Is It More Secure to Use a VPN or SmartDNS
When it comes to choosing a secure server that lets you access geo-blocked content, uninformed users are often confused between using a VPN and a Smart DNS proxy server. While both serve the same purpose, they vary in terms of security, price, setup, and several other factors. If you are a new user, which server should you go for?
Let’s address this conundrum in this article by comparing both options and determining a winner.
Difference Between a VPN and Smart DNS
A Virtual Private Network or VPN service lets you access geo-blocked content through a server that is securely encrypted. By using a VPN, you are ‘fooling’ other sites by displaying a different server location. Basically, it just reroutes your connection to a website through a server. This service acts as a middle ground or ‘carrier’ that connects your device to the internet and lets you access music, games, TV shows, emails, etc.
On the other hand, a Smart DNS Proxy server changes your current location to access restricted local content by changing your Domain Name System or DNS settings. Your internet service provider runs DNS servers that convert website hyperlinks into Internet Protocol or IP addresses. Since your current DNS settings can expose your real location, replacing them is necessary. A company server in your vicinity is identified by the DNS server, which, in turn, provides a faster speed. However, you may not be allowed to use the services. This is when a Smart DNS comes to the rescue. It tricks the local server into unlocking services for you, after which you can access and watch geo-blocked content.
Which Option Is Better?
Now that you have learned the difference between these two servers, let us compare a few aspects to determine the better option.
Privacy and Security
Upon installing a VPN service, you receive additional benefits such as data encryption, access to geo-blocked content, and privacy protection. Listen to experts at allthingssecured.com/vpn/faq/what-is-smartdns who recommend using VPN for extra privacy. These added layers of security are necessary to protect your personal information from cybercriminals.
On the other hand, a Smart DNS does not provide encryption or any guarantee related to data protection. As soon as you go online and access the server through a Smart DNS, your digital footprint may widen. Your IP address will also remain unhidden.
VPN will protect your data when you are downloading and uploading files on a website, which is not possible with a Smart DNS server. It also cannot access firewalls or bypass IP addresses that are set up around professional settings such as schools and offices, which is possible with a VPN.
Application
A VPN service lets you watch geo-blocked content, use a public Wi-fi network in cafes and shops, and discover shows outside your region on your paid streaming video service. It also streams content with government censorship. A Smart DNS lets you access the same type of regional content but isn’t concerned about privacy or your personal information. However, if you are more concerned about streaming your favorite show at a faster speed, a Smart DNS should be your top choice.
Even though both VPN and Smart DNS work on almost every device – computers, laptops, gaming consoles, mobile phones, smart TVs, etc., the set up will vary depending on the device in use. You can take advice from a professional who will walk you through the installation process and help you set it up.
Both VPN and Smart DNS services are legal, as long as you use them in a positive light. Any form of illegal activity is prohibited. You must check country-based laws and abide by them when traveling.
Risks
Since a VPN service provides strong encryption, it can result in a slow connection, which may ruin your experience. While this is not always the case, you may notice slight changes at times. Certain providers focus on blocking VPNs instead of Smart DNS services, so don’t be surprised if you are unable to access regional content on Netflix.
A Smart DNS, on the other hand, does not provide added security or encryption like VPN. This may increase the threat of data breaches due to the exposure of your personal information across the server. Furthermore, your IP addresses are exposed in the presence of Smart DNS services, which lets advertisers and ISPs track your online presence.
Even though a Smart DNS offers multiple benefits, a VPN is more secure and provides strong encryption. When accessing content across another server, your main concern should be security, which can be achieved with a VPN. Minor disadvantages such as temporary slow connections or occasional unavailability of content can be ignored.