A proxy is one of the most critical aspects of the modern internet. Without proxies, we wouldn’t have a lot of things we take for granted.
Now, proxies have changed quite a lot over the years, and there have been numerous proxies used for all sorts of tasks. Everyone is well aware of HTTP, and it’s a subsequent update, HTTPS, but these aren’t the only proxies, and making the internet go-round isn’t their sole purpose.
Some proxies like SOCKS5 are used to augment security on the internet – others are used to protect data and browsing habits.
Proxies play a pivotal role in the modern digital landscape, and as time goes on, they’ll become more and more important for every resident of the internet. Today, we’ll talk about proxies in general, but more specifically, we’ll cover sneaker proxies, and give you some tips on how to choose the best one out of the lot.
The definition of a web proxy
A web proxy, by definition, is a server application that acts as an intermediary between the user requesting information from the server, and the server itself. Think of a proxy as a necessary middleman that streamlines information flow between the server and the user.
Web proxies have been used for quite a while, as they make the flow of information faster, simpler, and safer for both parties. They provide the user with the necessary information while protecting the server from experiencing too many requests.
Web proxies are used by individuals and businesses alike. Businesses use proxies to protect their information, streamline their online presence, and hide their browsing. In contrast, individuals use proxies to protect themselves, their browsing history and construct bots for different applications.
There are many different types of proxies
As the reasons for using internet proxies vary, so do the proxies themselves. Many different classifications for proxies are based on type, kind, or specific proxy themselves. The most basic classification of proxy is based on their configuration, which are:
- Transparent
- Distorting
- Anonymous
- Residential
- Public
- Private
- Shared
- Datacenter
Aside from these, there are many, many more proxies used for different things. These are just the most popular proxy types based on their configuration. The configuration is not the only classification of proxies, as they can be classified based on their use.
What are sneaker proxies?
Based on use, sneaker proxies are one of the most popular ones out there. Sneakerheads are always looking for the latest release or “drop”, and once the latest that the industry has to offer comes out, it can be only a matter of seconds before it’s gone.
Sending too many requests from the same IP address when trying to purchase a pair of brand new kicks might prompt a soft ban, or otherwise block you, a fellow sneakerhead, from getting what you’re after.
Retailers, sellers, and manufacturers create a sense of exclusivity by limiting the time and amount of goods they’re selling, and the best way to combat this is to come at the sale from all sides.
The best tool for the job, in this case, is a sneaker proxy. It’s a simple bot proxy that allows you to send multiple requests for purchasing an item from different IP addresses, successfully avoiding the chance of missing out due to a soft ban.
These proxies are combined with sneaker bots, who send requests for purchasing the latest sneakers, allowing you to cop more than one pair of the latest sneakers, and secure a purchase before the competition.
How to choose sneaker proxies?
Based on the proxy that the sneaker bot is operating on, the bot’s speed, performance, and success rate will vary. There is an option to use shared proxies for sneaker bots. Shared proxies are affordable and easy-to-find, however, their low price comes with lower security and privacy level. They don’t have outstanding performance or high speeds, so if you can afford it, it’s always best to go with a residential proxy (e.g., Oxylabs).
Residential proxies have a unique IP address and are only used by you, or your sneaker bot, and there’s no one else clogging up the bandwidth. While they can outperform shared proxies, they’re far less affordable.
Choosing a proxy for buying sneakers is as easy as assessing your unique needs. Based on what you’re looking for, how many bots you’re using, and how bad you want that pair of kicks, you’ll either want a more easy-going and affordable option like a shared proxy, or a stern, reassuring, a bullet-proof option like a residential proxy.
Conclusion
While both residential proxies and shared proxies will do the trick, albeit, at different success rates, you should stay away from data centre proxies, and other proxies that share the same geographical location and IP address.
If a website finds out that a client is sending a request from the same location or IP, they’ll block it, rendering all of your bots and proxies useless. Stay smart and always use multiple proxies for your bots – as long as you do, we’re sure you’ll get what you’re after.
