Not all proxies are created equal. In fact, many proxies have varying levels of effectiveness in terms of speed, security, and routing protocols, making them quite different for users. 

The two main proxy types in use today are http proxies and SOCKS5 proxies. I'll break down the differences between these two approaches on several levels. So that beginners can understand like skilled programmers.

I'll be comparing features, speed, security, cost, usability, and practical usage.

HTTP proxy

An HTTP proxy is a proxy server that forwards HTTP requests. When a client needs to access a web server, it sends a request to the HTTP proxy, and the HTTP proxy forwards the request to the web server. The web server sends the response back to the HTTP proxy, which then forwards the response to the client.

HTTP proxies can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

1. Access to restricted websites: If some websites are blocked by firewalls or other network devices, clients can use HTTP proxy to access these websites.

2. Cache static resources: HTTP proxy can cache web pages, pictures and other static resources to improve the loading speed of web pages.

3. Filter content: HTTP proxies can control and monitor network traffic by filtering HTTP requests and responses. For example, businesses can use HTTP proxies to filter malware, advertisements, and other objectionable content.

Overall, an HTTP proxy is a common network tool used to improve network performance, protect network security, and control network access.

SOCKS5 proxy

A SOCKS5 proxy is a proxy server used to forward TCP and UDP traffic. Unlike HTTP proxy, it can proxy traffic of multiple protocols, including web, mail, file transfer and games, etc.

When a client needs to access a web server or other server, it sends a request to the SOCKS5 proxy, and the SOCKS5 proxy forwards the request to the target server. The target server sends the response back to the SOCKS5 proxy, which then forwards the response to the client.

SOCKS5 proxy has the following advantages:

1. More flexible: Unlike HTTP proxy, SOCKS5 proxy can proxy traffic of any protocol, not just HTTP.

2.More secure: SOCKS5 proxy supports multiple authentication methods, including username/password and GSSAPI, etc., which can improve network security.

3. More privacy: SOCKS5 proxy does not use plaintext transmission like HTTP proxy, but uses encrypted transmission, which can protect user privacy.

Overall, a SOCKS5 proxy is a powerful web tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, including accessing restricted websites, enhancing web security, and protecting user privacy.

There are several major differences between HTTP proxies and SOCKS5 proxies:

1. Application layer protocol: HTTP proxy is based on HTTP protocol, while SOCKS5 proxy is based on SOCKS protocol

2. Function: HTTP proxy can only proxy HTTP traffic, while SOCKS5 proxy can proxy traffic of multiple protocols, including TCP and UDP.

3. Authentication methods: HTTP proxies usually use basic authentication, while SOCKS5 proxies support multiple authentication methods, including username/password, GSSAPI, and no authentication.

4. Connection method: HTTP proxy only supports connecting to web server, while SOCKS5 proxy can connect to any server, including web server, mail server and game server, etc.

In general, SOCKS5 proxies are more flexible and powerful than HTTP proxies, but also more complex. Hopefully you now have a better understanding of the difference between HTTP and SOCKS proxies.