A proxy server is a server application that acts as an intermediary between a client requesting a resource and the server providing that resource. It provides a gateway between users and the internet, preventing cyber attackers from entering a private network. A proxy server may reside on the users local computer or at any point between the users computer and destination servers on the internet. There are different types of proxy servers, including:
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Transparent Proxy: A transparent proxy tells websites that it is a proxy server and it will still pass along your IP address, identifying you to the webserver. Businesses, public libraries, and schools often use transparent proxies for content filtering.
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Anonymous Proxy: An anonymous proxy will identify itself as a proxy, but it won’t pass your IP address to the website – this helps prevent identity theft and keep your browsing habits private. They can also prevent a website from serving you targeted marketing content based on your location.
Proxy servers can be used for a variety of purposes, including improving privacy, security, and performance. Some people use proxies for personal purposes, such as hiding their location while watching movies online, while companies use them to improve security, balance internet traffic, control the websites employees and staff access in the office, and save bandwidth by caching files or compressing incoming traffic.
