If you’re concerned about your privacy online, you’re not alone. A recent poll found that 81% of internet users worry about how companies use their data. Luckily, there are tools to help. Two popular options are Tor and VPN, which keep your online activity anonymous and secure. But which one is better?
While Tor is free and many VPNs come with a price tag, the decision isn’t just about cost. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between Tor and VPN, making it easier for you to choose the best tool for your online protection needs.
What Is Tor?
Tor or ‘The Onion Router‘ is a free software that can make a user anonymity network, which is used to protect the user’s identity while surfing the Internet.
Advantages of Tor
- Free to use: Tor is entirely free; more persons can access it than funded programs.
- Strong anonymity: This anonymity is well provided by Tor’s multi-layered routing system, where it is tough to track the source of the data.
- Decentralized network: No organization or entity controls the entire server because volunteers control the servers.
Disadvantages of Tor
- Slow browsing speeds: This is true because, through multiple layers of encryption and relays, Tor can slow down your browsing speed considerably.
- Not ideal for streaming or downloads: Tor was developed to provide users anonymous access to the Internet. Therefore, it is not the best platform for high bandwidth use, such as streaming and downloading.
- Restricted access to specific sites: It is estimated that some websites restrict people who use Tor, reducing its impact in some circumstances.
Note: If your ISP is throttling your connection, read how to stop ISP throttling for experiencing no lag in your streaming experience.
How Does Tor Work?
Tor sends your internet traffic through volunteer-operated servers (called nodes), redirecting your connection to keep your identity hidden. Every time your data goes from one node to another, it is encrypted, thus ensuring the anonymity of site visitors. This process repeats itself several times and adds a layer of protection for the traffic to get to the destination.
For more details, watch this video:
What Is a VPN?
A virtual private network (VPN) is an application that makes it possible to increase the protection of web connections and directs them through a distant server. Compared to Tor, which centers its concerns around anonymity, VPNs aim to protect identity and data by using a new IP address and encrypting online traffic.
There are a lot of benefits to a VPN, like bypassing geo-restrictions, and secure connection. We advise you to read the advantages below and set up a VPN today for an excellent experience.
Advantages of a VPN
- Faster speeds: VPNs are more rapid than Tor, so you can stream videos, play games, and download large files quickly.
- Secure data encryption: VPNs come with end-to-end encryption. Hence, your data will be protected from hackers and surveillance.
- Access to geo-restricted content: VPNs enable you to use services only available in some locations since VPNs will change your virtual location.
Disadvantages of a VPN
- Usually paid: Currently, most VPN services are paid, but some offer free services with limited functionality.
- Trust issues: You have to take its word that VPN companies don’t retain and sell your data on the side.
- Not fully anonymous: While VPNs hide your IP, they don’t provide the same level of anonymity as Tor, as the VPN provider can see your activity.
How a VPN Works
A VPN establishes an encrypted path between your device and the internet. It encrypts and transmits your data through a VPN server before reaching the destination. This conceals your IP address and protects your activities from being observed by hackers, ISPs, and advertisers.
Next, let’s check out the difference in Tor network vs. VPN.
What Is the Difference Between a VPN Vs Tor?
- Speed: Tor is slower for connection speeds than VPNs and thus unsuitable for use in some activities such as streaming and gaming.
- Anonymity: Tor is safer because it conceals your traffic through various proxies, making it harder to identify you. A VPN thereby offers security but not the anonymity of the user.
- Use cases: VPNs are best for those who want to conceal their identity and those who wish to access some sites from certain countries. Still, Tor is more suitable for those individuals who wish anonymity.
In summary, the difference between Tor and VPN is speed, privacy, and use cases. Tor is anonymity first and foremost, while VPNs are security and access to restricted materials.
Moreover, if you’re thinking is Tor a VPN? So, no, it does not encrypt your data and is not a VPN.
Which Is Better: Tor vs. VPN?
In comparing Tor vs. VPN, it is necessary to highlight that the right option depends on the situation. All in all, if you need more anonymity and are willing to sacrifice speed Tor is the one for you.
On the flip side, in cases where you require higher speeds for streaming, gaming, torrenting, or doing any other activity while ensuring your privacy is protected, a VPN is your best bet.
What Are the Hidden Risks of Using Tor vs. VPN?
Even though both Tor and VPN are designed to help users protect their anonymity and secure their connections while browsing the Internet, they miss some factors. One of these issues is privacy and authority.
In using Tor, you get a system with no centralized point of control and management where you can get into trouble with the law. This is very beneficial regarding anonymity because your data goes through volunteer nodes.
While the Tor network is advantageous, it also has its demerits due to a decentralized system. For instance, if some evildoers control several exit nodes, they can snoop on your traffic. Whereas VPNs are centralized services, you are entrusting the VPN provider with the security of your data. Moreover, VPNs never slow down your internet connection, providing you with fast browsing.
FAQs
Yes, a VPN is better than Tor when you need faster internet speeds when gaming or streaming 4K videos.
Using both together will slow down your connection and will not improve security as much as you’d expect.
VPN is not a necessity while using Tor, but it will go a long way in helping you out. It hides all your traffic and encrypts it, meaning it will hide it from your ISP.
Tor is free and provides more vital anonymity. On the other hand, VPNs are much faster and more secure for data protection.
No, tor is entirely free for the users.
Yes, Tor encrypts the data through multiple layers. It passes it through different nodes.
Tor is safe without a VPN, but adding a VPN can offer extra security if needed.
Combining the two is overkill for most people. You can connect to your VPN and then use the Tor Browser, but the average user does not need both services. While using the standard browser is fine for most situations, you will be safer using Tor if you deal with extreme levels of anonymity. So if it’s general internet privacy you feel is lacking or that you want, then go for a VPN.
Conclusion
In Tor vs. VPN comparison, we can say that one is better than another. Tor offers better anonymity, while VPNs provide better speed and strong encryption. Decide on your primary requirements, including anonymity, quick connections, and secure connections, and choose accordingly.
Thus, while some users can benefit from either of the two tools, the best approach is to use both when required. By understanding the difference between Tor and VPN and considering your online activities, you can make an informed decision and stay safe online.