VPS vs VPN: differences and what to choose
6 min readUpdated
VPS vs VPN: What's the difference?
A VPS is a virtual server for running programs and storing data. A VPN is a connection that routes traffic through another network; a secure VPN tunnel encrypts data between your device and the VPN server. You can host a VPN server on a VPS, but renting a VPS alone does not create a VPN connection.
Consider a VPS for hosting a website or server application. A VPN connection needs a configured server and a compatible client.
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What is a VPS?
A VPS operates as a virtual server on a hosting provider's hardware. The plan specifies processor resources, memory, and disk space. Check the service terms for software installation permissions and administrator rights.
You can host the following on a VPS:
- Websites and APIs
- Databases
- Bots and other server applications
- A proxy or VPN server with the appropriate configuration
With self-managed hosting, you are responsible for system configuration and maintenance. In a managed plan, the provider handles some of these tasks; check the contract for the list of services.
What is a VPN?
A secure VPN tunnel encrypts traffic between your device and the VPN server. Which connections go through it depends on the client's routing.
- For internet traffic through a VPN, websites see the exit server's IP address.
- With split tunneling, some connections may go directly.
- A VPN does not make a user completely anonymous: account sign-ins and cookies allow a website to link activity to a user.
A VPN does not guarantee access to every website. When choosing a service, separately check its data collection rules and whether the apps you need work.
Key differences between VPS and VPN
| Criterion | VPS | VPN |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A virtual server | A network connection through a VPN server |
| Uses | Running server applications and storing data | Connecting to another network and sending traffic through it |
| Setup | Self-managed or managed, according to the plan | Client setup; with your own server, its maintenance too |
| What is provided | Server resources and agreed management rights | Connection settings or access through a compatible client |
| Access to a website | Depends on the configured service and network | Depends on the server, route, and website requirements |
A virtual server can be used for a VPN. In that case, VPS describes the hosting infrastructure, while VPN describes the connection configured on it.
When to choose VPS
Choose a VPS if you need to:
- Deploy a website or an application's backend
- Store and process project data
- Configure your own server services
- Access server environment settings under the plan's terms
When to choose VPN
Consider a VPN if you need to:
- Connect to a work or other private network using the settings provided
- Route internet traffic through a chosen VPN server
- Use the exit server's IP address for connections that go through the VPN
Check whether the client supports your device and routes the relevant app's traffic through the VPN. If your goal is to open a particular service, test it in your network before buying a long subscription.
For fundamentals, see what a VPN is and how it works.
What to check in a VPS or VPN service description
Before paying, open the plan description and service terms:
- Find what is provided: a virtual server, a ready-to-use VPN connection, or a server with VPN software installed.
- For a VPS, check processor resources, memory, disk space, permitted software, and management rights.
- Find who installs updates, makes backups, and fixes problems: you or the provider.
- For a VPN, check supported devices, the connection method, and data collection rules.
- If you want to host a VPN on a VPS, ask the host whether the chosen plan permits this use.
- If the description is unclear, ask support for a list of the features provided before paying.
A service name alone does not describe what it includes. Distinguish managed VPS hosting from a ready-to-use VPN connection by the terms, not a single word in an advertisement.
Can VPS replace VPN?
Yes, a VPS can host a VPN server. For example, you can configure WireGuard on a Linux server: the server and client need keys, addresses, and connection settings. Renting a VPS without this setup does not route your device's traffic through it.
Before configuring it yourself, decide who is responsible for:
- Installing and updating server software
- Access permissions, keys, and firewall rules
- Routing, DNS, and client settings
- Logs and troubleshooting
Use the chosen protocol's guide for your system. With a ready-to-use service, check which tasks the provider handles and which remain yours.
How to choose VPS or VPN for your task
For a website, database, or server application, choose suitable server infrastructure, such as a VPS. For a connection through another network, consider a VPN. A VPS can host your own VPN server, but it requires configuration and maintenance.
Before choosing, match your task to the service terms: resources, management rights, supported devices, and the provider's responsibilities. The name VPS or VPN does not guarantee security or access to the service you need.
FAQ
Is a VPS a VPN?
No. A VPS is a virtual server, while a VPN is a network connection. You can install a VPN server on a VPS, but these names describe different parts of the system.
What is the difference between VPN and VPS?
A VPN routes traffic through a configured connection to another network. A VPS provides server infrastructure for programs and data. Choose according to your task: connecting, hosting an application, or running your own VPN server.
Can I host a VPN on a VPS?
Yes, if the hosting terms and server configuration allow it. You will need server software, client configuration, and routing. The WireGuard example and list of responsibilities are provided above.
Author: Adam Jensen — Cybersecurity specialist, VPNON