VPN vs VPS: Do You Need a Virtual Private Network or a Virtual Private Server

by · April 21, 2024

VPN vs VPS – People are commonly confused between VPS and VPN because they seem like same, while they don’t have anything in common. VPS stands for Virtual Private Server, whereas VPN stands for Virtual Private Network.

Although both virtual and private, they are used for different purposes. Nevertheless, with the help of some tools and a little knowledge about how these two works, you can use them as the same service.

If you are new to the virtual world and want to know more about these two terms’ operations, we’ll explain it all in this article about VPS vs VPN and what are these, how they are different or similar, and how you can benefit from them.

What Is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

VPN function shown by routing encrypted data from a device through a VPN client and server to the internet, compared to a direct connection.

A VPN (virtual private network) establishes a secure and encrypted link, protecting data as it travels between devices across the internet. This secure channel acts as a shield for sensitive data against possible risks and breaches. VPNs are essential for providing protected remote connections to company assets, maintaining the privacy and protection of data.

A VPN establishes an encrypted pathway known as a tunnel through which a device’s data is securely transmitted. When connected to a VPN, a device behaves as if it’s on the same local network as the VPN, allowing for safe data exchange. The VPN provides a protected conduit for data to travel, offering remote internet users a secure means to connect to a corporate network and conduct online activity. Corporate VPNs are commonly used within remote home offices or even on public Wi-Fi.

With a VPN, information traverses the web within a protected tunneling framework, shielded through encryption to block unauthorized entry. VPNs use predominant encryption standards such as Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) to secure data. Encryption converts the data into a secure code decipherable only with a specific key. The data is then encapsulated with destination information, and upon verification of the user, access is granted, with the system monitoring the session’s activities.

What Is a Virtual Private Server (VPS)?

A central server linked to multiple computers, symbolizing a VPS hosting separate, virtualized environments for users.

A VPS (Virtual Private Server) is a virtual machine that is used to host websites and applications. It is typically used by businesses or individuals who need more control and flexibility than they would have with a shared hosting plan, but who do not want to invest in a dedicated server. With a VPS, you get your own virtualized operating system, which means you can install any software you need and customize the server to your liking.

VPS hosting is generally more expensive than shared hosting, but it offers better performance and more resources. Some benefits of using a VPS include:

  • Increased control: With a VPS, you have your own virtualized operating system, which means you can install any software you need and customize the server to your liking.
  • Better performance: VPS generally offers better speed and reliability than shared hosting, as you have your own dedicated resources.
  • Scalability: VPS allows you to easily scale your resources up or down as needed, depending on your website or application’s needs.

 

VPN vs VPS – Significant Differences

VPS VPN
Hosts your sites and applications. Keeps your information private and secure and
changes how your web traffic travels.
Widely used in businesses. Individuals and businesses use it.
Hosted sites or applications can be vulnerable. Mainly focused and designed around its
security features.
Can’t change the apparent location of the
web traffic.		 It enables you to pass through geo-blocking.
Requires good knowledge of servers. A very affordable method or service with
anonymity for your web journey.

VPN vs VPS: The Differences

Both VPSs and VPNs involve servers and use virtual technology, but that’s where the similarities between the two ends:

  • A VPS is particularly useful to businesses as it offers powerful and cost-effective hosting for websites, applications, and more.
  • A VPN can help both businesses and individuals switch their virtual location and increase their privacy.
  • Unlike VPSs, VPNs don’t host applications or websites – they safeguard your data, mask your real identity, among other things!
  • VPSs mainly offer server hosting and not security. This means that data, apps, and websites hosted on these servers can be vulnerable to government spying or breaches.
  • A VPN is used by millions of people to increase their security and privacy. It comes with features like military-grade encryption, no-log policies, IP address masking, kill switches, etc.

In short, a VPS is a cost-friendly hosting solution, while a VPN is a tool that privately and safely connects you to the Internet from multiple locations.

VPN vs VPS: which one is right for me?

They’re actually not competing choices. Depending on your needs, you may be using either, both, or none. If you’re an individual user who just wants to browse the internet safely, you will only need VPN. If you’re hosting a website or cloud services, then you will be using VPS. If you want to host content while connecting with an extra layer of security, then you will likely be connecting to your VPS via a VPN

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