Once you have v2rayN, where do the nodes come from? Two routes: buy from a “provider” (subscription service) or run your own server.
Subscription providers
Pros: works out of the box, nodes in many regions, no tech skills needed. Cons: shared lines that clog at peak; providers may oversell or vanish; all your traffic passes a third party, so privacy relies on their goodwill; there's a data cap.
SponsoredWhere does the subscription link come from?Our partner provider gives you 1 GB of high-speed Hong Kong data at signup — import it in one click.Get high-speed nodesSelf-hosting
Pros: a private, stable, controllable line; privacy in your own hands; you can run the strongest setups like VLESS + REALITY. Cons: you must rent a VPS and configure the core; if the single IP is blocked you swap it yourself; less regional variety than a provider.
How to choose
- Total beginner who just wants it working: start with a provider.
- Value stability/privacy and willing to tinker: self-host, or combine both (self-host primary, provider backup).
Either way the client is v2rayN / v2rayNG and the import is the same. Judge a provider by reputation and how long it's operated, not just price; when self-hosting, don't publish your server details.