Benefits of a VPN Proxy

Why do some people want to use a VPN Proxy versus some of the other proxies that are available? Generally the need for a VPN proxy is because you need a proxy service that will work with 3rd party applications other than your browser traffic.  For example, some people want to use it with Microsoft Outlook to mask their e-mail traffic, some may want it for a gaming application that are using or they want to use it with their chat software. In order for a VPN proxy to access these other applications, it needs to be installed on your computer so it can get to the base of your operating system.

Things to Know About VPN Proxies

Not all VPN proxies are the same. If it is a free VPN proxy, I would be careful in using them.  They have to be making money some way and it could be to steal your identity.  I would focus on a monthly service because their expenses are driven by the bandwidth that you are using each month on their servers.  You should also read through their website in detail to make sure they are truly a VPN secure tunnel.  Some market themselves as a VPN when they really are not.  

The Downside to a VPN Proxy

A VPN proxy is going to be software based so you may not be able to install it at work or on a public machine.  Most VPN proxies use encryption on your Internet traffic so you may see a decrease in your bandwidth.  Some VPN's come with multiple servers but some may only have one for you to access.  You should read their website in detail to understand exactly what you will be paying for.

What type of proxy you choose, really depends on what you are trying to accomplish. VPN proxies are required if you are looking to mask any 3rd party applications other than your browser.