How does IP protection differ between a freelancer and an agency?

IP protection is more robust with a reputable agency. Agencies sign formal contracts with explicit IP assignment, mutual NDAs, and often carry liability insurance and certifications like ISO 27001. A freelancer engagement can have a solid contract too, but enforcement is harder against an individual, especially across borders, and freelancers rarely carry insurance or security certifications. If your project involves sensitive data, proprietary business logic, or regulated information, the agency's formal IP and security framework is materially safer than relying on a single individual's contract.