What is a Proxy Server? Everything You Need to Know to Stay Secure Online

Ever found yourself wondering what is a proxy server whilst in the middle of a heated internet privacy debate? We get it. The world of HTTPS, proxies, VPNs, and general internet security can get pretty complicated. That is why we have done most of the legwork for you.

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know, before signing up for a proxy server, the benefits associated with using a proxy server, how best to implement one into your system, and much more.

Before You Log On: Lock Down Your Privacy with Smartproxy

Do not let the complexity of the various internet privacy and safety options out there discourage you from securing your data. Whether you are a professional looking to get around those pesky geo-blocks, bypass CAPTCHAs, avoid IP bans, or you simply want to enhance your scrolling privacy, Smartproxy allows you to do it all.

Plus, sticking with this well-known, trusted provider means that you get access to a global IP pool that exceeds 65 million-strong across 195 locations. Smartproxy also offers 24/7 customer support, easy integration for both HTTP(S) and SOCKS5 protocols, as well as many other advanced features.

Get secure and get started with Smartproxy, today!

What Is a Proxy Server and Do You Even Really Need One?

At the basic level, a proxy server acts as the middleman between a client and a resource. This means that the server acts as the intermediary between your device and the wider internet. Think of the proxy as a sort of receptionist that handles communication between your device and the website, by sending and receiving requests on your behalf.

Without a proxy server, your device (with its unique IP address) connects directly to any website you visit. However, with a proxy in place, your request to visit the website is rerouted through the proxy server – which has its own IP address, and will connect to the website on your behalf.

Of course, the best proxy servers out there do much more than just forwarding data back and forth. They can even act as a virtual firewall, protecting your data from all sorts of hostile attacks.

Behind the Scenes: How Proxy Servers Work to Keep You Safe

Let’s say your device’s IP is 1.1.1.1. If you access a website like www.google.com directly, your real IP address is left completely exposed, which could result in you being tracked, blocked, or facing geo-restrictions.

However, when you use a proxy server, your request is sent to this server and not directly to the website. The proxy then forwards your request, which is sent with a new IP address, let’s say: 2.2.2.2. The website then sends its response to the proxy (at IP 2.2.2.2). The data is extracted and inspected before it is routed back to your device.

This leaves your original IP address (1.1.1.1) safely hidden, and gives you the added flexibility that comes from choosing a secondary IP address.

Find the Best Types of Proxies for Your Browsing Needs

Whilst having a basic understanding of proxy servers can get you far, you will need to dive into specific types of proxies if you really want to pinpoint the right one for your specific needs. Reputable proxy providers will offer an array of options, each suited to different uses. Some of the most common ones you will come across include:

Forward proxy

Here, a user’s requests are forwarded through a proxy server before going out to the internet. The proxy server acts as a firewall, where requests can be accepted or denied for increased privacy, visibility, and control.

Reverse proxy

In this case, the proxy server intercepts requests on behalf of the web server. This means that your device accesses the internet directly, but the request from the browser needs to be accepted or denied by the proxy server before you can access the site in question. In this case, the site is the client and the proxy acts as the website’s receptionist, managing requests from incoming users. This can help to manage website traffic, restrict access and increase the general stability of the website.

Anonymous proxy servers

As the name suggests, anonymous servers aim to maintain a user’s anonymity whilst surfing the web. These servers come in all shapes and sizes, offering various levels of privacy.

1. High anonymity proxy (Elite proxy) – Provides the most security by both concealing the user’s IP address and keeping its identity as a proxy a secret.
2. Standard anonymous proxy – Offers moderate security since it will hide the user’s IP address but will still reveal the fact that you are using a proxy server.
3. Distorting proxy – Disguises your IP address and can make it appear as if you are browsing from a different location. Will reveal the fact that you are using a proxy.

