Proxies have become beneficial when bypassing geo-restrictions, managing multiple accounts, and preventing IP tracking. However, choosing an advanced proxy solution for secure and fast online access makes all the difference. Without these tools, you compromise your online security and risk IP bans and other limitations.
Choosing between the many proxy options available nowadays can get a tad overwhelming, though — especially if you’re new to the game. That’s why we’ve put together this quick guide for you. Read on!
Best Proxies to Improve Your Online Experience
Most reliable proxy providers offer various types of proxy solutions for secure and fast online access. Learning the main characteristics of each of them will help you understand which one suits your needs best. Let’s have a look at different proxy types:
HTTP Proxy
This type of proxy acts as an intermediary server on web traffic between a client and an HTTP server. In other words, when a client device sends a request to access a website or other web-based resource, it gets intercepted by an HTTP proxy server — which forwards it to the web server on behalf of the client. Once the request gets processed and a response is generated, the proxy server receives a response, forwarding it back to the HTTP client.
These proxies are simple to set up and also compatible with other web browsers. They can be used for online performance optimization, content filtering, and enhanced privacy. The downside is it doesn’t support all types of traffic. But it offers a fast, efficient, and secure online presence.
HTTPS Proxy
This works on a more secure version of HTTP as it encrypts all web traffic requested through the proxy server. It uses the HTTP protocol over the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).
Ideally, these proxies are safer and anonymous than HTTP proxies as they don’t transfer your data in plain-text format. However, because of its encryption component, an HTTPS proxy may be slightly slower than its counterparts. It also doesn’t work for non-web traffic. As a result, this proxy provides an advanced solution to protect sensitive data from interception.
SOCKS5 Proxy
This type uses Socket Secure (SOCKS) protocol to dictate how your web browser routes traffic through a proxy server. When the SOCKS5 proxy sends your connection to a web server, the receiving server will only see the proxy’s IP address.
By hiding your real address, proxy gives your web presence a layer of anonymity, enhanced security, and fast online access. Another thing is that this proxy is more flexible than HTTP/HTTPS proxies as it supports different web traffic. However, you may need additional configuration, which should not be an issue considering its security level.
SSH Proxy
Also known as Secure Shell, this type of proxy offers an advanced solution for securing internet traffic, especially when accessing geo-restricted websites and public WiFi networks. This remote login shell uses a protocol that connects the client’s computer through an encrypted connection. The SSH server can act as a SOCKS proxy server.
SSH proxies work on the application level. You need to configure it manually to protect your web traffic. Also, it has to be done on individual connections. Your web browser has to be configured with a SOCKS proxy on a local host port. So, with this proxy, your online connection is highly secured, and there will be no traffic interception.
Residential Proxy
Residential proxies use an IP address assigned by an ISP to a real internet user. This makes your online activity appear as if it comes from a residential user. They come in three types: static, rotating, and dedicated proxies. With dedicated residential ISP proxies, you can comfortably rely on them for web scraping, sneaker bots, and ad verification.
Datacenter Proxy
These proxies are hosted in data centers, so they are not tied to real ISPs. They are cheaper, secure, fast, and ideal for bypassing website restrictions and general browsing.
ISP Proxy
This is an advanced hybrid proxy that combines residential IPS with datacenter proxies speed. It uses an IP address from an internet service provider (ISP) and can easily bypass restrictions, CAPTCHAs, and IP bans.
Conclusion
With various proxy types available, users have the chance to choose a suitable proxy based on their needs. Understanding how each proxy works, the technology behind it, and how they can contribute to your success is essential. Though all these proxies enhance your online privacy, dedicated residential ISP proxies offer you more secure and fast online access.
