Proxy servers are sometimes confused with the features provided by virtual private networks (VPNs). However, they're vastly different tools. Yes, both are internet gateways and allow you to change your IP, but that is where the similarities end.
Many consumers might be best off with a VPN to enhance their online privacy, but a proxy server serves countless business purposes, including circulating IP addresses for web and data scraping tasks.
If you want a simple proxy instead of the security a VPN offers, or you need a data scraping solution for business, you have plenty of choices, including MarsProxies and IPRoyal. If you want a web scraping giant, you want Oxylabs (which, at the time of writing, is offering 50% off with the code OXYLABS50).
For ZDNET's January 2026 update, we conducted a thorough overhaul of our guide to the best proxy server services, including substantial copy and editorial changes. We also added Webshare to our recommendations.
What is the best proxy server service right now?
Our top pick for the proxy server service with enterprise-level industrial web scraping tools is Oxylabs. The company has the largest pool of ethically sourced residential proxies, a deep API for performing scraping activities, and an AI that can help convert raw data into actionable insights.
Alternatively, the service that's the easiest to get started with is MarsProxies, an affordable option with a range of plans and products, along with great customer support.
The ZDNET team has extensive experience in the proxy server and VPN industries. To compile our recommendations, we closely monitor the overall market, new offerings, and recent customer feedback. Read on to find the best proxy server service for you in 2026.
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The best proxy server services of 2026
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