VPN vs. Smart DNS (In-Depth Guide)

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VPN vs. Smart DNS (In-Depth Guide)

You’ve probably heard of VPN, DNS, and Smart DNS. You may have even heard that you can use them to bypass geo-blocking on your favorite streaming services like Netflix or Hulu. But you may be wondering what they do and whether you should invest in one of these tools to help you with this problem. This article will tell you everything you need to know about these technologies, including how they work and which solutions are best for different people.

What is a Smart DNS?

Many companies sell SmartDNS as a media unblocker, which is essentially a proxy. Users can use company-provided proxy servers to access media sites like Netflix, BBC, or Hulu and bypass geo-restrictions.

The user’s real IP address is not changed, in short, you don’t get a new IP address, unlike a typical proxy. SmartDNS differs from standard proxy servers in that instead of altering a user’s real IP address, it redirects their geo-location data through a proxy server to trick websites into allowing access.

For specific services and websites only, SmartDNS simply creates a different IP address for you. It’s just a cool DNS trick.

Simply put, SmartDNS does not alter a user’s IP address or encrypt any of the data provided. SmartDNS might just be a somewhat effective method of accessing media websites without experiencing speed loss due to encryption (although even successful media access has been hampered by SmartDNS providers, with many not providing constant access to Netflix).

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Users are not protected against deep packet inspection or snoops when using SmartDNS proxy servers, which do not protect against them.

What is a VPN?

A virtual private network, or VPN, is a type of secure Internet connection. When you connect to a VPN, your real IP address is replaced with a new one, and all forms of Internet traffic are encrypted.

Your information is safe whether you are using a VPN or not. Whether it’s a government agency or your Internet service provider, no one can read your data when you use a VPN (however, the encryption and security of a VPN can differ substantially).

VPNs are most often used for anonymity reasons, but there are also a significant number of people who use VPNs in the same way as SmartDNS. Because a VPN changes your IP address, you can effectively bypass geo-restrictions like those on HBO GO, Hulu, or even Netflix.

In a broad sense, a strong VPN can essentially accomplish the same things as SmartDNS. However, depending on the VPN you choose, there may be certain drawbacks.

Smart DNS and VPN risks

If you use a dubious Smart DNS service, you’re agreeing to have your DNS hijacked, a type of attack that redirects your Internet activity to fake websites without your knowledge. A few passwords later, and you’ve been hacked; his personal information is exposed and he is inadvertently funding cybercriminals.

The same rules apply to VPNs. Failing to do proper research on which reputable company to use could leave you open to a man-in-the-middle attack. You know, when you think you’re interacting with a website or a server, but there’s actually someone in the middle who is stealing all your information.

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Whichever service you choose, having a good reputation is essential. Before you sign up, do your homework by reading the reviews and reviewing the privacy policies.

Are VPNs and Smart DNS services legal?

Yeah! As long as you don’t use them for illegal purposes, using a Smart DNS proxy or VPN service is completely legal. On rare occasions, governments have limited the use of VPNs, but while they are not illegal at this time, we always recommend checking country-specific laws before traveling because these services may be restricted.

How to choose a VPN or Smart DNS for your needs?

Simply put, you should go with the one you are comfortable with. Avoiding free services is generally a good idea. It takes a lot of money to maintain and run any of the services. If a company offers its service for free, find out why. Most likely, they make money by selling your personal information.

Regardless of what you choose, there are a few things to check when selecting a VPN or Smart DNS proxy.

  • Crystal clear policies – If they have nothing to hide, they should always disclose this information so you know what they can and cannot access about you.
  • Clean and stable infrastructure: You don’t want your connection to be interrupted by slow connections.
  • Easier to deal with – you’ll be able to get in touch if you have a problem.
  • Customer Support – If something doesn’t work, you’ll want trained specialists to help you.

Conclusion

It doesn’t matter what you choose, but choose wisely and according to your personal or business needs. VPNs and Smart DNS proxy servers are gaining more popularity since the Covid pandemic disrupted our normal lives. Using VPNs and smart DNS proxies is always preferred when sharing sensitive data with an organization or someone you know.

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Categories: Technology
Source: SCHOOL TRANG DAI