What is a Virtual Private Server / VPS?

Virtual private server hosting uses virtualization technology to split one physical server into a number of virtual servers. This makes it possible for you to have access to server resources, as well as the ability to add a virtual server when your needs occur.

What is a virtual private network / VPN?

VPN is the virtual private network. Essentially, a VPN generates a private and secure network, which then extends across your whole network connection. It provides you with a way to remain anonymous online while ensuring any data that goes over the connection.

VPS vs. VPN: The Differences

Both VPS-vs-VPN involves servers and uses virtual technology, but that’s where the similarities between the two ends:

A VPS is particularly useful to businesses as it offers powerful and cost-effective hosting for websites, applications, and more.

A VPN can help both businesses and individuals switch their virtual locations and increase their privacy.

Unlike VPSs, VPNs don’t host applications or websites – they safeguard your data, mask your real identity, among other things!

VPSs mainly offer server hosting and not security. This means that data, apps, and websites hosted on these servers can be vulnerable to government spying or breaches.

A VPN is used by millions of people to increase their security and privacy. It comes with features like military-grade encryption, no-log policies, IP address masking, kill switches, etc.

In short, a VPS is a cost-friendly hosting solution, while a VPN is a tool that privately and safely connects you to the Internet from multiple locations.

Can I Use My VPS as a VPN?

Yes, you can. Some tech-savvy individuals use VPS hosting to create their VPN. They do this because either they don’t want to pay the fees that VPN companies charge, or they don’t trust these services with their information (even though there are many well-known VPN providers with strict no-log policies such as PureVPN).

While it gives you more control over your VPN, the truth is a VPS has all the security vulnerabilities of any other physical server. As a result, your information may not be as private as you’d like. Then, you also need to consider the fact that making your VPN server is no easy task and requires considerable computer expertise.

What’s more, if you set up a VPN using VPS improperly, then you could potentially expose more of your data. You also might not be able to achieve the benefits of a VPN, such as encrypting your data or bypassing geo-restrictions. Unless you have the skillset and tools to build your VPN, you’re better off sticking to premium VPN providers like yours truly!

Final Verdict – VPS vs. VPN

It isn’t a matter of which technology is better, but rather using the right one for the right purpose. If you want to provide secure remote access to your employees, a VPN is your best friend. Also, many individuals use VPN services for the various benefits they offer, such as increasing security on public Wi-Fi, accessing unavailable content, and more.

If you want to host your application, website, or E-commerce store, then a VPS is what your business needs. As far as individuals are concerned, a VPS might be right for you want to perform CPU-intensive tasks or run complicated applications. That said, if you’re a casual Internet user, you probably won’t need to use a VPS.