VPS and VPN might sound the same; however, both technologies have nothing to do with each other. 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?
- What is VPN?
- How Much do They Cost? – VPS vs. VPN
- VPS vs. VPN – Significant Differences
- Why do I need VPS?
- Why do I need VPN?
- Conclusion
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 is an abbreviation for Virtual Private Server, a hosting service that web hosting companies offer. It provides a virtual server to host your website with enhanced performance.
Still confused?
Let’s dive deeper to know more about VPS.
A server is a type of computer with a high-end configuration to store your website files and data. So, if you search for any domain name in your web browser which communicates with the server and renders the stored information.
This web hosting provides various services such as shared hosting, Windows hosting, dedicated server, 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, there won’t be any cross-over server use because of the virtualization technology setup.
Pros of VPS
- High Scalability
- Complete Customization
- Affordable than a Dedicated Server
- High-Performance
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 –
- Encryption: All traffic passing through the VPN should be encrypted. It ensures that third parties cannot intercept your data.
- Anonymity: A good VPN masks your IP address and makes it difficult for websites to track your online activity.
- 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.
Pros of VPN
- Access geo-locked content
- Hide your private information
- Provide safety through anonymity
- Secure connection for remote work
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
When it comes to the cost of VPN and VPS, there is no clear winner. Instead, both options have their 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 of gaining 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. | 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. |
Why do I need VPS?
You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered what the difference between a VPS and 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 significantly more economical way to host your site than a physical server because you share the server with different clients while fully controlling your virtual server. In addition, it has the advantage of adaptability for developing online visibility, permitting you to add more storage, RAM, or other equipment depending on your needs.
In the case of typical shared hosting, plans can be very sluggish and restricted. A VPS implies your site can deal with an unexpected spike in an online rush. It also provides you with the adaptability of controlling and tweaking your server, adding additional customizations for an additional cost.
VPS hosting is ideal, assuming you intend to run complex applications and set up online business stages.
Therefore, it demands good technical skills to maximize its utilization. Numerous web admins will be fine with a shared hosting plan; however, when they hold additional specialized technical grip, a VPS is a decent option before thinking about a significantly more costly actual physical server.
Why do I need VPN?
A VPN keeps your browsing history secure. It scrambles your web traffic, so anything you do is safeguarded from attackers and other malicious clients. You’re more secure when associated with a public Wi-Fi organization by giving you upgraded security. In addition, a VPN safeguards your security in your home network.
That is because ISPs and digital advertisers can gather information about your online journey on the web. A VPN permits you to conceal your movement and IP address significance, disguised as a completely unknown identity.
Moreover, you can utilize a VPN to evade geo-restrictions; thus, you can visit controlled sites or essentially utilize streaming services that are not accessible in your country.
There’s the additional benefit of no transfer speed impediments. While numerous ISPs might restrict your perusing speeds after excessive use, utilizing a VPN implies they can’t follow your actions. ISPs are inclined to restrict download speeds when torrenting, which is especially helpful if you download multiple files routinely.
Conclusion
A VPN is a user-friendly developed technology that permits you to 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 VPS and VPS as users. For example, let’s hope you have a huge site. First, use VPS hosting service to have it. Then, while utilizing the internet to keep up with your site, you might use VPN to shield the information you send on the web.
So, this was all about VPS and VPN; we hope now you can make an informed decision regarding which of these options is compatible with your requirements.
