A proxy server is a server that sits between the client computer and the actual server on the Internet. The proxy server plays the role of intercepting each request to the requested server and controlling the ability to access the desired address on the Internet. If this is not possible, then the proxy directs the request to another server.
Basic functions of a proxy server
When used in an enterprise, a proxy server, in addition to access to the Internet, i.e. its main role, it also has the function of ensuring control and security. As a gateway server, a proxy server acts as a separation of the enterprise network from other networks.
An Internet proxy server is also associated with a firewall function, which is used to protect the enterprise network from any outside intrusion.
How the proxy server works
An Internet proxy server, receiving requests from web pages or any other Internet users, checks them for the possibility of execution, taking into account the specified filtering. When all conditions are met, the proxy server checks its cache for the requested pages (this is the case if the proxy server is a cache server). If the web pages to which the request was sent are found, they are returned to the user. In this case, there is no need for a proxy server like a tool to forward the request. If the page cannot be found in the cache, then the proxy server acts as a client using its own IP address, requesting a web page from other servers that are located on the Internet.
From the visual perception of users, the proxy server seems to be non-existent. This is because sending a request and receiving a response is very fast. At the same time, it seems to the user that they were made directly from the Internet server.
There are two main reasons for using proxies. One is performance improvement and the other is query filtering. An Internet proxy server can improve performance for users because it stores all the requests that the user has made, making the Internet much faster. The second reason for using proxy servers is request filtering, which can be considered in schools or workplaces. In this case, students or employees may be denied access to certain Internet sites. This is accomplished by configuring the proxy to use.
Types of proxy servers
Proxy servers differ in the level of anonymity or transparency by hiding the client's real IP address.
Transparent web proxies are when a proxy server, by sending a request to a destination server, openly reveals that it is a proxy server. In addition, it does not hide the client's IP address. Anonymous Web Proxies do not hide the fact that they are a proxy, but they do not broadcast the client's IP address. There are also proxy servers that disclose their proxy status, but use a different IP address than the actual one.
