Proxy can bring you lots of benefits such as enhanced online privacy, access to geo-restricted content, … However, with countless options available, how can you ensure you're choosing the best proxy for your needs?
That's where proxy testing comes into play. In this blog, I will give you 3 methods to determine the best proxies for your task.
Let’s get started.
How many different types of proxies?
There are 3 most common types of proxies you should know about.
1. Proxy IPv4 and proxy IPv6
IPv4 is widely used and supported by most websites. However, due to increasing demand, IPv4 addresses are running out. As an alternative, IPv6 was developed. IPv6 proxies are more affordable since one IPv4 proxy can generate multiple IPv6 addresses. But, many websites still don't fully support IPv6. For instance, Amazon works with IPv6 proxies, but eBay or Etsy may not. Currently, IPv4 remains the preferred choice for most websites. However, considering the limited supply and higher costs, you might explore IPv6 for testing purposes. If the websites you use support IPv6, that would be great.
2. Rotating proxy and static proxy
A rotating proxy automatically changes its IP address over time or with each access session. On the other hand, a static proxy has a fixed IP address, providing consistent access to websites. For e-commerce product selling, it's advisable to use static proxies. However, if you need to register new accounts or warm them up, rotating proxies can be employed.
3. Residential proxy and datacenter proxy
Datacenter proxies are affordable, fast, and stable, as they originate from data center servers. Residential proxies come from residential networks, resembling regular internet connections, but they are slower and less stable than datacenter proxies. However, they are considered more reputable, leading to higher costs. To optimize costs, it's essential to test both types. For tasks prone to scanning, prioritize residential proxies. For other purposes, datacenter proxies can save money while maintaining a stable connection.
How to test a proxy?
How can you determine if the proxy is good or not? Let's examine three factors.
1. Geolocation
If you buying a Singapore proxy, you need to check if it really has geolocation in Singapore.
The simplest way is to check on Google Search. If the country displayed at the bottom of the page matches the country of the proxy you purchased, then that proxy has the correct location.
You should also check on websites that detect IP addresses deeply, such as eBay or Amazon.
In the Shipment section, if the website automatically displays shipping to the country that your proxy is using, then that proxy has the correct location.
Additionally, you can check on websites like Whoer.net or IPFighter. Information about the proxy's location, such as country and city, will be displayed when you access these two websites.
2. Blacklist
Next, check which websites have blacklisted this IP address. You can access IP Fighter or IP score.
The results of checking the blacklist on these two sites are for reference only because the data from these blacklist-checking sites may not be fully updated for all websites on the Internet. However, if the proxy you are using is blacklisted by many websites, then the trustworthiness of that proxy is also low.
On IP Fighter, if your IP is blacklisted, it will display a red alert and provide a list of these websites.
On IP-score.com, checking the blacklist may be a bit more complicated.
You should also note that if a proxy is blacklisted by website A, it can still be used for website B. You still need to directly use the proxy on the respective websites for testing.
3. Speed test
Lastly, check the speed of this proxy on Whatismyip or speedtest.net
When adding a proxy, it may affect the network speed. So, you should check the access speed of this proxy. If the proxy has poor access speed, it will cause you to experience stuttering, lag, or network disconnections when using it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best proxy for your needs, thorough testing is essential.
By carefully considering the3 factors I have mentioned above, you can make informed decisions to ensure optimal performance and security in your online activities.
