Difference between VPN and APN
Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology which allows to change IP, bypass online censorship restrictions, and browse the Internet securely and anonymously only via a VPN connection. It creates a secure virtual tunnel for your online data so companies allow external access to their internal networks only via a VPN connection. It is planned for transmission of confidential information, such as email, over a public communication network.
Advantages of VPN:
- Privacy and Security: VPN provides encryption to the user’s data, ensuring privacy and security while browsing the internet.
- Bypass Geo-restrictions: VPN enables users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content that is not available in their location.
- Protects from Cyber Threats: VPN protects the user’s device from cyber threats such as hacking, malware, and phishing attacks.
- Anonymous Browsing: VPN allows users to browse the internet anonymously by hiding their IP address.
- Affordable: VPN services are generally affordable and offer different pricing plans for users.
Disadvantages of VPN:
- Slower Speed: VPN can slow down internet speed due to encryption and routing through a third-party server.
- Connection Issues: VPN can have connection issues, especially when using public Wi-Fi or poor quality internet.
- Limited Server Locations: Some VPN providers have limited server locations, which may result in slower speed and poor connectivity.
2. Access Point Name (APN) :
Access Point Name (APN) is a technology which supplies a mobile phone with the information required to connect to another computer network often the public Internet. It comprises a set of rules that respective phone carrier needs to know to let your phone establish a wireless connection. If one have a custom APN, he is responsible for configuring the level of safety means it helps in determining level of safety on the wireless provider.
Advantages of APN:
- Reliable Connectivity: APN ensures reliable connectivity, allowing users to access the internet, send and receive multimedia messages, and make voice calls.
- Compatible with Different Devices: APN can be configured on various mobile devices and is compatible with different operating systems.
- Secure Connection: APN provides secure connectivity between the user’s mobile device and the network provider’s network.
- High-Speed Internet: APN enables high-speed internet connectivity, enabling users to browse the internet, stream videos, and download content without any issues.
- Customizable Plans: Mobile network providers offer different APN plans with various data usage limits and pricing plans.
Disadvantages of APN:
- Limited Coverage: APN coverage may be limited in remote areas or locations with poor network coverage.
- Expensive: APN plans can be expensive compared to other internet connectivity options.
- Restricted Access: Some APN plans may restrict access to certain websites or services, limiting the user’s internet experience.
- Limited Data Usage: Some APN plans may limit the user’s data usage, which can be a problem for users who need unlimited internet access.
similarities, such as:
- Both VPN and APN are used to establish a connection between two devices.
- Both VPN and APN provide a secure connection between the user’s device and the internet/network provider.
- VPN and APN use encryption to protect the user’s data and ensure privacy.
- Both VPN and APN enable users to access the internet and browse websites, stream videos, and download content.
- VPN and APN can be configured on different devices, such as desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.
- Both VPN and APN can be used to bypass restrictions and access content that is not available in the user’s location.
Difference between VPN and APN :
S.No. | VPN | APN |
---|---|---|
01. | VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. | APN stands for Access Point Name. |
02. | It is a technology which allows to change IP, bypass online censorship restrictions, and browse the Internet securely and anonymously only via a VPN connection. | It is a technology which supplies a mobile phone with the information required to connect to another computer network often the public Internet. |
03. | It creates a secure virtual tunnel for your online data so companies allow external access to their internal networks only via a VPN connection. | It comprises a set of rules that respective phone carrier needs to know to let your phone establish a wireless connection. |
04. | This VPN technology uses the internet to transfer information using secure methods. | This APN technology protects confidential information being sent over a public telecommunications network. |
05. | It works over an existing public network, and only works if the user has another means of connecting to the Internet. | It directly connects users to the Internet and also allows the user connect to the external network with which it is associated. |
06. | If someone knows the details such as server name, account and password then it may be possible to connect a VPN from a mobile with action support. | It is a unique network which needs be programmed into one’s cellphone before he/she can connect. |
07. | These are mainly designed for the transmission of confidential information. | These are mainly designed for the wireless provider. |
08. | It is planned for transmission of confidential information, such as email, over a public communication network. | If one have a custom APN, he is responsible for configuring the level of safety means it helps in determining level of safety on the wireless provider. |
09. | Switching is allowed at the server level because users can choose to connect to any server they like. | Switching is rarely allowed except for private APNs because carrier network has the same APN at the user level. |
Conclusion:
While VPN and APN may sound similar, they are fundamentally different in their purpose, functionality, and usage. A VPN is used to provide privacy and security to the user’s data, while an APN is used to enable a mobile device to access the internet. It is important to understand these differences in order to choose the right tool for the right purpose.