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Abhishek Pathak
Abhishek Pathak

Posted on • Edited on

Types of Internet Proxies

What Is a Proxy?

At its core, a proxy is an intermediary server that stands between your device (computer, smartphone, etc.) and the internet. It acts as a gateway that forwards your requests and responses, effectively acting on your behalf.

When you send a request to access a website or resource, the proxy server relays that request to the destination, retrieves the response, and sends it back to you.

Type of Proxies

Forward Proxy:

  1. A forward proxy, commonly known as just "proxy," is often used by clients (users) to access resources from the internet.

  2. It masks your identity by using its own IP address, providing anonymity and security.

  3. When you request a webpage through a forward proxy, it fetches the content and sends it back to you, allowing you to access restricted or blocked content.

  4. In simple, its a vpn that we use.

  5. Your Shield of Anonymity

Reverse Proxy

  1. A reverse proxy acts on behalf of servers rather than clients.

  2. It sits in front of one or more web servers, distributing incoming requests to those servers.

  3. This setup enhances security by isolating the internal servers from direct internet exposure.

  4. Additionally, reverse proxies can handle tasks like load balancing, caching, and SSL termination.

  5. Best for server efficiency

reverse proxy

Advantages

Forward Proxy

  1. Enhanced Privacy and Anonymity
  2. Bypassing Content Filters
  3. Protection from Malicious Sites
  4. Monitoring and Logging

Reverse Proxy

  1. Load Balancing
  2. Caching
  3. Web Application Firewall (WAF)
  4. Content Compression

Top comments (2)

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nerluna profile image
NerLuna • Edited

As I recall, reverse proxies stand guard for servers, optimizing security by handling incoming requests and balancing server loads effectively.
If you're keen on exploring proxy solutions further, I recently started using Proxy solutions, which have proven reliable for both personal browsing and professional server management. They offer versatile features that cater to various needs, whether it's ensuring privacy online or enhancing server efficiency. I think it's definitely worth checking out to see how they can benefit your internet and server operations.

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elliottmann493 profile image
elliottmann493

Understanding proxies can really help navigate online privacy and server management. Forward proxies, acting like VPNs, shield your identity with their IP addresses, enabling access to restricted content securely.