Using private proxy servers enables you to reduce, even eliminate,
the risks associated with
"public" ones:
- You'll be assured of SSL-compatibility, which means you can securely
login to membership sites, access webmail, and submit personal or financial
information via https:// pages.
- You'll have better awareness of the party operating the server,
and be able to review their "terms of use" and "privacy
policy".
Aside from such security and safety issues, private proxy servers are
typically far more reliable from a connectivity standpoint (they're
faster).
THERE ARE THREE OPTIONS FOR GETTING STARTED:
iPrivacyTools is one example of a service that offers
access to it's private proxy servers for a fee. There are other such
services - just do a Google search
for "private proxy servers". Things to consider when evaluating
services include:
- Where do you want your IP to be located, and where are their servers?
- Do they offer private IP's, or do you mind sharing an IP address with
other users?
- What are your bandwidth requirements, and do they have restrictions?
- Do you require encryption, and do they offer it?
- How much is the monthly/yearly fee?
Be aware that a software or services that only requires a one-time
fee is probably going to provide you with public proxy settings. That
may suffice for some users, but again, be aware of the risks.
You'll most likely want to ask if they offer access to private proxy
servers.
Setting up a private proxy server is not difficult for an average programmer
or server admin, and you can probably hire someone to do so for less
than $75. You will also have to purchase a special web hosting account
that allows shell access, which is probably going to run between $10
and $15 per month.
Even though there is a greater startup cost with this option, in the
end you'll have:
- Your own private proxy with a dedicated/private IP address.
- No sharing of bandwidth; no upload/download speed restrictions.
- Full control over monitoring/logging proxy activity (or not).
- Ability to share your proxy with friends/employees.
Given the above advantages, installation of a private proxy server
is perfect for:
- Travelers and expats who will be overseas for several months or
longer.
- Multi-employee offices that need to provide employees with a virtual
presence overseas.
- Any serious businessperson or entrepreneur that needs a second IP
address.
Yes, a little self-promotion :) When it comes to installing
proxy servers, we have a lot of experience. And we
know exactly how to configure a proxy so that it is highly anonymous
(not exposing your real IP).
Our standard fee for installation of a private proxy server is $35.
For an extra $10, we will also install a private VPN for you on the
same server. That will enable you to encrypt your Internet connections,
and surf securely from WiFi hotspots while traveling. Again, you'll
also need to purchase a special web hosting (shell) account, which usually
runs around $10 - $15 per month.
Please contact us if you're interested
in purchasing our installation services.