What’s the best way to set up a SOCKS proxy server for secure browsing? or How reliable is a SOCKS pr

"Can a SOCKS proxy server improve my online privacy and speed?"

Hey folks, been reading up on SOCKS proxy servers and wondering if they’re worth the hassle.

I know VPNs are the go-to, but a socks proxy server seems lighter and faster for certain stuff. Does it actually hide my IP well, or is it more for bypassing blocks?

Also, does it slow things down like some other proxies? Heard SOCKS5 is better for speed, but idk if that’s just hype.

Any of y’all use one regularly? Would love some real-world takes before I mess with setting it up.

Thanks!