VPN vs. Proxy: What's the difference?

Both VPNs and Proxies make it look like you are browsing from a different location.

Proxy

A Proxy acts like a Gateway for a specific application (usually just your web browser).

• Scope: Application level. If you set a proxy in Chrome, your Spotify app is not hidden.
• Encryption: Usually none. Your ISP can still see what you are doing, just not the final destination IP.
• Speed: Fast.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN creates a secure Tunnel for your entire operating system.

• Scope: System level. Chrome, Spotify, Windows Update, and Games all go through the tunnel.
• Encryption: High. Your ISP sees nothing but garbage data going to the VPN server.
• Speed: Slower (due to encryption overhead).

Which to use?

• To bypass a simple website region block: Proxy.
• To protect your privacy on public Wi-Fi: VPN.