What is a Proxy Server?

In computer terminology a proxy server is one which acts as an intermediary service, forwarding the requests of the client to the server and the response from the server back to the client. In this way it allows the client to be hidden from the server.

Why do you need a proxy?

You may require a proxy for any of the reasons below:-

• Caching proxy server - Allows faster web browsing by caching the files from the actual site.
• Bypassing Blocked sites - This allows you to open the sites that have been blocked in your network.
• Anonymizing proxy server - Removes identification from the client's requests thus allowing annonymous browsing.

Types of proxy

• Web Proxies - These are the easiest to use as they are based on a web interface which allows you to browse a website by just typing its URL. As a result, you don't need to configure your browser.
• Proxy Servers - These require you to configure your web browser by entering the IP Address and port number of the proxy server.