Peer-to-peer sharing has been around for a while now. The idea is simple, two or more peers are connected directly for data transfer. The process is fast and reliable when sharing large files quickly. However, the degree of encryption used in this setup has never been up to the mark. This is why users always prefer a VPN when interacting with other devices. It is secure and gives you an end-to-end encrypted tunnel.
While browsing the internet and interacting with other users with a VPN became secure, users still require a P2P connection to transfer data faster. That is why P2P (peer-to-peer) VPN servers were introduced. These servers brought the reliability of a VPN and the productivity of a P2P network together to provide users with the best experience.
In this blog, let us take a deeper look into how P2P works and what exactly is the role of a P2P server.
Understanding Peer-to-Peer & P2P VPN Servers
What is P2P?
A P2P network establishes a direct connection between the devices enabling the process to distribute the required file over the network. This makes the file transfer super fast and easy, meaning all connected devices work as servers and clients. However, considering the bandwidth constraints transferring a 100GB file quickly might not be possible for a server you use to access your internet.
Benefits of Using P2P Networks
The ability to pool resources of available peers make heavy file transfers easy, making peer-to-peer networks a huge success. If you are looking for a way to share files and establish a direct connection with many other devices, using a P2P network can be your best advice.
Some of the highlighted benefits of peer-to-peer networks are –
- Feasibility – Since no central server system is required, it will always cost you less to use a P2P server.
- Efficiency – Collaboration among other devices becomes too easy, which means every peer connected to the network is efficient as the resources are pooled together.
- Adaptability – In a P2P Network, bringing other users on board is super easy.
Other than these, a note-worthy benefit is that since P2P sharing is data intensive, the VPN hides all your activity from Your ISP so that the internet speed is not lowered.
What are the Drawbacks of P2P Servers?
Since every user is connected directly and no dedicated server manages the procedure, the chances of data theft and attack on personal information are high.
Hence people often avoid using P2P. The encryption of user data is the biggest drawback. If only there were a way to make the entire process more secure.
Some of the highlighted drawbacks of P2P are –
- Lack of a central backup that could be used in times of emergency.
- Security and encryption pose a huge threat as all the connected devices can access other’s files.
- Errors in curating and organizing files make the entire system appear more irritating.
These drawbacks sum up the lack of security in the P2P server.
What is a P2P VPN Server? Why is it Necessary?
VPNs have become a necessity for users. When websites you visit sell your data, making yourself anonymous online is crucial. In addition, when you work with P2P servers and invite other users, you unintentionally let them browse your personal data.
That is why taking necessary precautions and safety is advised when you want to use a P2P network. A VPN is the best way to add security to your current P2P network.
Security is always a threat to P2P network users. A VPN adds the functionality of security. You can say that both entities, i.e. a peer-to-peer network and a virtual private network, come together to give you the best of both worlds.
As far as the need for a P2P VPN server is concerned, it depends on the choice of the user. Here are some ways this combination can do wonders for the users –
- Enhanced Security
- Saves from Prying Eyes
- Stops Your ISP from Throttling your internet speed
Regular VPN or P2P VPN – Which one to Choose?
Now, after knowing everything about P2P VPN servers and regular VPNs, it all boils down to the purpose. If you are a user of P2P networks, investing in a P2P VPN server for your personal and professional requirements can be a great addition to your tech stack.
But, one thing that often is a game changer for VPN users is the price of a subscription. And obviously, since P2P VPN has added features and functionality, it is costlier than a regular VPN.
When you are using a VPN with P2P sharing support, the only thing that you get is security. However, if you are a regular user, you are not missing out on much other than faster file sharing. A Regular VPN creates a shield strong enough that there is no interference in your browsing experience, neither by bothering elements online nor your ISP.
For instance, if you choose to go with Systweak VPN, you may not get the P2P VPN server support, but your security will be top-notch. It all boils down to knowing your purpose and investing in the same.
To give you a better perspective, here is a quick comparison between the two –
| P2P VPN Server | Regular VPN Server |
| Supports P2P Data Transfers | Does not Support P2P transfers |
| Offers Complete Anonymity | Offers full Anonymity |
| Enhanced Security while browsing the internet | Ads security while browsing the internet |
| Ease of Access | Easy to use. |
As you can analyze, the only difference is with P2P sharing. So if that is one of your primary requirements, opt for one, else a regular VPN like Systweak VPN can do the job for you at a more affordable price.
Hope this gave you some insights on what a P2P VPN server is and how VPN works. If you have any questions feel free to drop them in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!
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