There are many types of proxies that are available for use. Each one has a unique feature that differentiates it from the other types of proxies. In this article, we’ll be discussing the proxies that are based on the protocol that they’re using.
Protocol-based Proxies
These types of proxies are defined by how your device routes data on the internet, so it’s based on how you connect to websites or web applications. Currently, there are three main protocol-based proxies: HTTP proxies, HTTPS proxies, and SOCKS5 proxies.
HTTP Proxies
HTTP proxies are the most common proxy types, and they use the HTTP protocol that’s quite compatible with most websites. HTTP proxies are largely phased out though because HTTP sends your data unencrypted. This makes it easy for hackers or users with malicious intent to steal all of your data.
Even with its large drawback, you can still utilize HTTP proxies for many tasks. Sneaker botting and web scraping are viable options for you to use HTTP proxies with. Nevertheless, it’s still recommended to not use HTTP proxies, but if you do use them, then make sure you’re not working with any important or sensitive information.
HTTPS Proxies
HTTPS proxies, also known as SSL proxies, are the better version of an HTTP proxy. HTTPS proxies are the most secure type of proxy as they use the Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protocol to encrypt outgoing data and decrypt incoming data. Websites and web servers will not be able to detect that you’re using a proxy. HTTP proxies give you the most privacy and security you can have.
There are many use cases you can utilize HTTPS proxies on. Web scraping on heavily protected websites, creating and managing multiple social media accounts, and protecting your network from cyber-attacks. Basically, in all the use cases for proxy servers, you can use HTTPS proxies.
SOCKS5 Proxies
The SOCKS5 protocol is one of the newest protocols in the market. They are a better version of HTTP or HTTPS proxies and are built to be an all-purpose proxy solution. They are versatile and can handle most tasks that you would want to use a proxy on. Not only do SOCKS5 proxies support the TCP protocol, but they are also compatible with the UDP protocol.
Due to its versatility, you can use SOCKS5 proxies in any tasks you like. Where they shine though, is when you want to transfer data in real-time. Utilizing streaming websites, downloading torrents, and optimizing gameplay are just a few of the things that you can do with it.
Conclusion
Of all the protocol-based proxies, SOCKS5 proxies are the best ones to use. They are also the priciest though. HTTPS proxies offer a good service at a more affordable price so it’s better to use them first. If HTTPS proxies aren’t enough, then you can use SOCKS5 proxies. HTTP proxies offer no security for you and are not recommended to use but at least they’re still better than free proxies.
