Tor or VPN: different ways to achieve online security
Tor and VPN are designed to provide security in the online environment, protecting user privacy. Each has unique features, advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on the specific needs of the user. In this article, we will look at the differences between Tor and VPN, and also analyze their strengths and weaknesses.
Tor network and VPN: main features and principles of operation
Tor provides anonymity by preventing servers from determining the user's identity or online activities. Tor uses multiple layers of encryption and transmits data through randomly selected nodes from its own network, making its "onion routing" method quite effective in matters of confidentiality organization.
The working principle of Tor is based on this method: user data is encrypted and transmitted through relays in the Tor network, creating multi-layered encryption. Each relay decodes one level of encryption and passes the data to the next random relay until it reaches the destination server. For the destination server, the latest Tor relay acts as the starting point of information.
The advantages of Tor include: complete anonymity and protection from hackers by hiding the IP address (How to find out your IP) of the user. Tor also has a search engine that is focused on privacy.
Among the disadvantages of Tor is that some firewalls block requests sent through this network. Tor is also typically slower than most VPNs due to the multiple layers of encryption it uses. It also has limited device compatibility, and data, although transferred anonymously, is not encrypted, making browser software vulnerable, especially when visiting HTTP sites.
Briefly about VPN
VPN creates a secure and encrypted connection over less secure networks. When you connect to a VPN, all your data is sent through this secure network, and your IP address is replaced with the address of the VPN server. VPN servers are located in different countries around the world.
The working principle of a VPN is that it routes your device's Internet connection through a selected VPN server (VPN server) instead of your ISP. This way, all your data goes online through the VPN, hiding your IP address and protecting your identity. A VPN creates a private tunnel from your computer to the Internet, encrypting your sensitive information.
The advantages of using a VPN include: compatibility with most devices, complete anonymity, the use of high-level encryption protocols, and the ability to bypass geo-blocks and firewalls. However, a VPN also has disadvantages, such as weak encryption, the need to pay for its use, possible problems with the software, the risk of leaking confidential information when using an unreliable VPN, temporary connection interruptions and the difficulty of checking the quality of encryption.
What to choose: Tor or VPN?
The fundamental differences between Tor and VPN, understanding of which determines the choice in favor of one or another product for organizing network security for specific requests:
- Cost: Tor - free, VPN – There are free options, but more reliable ones require investment.
- Latency and Bandwidth: Tor increases latency and reduces throughput, while VPN can slightly reduce throughput and increase latency.
- Network structure: Tor is decentralized, while VPN is centralized.
- Recommendations for use: Tor is not recommended for P2P activities, while VPN is recommended for this.
- Device compatibility: Tor is not compatible with all devices, while VPN is compatible with any device.
- Protection against online connections: Tor is not able to provide protection against all online connections, while VPN provides protection against all online connections, which is possible through encryption.
- Speed: Tor is slower due to onion routing, VPN is faster compared to Tor.
So, the choice between Tor and VPN depends on your needs and the threats that you may potentially encounter on the Internet when carrying out certain online activities. If your main goal is to provide anonymity and protect yourself from surveillance, Tor may be the preferred option due to its unique onion routing system and anonymity.
On the other hand, if you need faster and stable protection, especially if you work with sensitive information, a VPN may be a more suitable solution. A VPN is also useful for bypassing geo-blocking and ensuring a secure connection on public Wi-Fi networks (How to use Wi-Fi safely at an airport).
There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and depending on your specific needs and circumstances, you can choose what best suits your goals.
Personal VPN server: an effective solution
Personal VPN server is a more effective VPN solution compared to public VPN and Tor services for several reasons regarding the level of security, connection speed and level of service in general. Since it uses dedicated resources, it is not subject to the problems associated with multi-user networks that can arise when using public VPN services and Tor.
Buy a personal VPN server on favorable terms and decide on the best option for online protection simply thanks to the VPN portal. how. Here you will find extensive information about VPN server rental options, offer text, payment options and answers to frequently asked questions. Research and choose the best option that suits your unique needs.