Using IP Authorization for Safer Proxy Connection

While browsing with a proxy is already a good way to boost your online security, you can make your connection even safer by enabling IP authorization (also called IP authentication). This quick guide covers all the pros and cons of using this underrated proxy security measure.

What’s IP Authorization?

IP authorization (authentication) is a standalone proxy authorization method that lets you gain access to your proxy server using the fixed IP address issues by your ISP. This method isn’t used as often as those logins and passwords, but it’s actually a much safer option.

Imagine that you purchase access to one of those fast Canada proxy servers. You can either choose to log in with a user name and password or to add your real IP to the server whitelist. By choosing the second, you tell the server to limit access for that single legit IP address. If you have multiple devices that need access to the same proxy server, you should look for a provider that allows whitelisting of multiple IPs. Fortunately, most providers allow up to 15 whitelisted IPs.

Benefits of the Method

Here is the list of benefits you can obtain by enabling IP authorization:

Automatic connection – whitelisted IPs can access proxy servers instantly without requesting any info from the user.
Automatic connection saves a lot of time for users and companies that operate multiple proxy servers and want a seamless workflow;
Enhanced protection – it’s quite clear that you can keep your device anonymous 24/7 with a fixed-IP VPN service. You can double that protection by whitelisting your custom VPN IP and keeping on all the time to enter a proxy server and double change the IP. Many experts consider it the best way to anonymize your activity on the web.

Drawbacks of the Method

Unfortunately, this authentication method isn’t flawless:

Using IP authentication, you make it a problem for yourself to access private proxy servers from new locations. Every network has a unique IP, which makes it too difficult to whitelist each new one. There’s a way out, though. You can keep your fixed-IP VPN always on!
Another issue may occur if your ISP provides dynamic IPs for enhanced protection from hackers. If your ISP does that, you will face unpredicted IP swaps that may disconnect you from your proxy server all of a sudden. In this case, the whitelisted VPN method will work, but it will cost you more too.
Setting up a proxy with a whitelisted IP for IP authorization can be a challenge for users who are not tech-savvy enough.

Is It Worth It?

Well, if you are a beginner who doesn’t need any enhanced protection systems, a login and password method is your best option so far. But if full anonymity and corporate system protection is a priority, the IP authorization method is most probably a necessary measure. Consider it as an option to avoid any breaches unless a hacker enters your office, takes you as a hostage, and makes you unlock the computer.