SOCKS5

Intermediate

A versatile proxy protocol that handles any kind of traffic.

In depth

SOCKS5 is a proxy protocol that forwards TCP and UDP traffic without interpreting it, making it flexible for use beyond web browsing — including torrents, gaming and custom apps. It supports authentication for added security.

Examples

  • Routing a desktop app through a proxy
  • Using UDP-based applications

Common use cases

App proxyingGamingTorrenting

FAQs

Often, because it does not parse traffic, but real-world speed depends on the provider.

Related terms

HTTP ProxyResidential Proxy