VPN = Private, encrypted proxy? n00b Alert!

I'm trying to wrap my head around "VPN" and proxy. In my reading, it appears that VPNs are essentially glorified proxies with which you have an encrypted connection with (i.e., "tunnel"). If this is so, then you can get the VPN banned just as easily as a proxy. Is this true?

I was reading a post and it almost sounded like you only needed a single VPN to register multiple Facebook users as opposed to many different proxies. I think I'm reading it wrong, but it'd be so awesome if I wasn't! lol

I'd like to hear some elaboration on this too.

I'd like to know this too.

I've just started researching getting traffic via FB & youtube and everyone talks about setting up multiple accounts but I can't seem to find out the best and safest way of doing it. Proxies or VPS or VPN?

In reading online, it appears that VPN providers have a group of IPs that they assign their users so it seems to be, essentially, a "secure proxy" that you connect to with an encrypted connection. If the IP has been banned, then oh well.

I'm not sure if the VPN provider assigns a new IP everytime you connect or if you're stuck with whatever they give you when you order, so getting a banned IP may or may not be an unsolvable problem.

I suppose I could buy one and find out.

Considering the price of VPNs as opposed to Proxies (They seem to be more expensive), it appears the most cost effective solution for using multiple IPs anonymously/securely is to order a VPN and then command your legions of proxies from that VPN.

However, it appears that authorities can still go after VPN users in the USA, so illegal stuff can be more risky with US vpns.

Some VPN providers allow you to change your IPs.

Some providers provide a random IP on reconnect.

Providers such as strongvpn have a limitation on how many different IP rotation you can do which is based on subscription package.

VPN is best if you are looking for a single IP solution.

Proxies are best if you need to rotate IPs, switch locations and use them with a software or automation tool.