Difference between VPN and APN

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN) :

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.