This guide is going to delve into the differences between Smart DNS and VPN. We’ll help you figure out which is the best way to keep your online activity private in 2022 and beyond.
They’re both technologies for hiding what you do online. They can also get around blocks on content based on where you are. But that’s about all they have in common.
A Smart DNS, which stands for Domain Name Server, sends you to a proxy server. This lets you get around geo-restrictions, so you can stream or download content that would normally be blocked.
It doesn’t encrypt your connection, though. And a Smart DNS can’t change your IP address.
Now, a virtual private network (VPN) is different. It’s a type of network connection that’s designed to keep your data and identity safe from prying eyes.
Basically, it hides your IP address from the outside world.
All VPNs use encapsulation and encryption to protect your data. But they don’t all rely on the same technology to do it. To learn more about how VPNs work, take a look at our detailed VPN Guide down below.
We’ve even included installation guides to help you get started.
What is a VPN? Your Complete VPN Guide
VPNs use various protocols, each with its own pros and cons. Top-tier VPN providers, like IPVanish VPN, give you the freedom to choose which protocol you prefer.
Alright, now let’s dive deeper into the differences between Smart DNS and VPN.
What is Smart DNS?
A Smart DNS, or Domain Name System, is basically a translator for the internet. It takes a website address and turns it into the specific IP address of the server you need to connect to.
Companies often promote Smart DNS as a way to get around those annoying geo-restrictions on content. It works by rerouting your location through a proxy server, making it look like you’re browsing from somewhere else.
Basically, it tricks the website into thinking that you are browsing from a region where the content is allowed.
You might have heard of Smart DNS Proxy. They’re probably the most popular DNS service out there. One thing to remember is that Smart DNS doesn’t actually change your IP address. It also doesn’t encrypt your data, so there are no guarantees when it comes to things like deep packet inspection or online snooping.
Plus, it only intercepts traffic from the websites you choose.
Advantages of Smart DNS
- You automatically get access to unblocked websites that the DNS provider offers.
- It doesn’t slow down your internet speed.
- It’s super flexible and can be configured on tons of platforms.
- You can get around geo-restrictions and access the content you want.
Disadvantages of Smart DNS
- It doesn’t encrypt your data, which means your online activity isn’t as private.
- Your IP address is still visible.
- It can be a bit more complicated to set up compared to a VPN.
What is a VPN?
A VPN lets you surf the web privately and securely.
To explain it technically, a VPN encrypts your connection. This means that anything you send from your computer, Firestick, Fire TV, Android box, or other device is scrambled and unreadable to anyone trying to peek.
It then routes your traffic through a VPN server and changes your external IP address. This makes you completely anonymous online.
Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks are a big problem these days. Attackers can mess with your communication with websites or apps. They might do this to spy on what you’re doing or even pretend to be you to steal your personal information.
There’s also the risk of malware, Wi-Fi snooping, and getting tricked into using fake hotspots set up by hackers.
When you use a VPN, you add an extra layer of protection against those threats.
Your internet service provider, along with app/add-on developers, hackers, and others, will no longer have the ability to track your streaming and download activities. They won’t be able to monitor or log what you’re doing online.
If you’re a cord-cutter, you might want to consider IPVanish VPN. It’s a popular choice among people who have ditched cable TV. A major benefit is that it doesn’t keep any log files, which means your internet activity remains private and isn’t subject to scrutiny.
If you’d like to delve deeper into the world of VPNs, take a look at the TROYPOINT VPN resources below. These are quite popular and can provide you with lots of helpful information.
- Best VPN for Firestick/Android
- How To Improve VPN Speed
- How to Install VPN on Android
- How to Install VPN on Windows
Advantages of Using a VPN
- Keeps your IP address hidden from prying eyes
- Provides anonymity when you’re online
- Lets you safely connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots
- Enables secure usage of third-party streaming apps. This includes apps like Kodi, APKs, and IPTV.
- Stops your ISP from throttling your internet speed
- Prevents ISPs from logging your online activity
- Allows you to access torrent networks safely
- Makes sure your VoIP calls are secure and private
- Opens up access to content that’s restricted to certain geographical locations
Disadvantages of Using a VPN
- You might experience a slight reduction in your internet connection speed
- Some content providers or streaming services might block VPNs. However, you might be able to connect by switching to a different server location.
Smart DNS vs. VPN: A Detailed Comparison
| Use | Smart DNS | VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Online Banking | Not recommended because it doesn’t offer encryption to protect your data. | A better option due to the enhanced security provided by encryption. |
| Streaming | Recommended if your ISP isn’t throttling your internet speed. | Great for using free media streaming services. |
| Torrenting | Not recommended because it doesn’t hide your IP address, making you vulnerable. | Effectively masks your IP address to avoid ISP throttling when torrenting. |
| Bypassing firewalls | Not very reliable for getting around firewalls. | The recommended approach because it conceals your IP address, allowing you to bypass restrictions. |
| Cross-platform compatibility | Works reliably across various devices and platforms. | Also very reliable across different platforms. |
So, Which VPN Service Should You Choose?
I’ve spent the last several years testing out various VPN services. Through this process, I’ve discovered a provider that I believe is the most trustworthy and dependable.
The VPN service I currently use and recommend is called IPVanish. It’s a popular choice and is used by millions of cord-cutters worldwide. People who’ve moved away from traditional cable often rely on IPVanish.
One of the great things about IPVanish is that you can use it on multiple devices simultaneously. A single IPVanish account supports up to 10 devices at the same time. It’s also worth noting that IPVanish has a strict no-logs policy. They don’t store any data logs, so if you’re concerned about your browsing history being tracked, this is a major advantage.
Click Here for IPVanish VPN Discount
If you’re interested in learning more about IPVanish, I encourage you to check out our detailed and unbiased review. It’s linked below for your convenience.
Smart DNS vs. VPN: Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Key Difference Between Smart DNS and a VPN?
The primary distinction lies in how they operate. Unlike a Smart DNS, a VPN establishes encrypted connections. It also changes the IP address of the device you’re using, providing an extra layer of security.
Which is the Better Choice: Smart DNS or a VPN?
When it comes to online security, encryption, and protection against malware, a VPN offers more advantages compared to Smart DNS. However, Smart DNS has a benefit in that it usually doesn’t impact your internet speed. This is because it only re-routes specific parts of your web traffic, not everything.
Is it Legal to Use a VPN?
Yes, VPNs are generally legal; however, it is important to note that there are a few countries where they have been deemed illegal. The majority of visitors to TROYPOINT are from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and as of now, using a VPN is perfectly legal in all three of these countries.
How Safe is it to Use a VPN?
The level of safety when using a VPN depends on the specific provider you choose. A good VPN service should offer features such as anonymous torrenting, strong encryption (at least 256-bit AES), and a no-logs policy, meaning they don’t keep records of your online activity. For added security, it’s recommended to choose a VPN that has robust privacy features, IP masking capabilities, and numerous servers located around the world. These features ensure your online activity remains private and secure.