VPS and VPN might sound the same; however, they are completely unrelated technologies. A Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a hosting solution; on the other hand, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that enables you to remain anonymous or private on the web. Although they are different services, both are usually wrongly grouped because of their almost similar-sounding names. These two terms can be confusing, especially when you’re simply beginning your journey on the web.
So, let’s understand more about these exciting and quite helpful technologies.
Table of Contents
What is VPS?
Before we compare both of these techs, it is essential to identify what VPS Hosting is and how it is distinctive from other platforms.
As mentioned earlier, VPS stands for Virtual Private Server, a hosting service offered by web hosting companies. It provides a virtual server for your website, enhancing its performance.
Still confused?
Let’s dive deeper to learn more about VPS.
A server is a type of computer with a high-end configuration that stores your website files and data. When you search for a domain name in your web browser, the server communicates with it and renders the stored information.
This web hosting provides various services such as shared hosting, Windows hosting, dedicated servers, etc.
VPS hosting utilizes virtualization technology to split a physical server into multiple virtual servers, resulting in significant server resources and the capability to scale up the virtual server when needed.
Therefore, you are not bound by the limitations of a single physical server since it provides private server surroundings. You won’t have to share server resources with other users; you’ll only share the physical servers. However, because of the virtualization technology setup, there won’t be any cross-over server use.
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Pros of VPS
- High Scalability
- Complete Customization
- Affordable than a Dedicated Server
- High-Performance
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Cons of VPS
- Pricier than Shared Hosting
- Not as powerful as a Dedicated Server
- Requires good Technical Knowledge.
What is VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a private network, and you can say one of the best tools to ensure your internet privacy that encrypts and tunnels internet traffic through a public server. A VPN protects your online privacy and security and unblocks censored or geo-locked content.
Businesses commonly use VPNs to allow remote workers to connect securely to their internal networks. However, VPNs are also popular among users looking to protect their online privacy and security.
Many types of VPNs are available, such as mobile VPNs, site-to-site VPNs, remote access VPNs, and personal VPN services. So, choosing the one that is right for you is essential.
Some Standard Features To Look For In A Vpn Include The Following –
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Encryption:
All traffic passing through the VPN should be encrypted. It ensures that third parties cannot intercept your data.
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Anonymity:
A good VPN masks your IP address and makes it difficult for websites to track your online activity.
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Speed:
Your VPN connection speed can vary depending on the server location and load. Choose a VPN with multiple server locations to ensure a fast and reliable connection.
So, you can check out the top 10 VPN providers if you plan to buy a VPN service.
When comparing VPS and VPN, it’s essential to consider your requirements. For example, if you’re looking for online privacy and security, then a VPN is a good choice.
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Pros of VPN
- Access geo-locked content
- Hide your private information
- Provide safety through anonymity
- Secure connection for remote work
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Cons of VPN
- Slowness in connection speed
- Complicated configuration
- Less security with free or low-quality VPNs
How Much Do They Cost? – VPS vs. VPN
There is no clear winner when it comes to the cost of VPN and VPS. Both options have pros and cons that need to be considered before making a decision.
A VPS can be a little expensive as it is a more specialist service, though not everyone requires it; only those who want to host a website need to consider it. Even then, many users will be comfortable with a shared hosting plan instead, as it comes with lower rates than VPS.
However, there are free and paid VPNs available. If you have a growing business, a VPS can be an advantageous way to gain the flexibility of a dedicated server for less. Research and plan for what you need from your web hosting, as with a VPN.
VPS vs. VPN – Significant Differences
| VPS | VPN |
| Hosts your sites and applications. | Creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and a remote server. |
| Widely used in businesses. | Individuals and businesses use it. |
| Hosted sites or applications can be vulnerable. | Mainly focused and designed around its security features. |
| Easy to scale | Helps you bypass restrictions and censorship |
| Requires good knowledge of servers. | A very affordable method or service with anonymity for your web journey. |
Why Do I Need VPS?
You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered what the difference between a VPS and a VPN is. Both technologies can be used to improve your online privacy and security, but they work in different ways. So, here’s a quick rundown of the critical differences between VPS and VPN.
As discussed earlier, a VPS is a hosting that gives you your private server space. This is usually more expensive than shared hosting. Still, it provides greater privacy and security since only you can access your server.
A VPS is a cheaper way to host your site than a physical server because you share the server with other clients while having full control over your virtual server. It’s also flexible for growing your online presence, allowing you to add more storage, RAM, or other resources as needed.
It demands good technical skills to maximize its utilization. Many web admins will be fine with a shared hosting plan; however, when they have additional specialized technical skills, a VPS is a decent option before considering a significantly more costly actual physical server.
Why Do I Need a VPN?
A VPN keeps your browsing history safe by encrypting your web traffic, protecting you from attackers. It enhances security when connected to public Wi-Fi and also protects your privacy on your home network.
ISPs and digital advertisers can track your online activity. A VPN hides your browsing and IP address, making you appear anonymous.
You can use a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions and access blocked websites or streaming services unavailable in your country.
With a VPN, you won’t face speed limitations, unlike ISPs that might restrict your browsing speeds with excessive use. It also prevents ISPs from tracking your activities and reduces the risk of speed restrictions, particularly when downloading files regularly.
Conclusion
A VPN is a user-friendly developed technology that lets you browse the web securely and safely. VPS will empower you to have your site hosted on virtual resources.
Both fill particular needs, yet you may utilize VPN and VPS as users. For example, let’s hope you have a huge site. First, use a VPS hosting service to have it. Then, while utilizing the internet to keep up with your site, you might use a VPN to shield the information you send on the web.
So, this was all about VPS and VPN; we hope now that you can make an informed decision regarding which option is compatible with your requirements.
