Browser based VPN vs. System VPN

[dizmonk]

Quick question. I was using VPN Unlimited for a long time but have noticed several problems with it lately. I started using Firefox's built in (beta) VPN and that seems a LOT better on my system's performance.

Is a system-wide VPN that much safer than a browser based VPN (like Firefox)?

I'm losing a lot less battery and browsing errors. Which VPN's are you using which have the least impact on battery? Thanks.

 

[startergo]

I noticed VPN Unlimited dropped some servers as well. I am still using it though. Opera has its integrated VPN too.

 

[!!!]

Is a system-wide VPN that much safer than a browser based VPN (like Firefox)?

What reason are you using a VPN for? What is your threat model?

 

[dizmonk]

What reason are you using a VPN for? What is your threat model?

I only use it when I'm on public, unsecured wifi.

 

[gilby101]

I only use it when I'm on public, unsecured wifi.

For threats associated with public Wi-Fi I strongly suggest system-wide VPN is better as it can hide all traffic - some of which is unencrypted.

Browser activity content is already encrypted (https) so all a VPN does is to hide which web sites (by URL) you visit from local snoopers on the same Wi-Fi.

You also need to consider DNS (by default unencrypted). Does the browser based VPN send all its DNS requests through the VPN tunnel. A system wide VPN usually (by default) sends all DNS traffic through the VPN tunnel.

Note that for Apple users, iCloud Private Relay hides Safari (and Mail) traffic along with associated DNS requests.