When proxies first came out, a lot of people viewed them in a negative light – many thought that these servers were only used by users trying to hide their criminal and suspicious acts. However, as time passed by, and cases of crime against online security and privacy became frequent, proxies started being used in large numbers to protect users from such vices. Such crime practices include identity theft, ransomware, and hacking. Proxies enhance your online privacy and security.

So, which type of proxy is ideal for your business? What should you look out for any time you want to buy proxies?

Before going into these things, we need first to understand what proxies are. You have probably heard about proxies and some of their uses. If you haven’t, don’t worry; we got you covered.

Buy Proxies: What Is a Proxy?

What comes to your mind any time a proxy server is mentioned? A proxy server or simply a proxy is an intermediary server that acts as a buffer between a user and the internet. By working as an intermediary, the proxy will allow you to hide your IP address every time you browse the web.

What happens when you browse the internet? Every device accessing the internet bears an Internet Protocol (IP) address. The address is usually assigned to you by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). This address is essential for your device to communicate with other online resources. With only your IP address, a site can be able to track your online activity and tell your physical location. A proxy server, in the same way, has its own IP address.

When you browse the internet using a proxy server, traffic will flow from your computer, through the proxy before reaching the requested page. The response, on the other hand, will flow from the destination website, then pass through the server before reaching your computer or device. This process takes place in such a way that your original IP address is not exposed, and that way, you can enjoy high anonymity levels.

Buy Proxies: Proxy Types

The best way to protect yourself online is to buy proxies. There are different types of proxies. Let’s look at some of the most common ones.

Data Center Proxies

This proxy type is the most common one. When it comes to masking your IP address, data center proxies have nothing to do with your ISP or your internet connection – they are entirely independent of both! They allow you to browse anonymously without being linked to a particular physical address.

Residential Proxies

Residential proxies are servers connected to a real residential IP address. If you have an internet connection in your home, then you have a residential IP address. If your internet connection would be used as a proxy server, then it becomes a residential proxy. With a residential IP address, you can be able to mask your original IP address and enjoy anonymity. It’s prudent to note that residential proxies are affiliated to a specific ISP and a real physical location.

Buy Proxies: Shared, Semi-Dedicated, and Private Proxies

Proxies can either be shared, private, or semi-dedicated. Shared proxies, as the name suggests, are used by different people. In simple words, different people use the same server (which means that they will bear the same IP address) in the case of shared proxies.

Semi-dedicated proxies are, in a way, shared proxies. However, the admin limits the number of users sharing an individual proxy server. Typically, only three users share the same proxy, which significantly reduces lag.

Private/Dedicated proxy is a proxy server used by only one individual/business. If you buy this type of proxy, you are the only one who will be using it.

After going through different proxy types, you are probably confused about which kind of proxy to purchase for your business. There are a lot of providers available today; some are legit while others are not. What should you look for when buying proxies?

What to Look for Before You Buy Proxies

There are different things you need to consider any time you need to purchase a proxy. Here are our top five.

Reliability and Security

Security and the reliability of proxies come first. Make sure you buy from a reliable source. Don’t just purchase proxies from random providers on the internet – they are the ones responsible for any legal issues you might encounter. If you are not sure of a particular provider, look out for information via social media and reviews.

Also, go for a provider that offers support. A provider that provides support is proud of their product, and they go the extra mile in ensuring that their customers are enjoying the services they provide. Finally, never get free proxies. Free proxies can be tempting, but they cannot be trusted!

Speed

When it comes to using proxies, speed is crucial. You wouldn’t like to be stuck with a slow connection. Go for a provider who won’t limit your speed.

Size of IP Pool

If you need proxies from a precise location, it’s prudent to buy proxies from a provider with a big IP pool. A provider with an extensive IP pool can offer country, as well as city-level targeting. Moreover, a significant IP address pool means fewer cases of IP blocks.

Server Location

The location of your server will significantly determine your experience. Some regions are associated with scams and, therefore, considered high risk. Choose proxies from a trusted place.

Compatibility with Different Tools

The high chances are that you intend to use your proxies with various tools. Some proxies will work with different tools, while others will not. To save your business from stress, go for proxies that will work best with an assortment of tools.

Different providers offer different benefits and features. The next time you want to buy proxies, dig a little bit deeper and compare various features and go for the provider offering the best value and quality.