Every proxy sends your traffic out through a different IP address. What differs is where that address comes from, and that decides how websites treat it, how fast it is and what it costs.
The four types
| Type | Where the IP comes from | Usually best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Datacenter | Servers in a data center | Speed, bulk jobs, sites that don't block hosting addresses | Easiest for websites to recognise as a proxy |
| Residential | Home internet connections | Looking like an ordinary visitor; content that depends on location | Often priced by traffic, and slower than datacenter |
| ISP (static residential) | Addresses registered to an internet provider but hosted in a data center | A stable address that still looks residential | Fewer locations; usually priced per IP |
| Mobile | Mobile carrier networks | Work where sites are cautious about blocking, such as apps and social platforms | Usually the most expensive; speed varies |
How to choose
- Start with the cheapest type that works. If the site doesn't block datacenter addresses, you don't need to pay for residential.
- Need to stay logged in or keep one identity? Choose an address that doesn't change: a static ISP proxy or a sticky session.
- Need many different addresses to collect public pages? Rotating residential spreads your requests across many IPs.
- Need a particular country or city? Check that the provider offers it for the type you want before you buy.
Note: No proxy type guarantees you won't be blocked. Sites also look at behaviour: how fast you send requests, your headers and your cookies.
Not sure?
The Proxy Type Finder asks what you're trying to do and suggests a type to start with.
Try it: Proxy Type Finder — Answer one question about your project and find out which kind of proxy fits it.