VPN vs. Tor: Which is Better to Use?

In a world where cybersecurity breaches are an ever-present threat, there are numerous ways that internet users can stay secure and maintain their privacy online. Some are more complex, while others are simple enough for almost anyone to use.

Among the more straightforward methods is using a VPN (virtual private network). Hundreds of VPN services are available internationally, each boasting unique features and perks that differentiate them from competitors.

For users who do not want to use a VPN, Tor serves as a viable alternative. Tor, short for The Onion Routing project, is widely used globally by individuals who seek online anonymity and conceal their internet activities through this service. Whether this is due to licit or illicit reasons, Tor ensures users are secure.

With VPNs and Tor both offering excellent security and various features, much debate occurs over which is better to use. Read on to learn more about these services, how they work, and what pros or cons may make one more suited to your needs.

VPNs

It is estimated that more than 1.6 billion internet users worldwide use a VPN. The technology first appeared in 1996 and has become a staple in the software library of anyone concerned about internet security.

When using a VPN, all traffic from a host computer is routed through a secure VPN server before reaching the internet. This traffic is heavily encrypted, ensuring that even if intercepted, its contents would be unreadable to unauthorized parties.

Alongside encrypting user data, VPNs also help mask users’ identities when surfing. Because all data is routed through a VPN server, this server’s IP address is seen by connecting websites or trackers. This masks users’ true IP addresses and even allows them to spoof their location and make it appear that they are in a specific physical region anywhere on the planet.

Commercial industries have also found unique uses for VPNs. Among these are gateways that allow users to access company servers if they have the correct authentication credentials. By using a VPN, companies can ensure that only those with access to the secure VPN can access company information online. This adds an added layer of protection for any digital resources they may have.

Tor

The Onion Router began as a project to protect classified information during the 1990s. While the core concept of the project was outlined at this time, the first version of the software wasn’t released until 2002. The public release took even longer and only occurred in 2003.

Using the theory of onion routing, Tor acts similarly to a VPN in that it does not allow traffic to move straight from a host computer to the internet. However, unlike a VPN, the outbound traffic doesn’t go to a dedicated encrypted server either.

Instead, connections are sent through three random servers located in various places internationally. These servers (also called relays) belong to the Tor network, are decentralized, and are operated by volunteers. They relay your data back and forth between the site you’re connecting to and your PC.

Like a VPN, the data leaving your PC is encrypted as it heads into the Tor network. This encryption is removed once your data has passed through the entry node (the first of the three relays). Return information is again encrypted when leaving the entry node to return to your PC.

Speed

When comparing the speed of using a VPN or the Tor network, one has a clear advantage over the other. VPNs, which are dedicated servers designed for high thoroughfare of traffic, can process requests quickly and without any noticeable delay.

Tor, however, routes your data through three separate geographical locations that could be hundreds or thousands of miles apart. Furthermore, the servers your data travels through on the Tor Network might not be dedicated high-tech servers. Instead, they could be equipment volunteered by individuals for use.

Because of this, connections through Tor are traditionally much slower. Therefore, data-intensive tasks are better conducted using a VPN.

Security

When it comes to security, both Tor and VPNs offer exceptional features. Both encrypt the data that travels between your PC and the server or entry node, making it difficult for anyone to glean any information from it. However, like with speed, one does have the upper hand over the other.

VPNs are great at encrypting your data and can more than secure your connection if you are engaged in activities like visiting a casino offering 100s of instant play app games. However, due to the additional nodes that Tor directs your data through, these connections are more secure and less likely to be intercepted.

Privacy

Although both VPNs and Tor mask your IP address and reroute your traffic to make it harder to trace your location, VPNs do little to compete with Tor’s privacy features. As such, Tor is the de facto champion regarding anonymity and privacy protection.

The primary reason for this is that Tor is open-source and decentralized. Therefore, while the Onion Project organization operates it, it is not a legal entity. VPNs, however, are commonly registered companies. As such, they can be subpoenaed by law enforcement agencies.

When this occurs, these providers must comply and hand over any information they may have on you. In most cases, this will include your IP address, which the VPN service can see because it is unmasked as it enters the VPN server.

Conclusion

Tor and VPNs offer unique selling points and ways to keep you secure online. While Tor is sometimes associated with the dark web or illicit online activities, it was originally developed for security purposes. It remains a tool for achieving safe and private browsing.

Likewise, VPNs can keep your identity hidden and your information secure. Therefore, the choice between the two depends on individual user preferences and comparing which option will work best for the task at hand. Whatever is used in the digital age, it is vital to remain secure when browsing the depths of cyberspace.