VPN vs. Smart DNS: Which One’s Better at Protecting Your Privacy? – Guide
VPN and Smart DNS proxies are useful when you want to hide your digital identity from various online services. However, their functionality is very different and one of them is significantly more effective in protecting your privacy than the other. It’s no secret that VPNs are one of the most efficient ways to anonymize your online traffic, but they’re not the only privacy tool available. Proxies, Tor, and even some browsers’ incognito mode can help you bypass online profiling and prevent various entities from monitoring and logging your traffic. However, few know of another type of service that can protect your privacy, namely Smart DNS (also known as Smart DNS, SmartDNS or Smart DNS Proxy). A DNS (Domain Name System) works as a phone book for internet-enabled devices: Allows you to access websites and other online services using domain names instead of IP addresses. Most users rely on DNS servers provided by their ISP. While this is not inherently wrong, your ISP (or network administrator) can easily block you from accessing certain websites by blacklisting their domains. The good news is that you can get around this by changing the DNS server issued by your ISP. Changing your DNS is perfectly legal, reversible, and unless your ISP has physical restrictions, it’s also a great way to get around geoblocking (geo restrictions).
How to Choose a Smart DNS or VPN
To bypass geo-restrictions, you need to use a reputable Smart DNS proxy or VPN. Unfortunately, not all Smart DNS or VPNs are built equal. Consider the following factors when choosing a reliable Smart DNS or VPN. Most Smart DNS will not be able to unblock blocked websites and streaming services such as BBC iPlayer, Netflix and Hulu.
Servers:
You should choose providers with many servers that span a wide geographic area. This will ensure you unlock and gain access to worldwide content. Also, many servers guarantee that you will avoid congestion.
Unlimited speed and bandwidth
n VPNs, servers must be optimized for speed and offer unlimited bandwidth. Smart DNS is exceptionally fast than VPNs. However, they must also have optimized servers.
Compatibility:
Smart DNS is supported by most devices with internet access by default. The VPN provider must offer applications for almost all computing platforms. The VPN must also support simultaneous connections.
Security and privacy:
the VPN provider must offer military-grade security and have a no-logs policy. The VPN must also have features like kill switch, leak protection and even split tunneling. Since Smart DNS doesn’t offer security, make sure they don’t keep logs if possible.
Money-back guarantee or free trial:
This is a failsafe if the services do not work as advertised. Plus, you’ll get a chance to try out the services before committing to a payment plan.
Great customer service:
Customer support is essential if you get stuck using the service. Look for vendors with friendly, responsive or 24/7 customer support.
Differences and Similarities Between a Smart DNS and a VPN
Online protection:
A Smart DNS does not protect your online activities. On the other hand, a VPN uses encryption and ensures a secure internet connection. A VPN takes care of your privacy and security online.
Speed:
Unlike a VPN, a Smart DNS has no encryption overhead. You will get speeds that are somewhat similar to those offered to you by your ISP. A VPN connection is slow due to encryption overheads and distant servers may not have great speeds.
Settings:
A Smart DNS requires no installations. To use a VPN, you must first install the required app.
Accessibility:
Both Smart DNS and VPN can help you get access to multiple platforms and streaming content. However, these are circumstances where a VPN will not work and you will need a Smart DNS. Vice versa is true.
Price:
VPNs tend to be more expensive than Smart DNS. Also, some VPNs include a Smart DNS service in their subscription. So, you can get a free Smart DNS if you buy a VPN.
When to use smart DNS
You should use Smart DNS in the following cases:
Advantages of Smart DNS
Disadvantages of Smart DNS
When to use a VPN
A VPN is great for the following use cases:
Advantages of using a VPN
Disadvantages of Using a VPN
Final note
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