Location Restrictions: VPN versus DNS Proxy

VPN 2018-06-21 19:15:55

Nowadays, there are several ways for an individual to bypass location restrictions while protecting your own privacy. Two of the most common ways to achieve this are either via a VPN or by using a DNS Proxy.

While both services can be used to hide and change your location, each offer certain advantages that you would want to look into. In this article, we will show you some of the features that shows the difference between a VPN and a DNS proxy:

Choosing between VPN and DNS proxy

It’s important to note that both solutions are extremely easy to set up, but as these services will come with a price, you need to make sure that you get what you pay for, right? Here is the breakdown of some features:

Bypassing Location Restrictions

VPN

Smart DNS Proxy

Masked and Encrypted traffic
App support for Android, iOS, MAC, and Windows PC
Your Smart TV will not work with a VPN unless you have a router that supports VPN service.
High-speed connection based on the VPN provider you choose to sign up with.
Uninterrupted and dedicated servers located across the world.
The safest option you can get to stay protected from MITM attacks and DNS Traffic hijacking.

Works on all devices. Just modify the DNS IPs either on your router or devices.
Your internet speed will be unaffected since only relevant traffic will be channelled through the Smart DNS proxy server provider.
Some sites may not work, but all local sites will be available.
Change regional and location data without configuring your device.
Some ISPs actively apply DNS hijacking or transparent proxies. In such cases, Smart DNS proxies will definitely not work for you.

Here is a list of some of the Smart DNS-supported devices:

Android
Apple TV
iPhone
iPad
Smart TVs
Amazon Fire TV
Chromecast
Blue Ray Players
NowTV Boxes
Playstation 3 & 4
PS Vita
Roku
Sky+ Boxes
Wii
Xbox One 360
WDTV
And many more

The Takeaway

Above are the key points which most of us (end users) might look for when bypassing location restriction solution/service. And as always, the final say ultimately ends with you. The keynote here is to always take the good with the bad. If you understand what you are looking for in these internet solutions in accordance to your needs, then making a decision shouldn’t be so hard.

For example, if you wish to use any of these services for personal entertainment such as streaming shows and movies on Netflix, or accessing your work files online through several devices, then your option would be much clearer. However, just like we pointed out, you have to take the good with the bad. As speed, privacy, accessibility, and security are all of equal importance, you might find it convenient to have both services available for your use, and as you see fit for your purpose of going online.