access geo-blocked websites
• Widely available, including many free public proxies
• Can improve connection speed and lower ping for specific use cases

Proxy Server Disadvantages:

• No traffic encryption—your data is not protected
• Free public proxies may be unreliable or even unsafe, as some are set up by hackers to steal user data
• For safe and stable operation, it's best to use paid, private proxies with support

VPN Advantages:

• Fully encrypted and private connection
• Hides your IP address from all websites and services

VPN Disadvantages:

• Free VPNs are typically very slow and may have strict limits
• Paid VPN services can be expensive for long-term use

Which should you choose? For most users, the decision comes down to cost and purpose. Paid VPNs offer maximum privacy, but are more expensive. Free VPNs are often too slow for regular use. Free proxy servers are unreliable and risky, while paid proxy servers provide an affordable, fast, and flexible solution for everyday anonymity needs.