Transparent proxy servers

A transparent proxy does not aim to conceal the identity of users, but rather focuses on filtering, monitoring, and inspecting content. Some of the most common types include:

1. HTTP – Typically a fast and free option that uses the unsecured HTTP protocol (sometimes the more secure HTTPS protocol) and is configured within the browser or web-based interface.
2. HTTPS – Similar to the HTTP proxy, but utilizes the more secure HTTPS protocol to encrypt content and to access SSL-protected web domains.
3. SOCKS – Used for other types of internet traffic outside of web browsing, including content such as emails, file transfers, instant messages and more. SOCKS5 support even works with TCP and UDP, meaning that it’s suitable for things like streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Residential proxy servers

Residential proxies hide your real IP address by making it look like your web traffic is coming from a different, real residential IP address. These IP addresses are sourced from real home computers, laptops and mobile devices, which makes them nearly impossible to detect. Residential proxies are particularly effective for getting around robust security measures or geolocation blockers.

Data center proxy servers

As the name implies, data center proxies use IP addresses from localized data centers. This type of proxy is generally more affordable, faster and more reliable than residential proxies, but they are limited in terms of geographical reach. This makes them a popular choice for businesses that need efficient web scraping abilities, have to manage multiple accounts, or want to monitor their ads and SEO performance.

Decode the Key Differences Between Static and Rotating Proxies

As you decide which type of proxy will suit your needs best, you will also need to keep in mind whether you will need a static or rotating proxy.

Explaining the difference between the two is simple: a static proxy provides you with a single IP address that stays consistent for as long as you’re using it, whereas a rotating proxy changes periodically as you use it. Choose the static one when you require consistency, like when you are logging into accounts or frequently accessing the same sites. Use the rotating option when you need to dodge firewalls and restrictions when accessing resources.

What is a Common Function of a Proxy Server? Key Benefits You Should Know

Now that you have the answer to all your what is a proxy server? questions, it’s time to delve deeper into what a proxy can do for you.

What makes top-class proxy providers so great is that they fulfill a multitude of roles. By filtering and managing your web traffic, they provide better anonymity, increased flexibility, improved access, not to mention enhanced data scraping abilities. Some of the reasons why so many individuals and businesses flock to these types of services, include:

For Individuals

• Improved Privacy and Anonymity — Surf the web without fear of leaking your personal or device information.
• Bypass Geo-Restrictions — Access content and websites that are blocked or unavailable in your area.
• Bypass IP Bans and Rate Limiting — Rely on cached data to load your frequently visited pages faster and sneak past detection measures that seek to block your IP address or limit your bandwidth.
• Better Online Shopping — Avoid price discrimination with the use of global servers and secure your online transactions in the process.
• Avoid Tracking and Personalization — Dodge targeted ads and prevent websites from tracking your browsing activity.

For businesses

• Corporate Network Security — Filter and control internet access, as well as incoming data and content.
• Web Scraping and Data Collection — Gather data on your target audience and competitors discreetly and securely.
• Load Balancing and Performance Optimization – Distribute traffic across multiple servers and cache data for greater efficiency.
• Protection Against DDoS Attacks – Hide behind proxy servers for added protection against Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks.
• Improved Ad Targeting – Access the internet from various geolocations to test the efficacy of your ads and marketing messages.

Proxy vs VPN: Which Is Right for Your Digital Safety?

If you are looking into how to improve your privacy and safety online, chances are you have had to weigh up proxy servers and VPNs at some point.

While they both share a similar purpose – masking your IP address and bypassing various restrictions – they actually work in very different ways. For a detailed discussion on exactly how and why these services differ, head on over to our VPN vs Proxy page.

We have also summarized the key differences for you here:

A Few Final Thoughts on Staying Safe and Anonymous Online

To wrap up, what is a proxy server? Only one of the most powerful solutions for both businesses and individuals to safeguard their online privacy.

Whether you need to browse anonymously, get past restrictions, or simply test a few ads, leading proxy providers like Smartproxy can help you to do it all – and then some! Why are you interested in getting a proxy server, or how has it helped you to transform your online safety? Reach out and share your thoughts.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I get a proxy server?

These days, getting started with a proxy is easier than ever. All you need to do is:

1. Decide which type of proxy you need.
2. Choose a provider that suits your needs (tip: although you can find free proxy servers out there, paid services, like Smartproxy are typically faster, more secure, and more reliable).
3. Sign up and select the plan that’s right for you.
4. Get your access details.
5. Configure your device or application according to your provider’s instructions.
6. Test the proxy to ensure it’s working.
7. You’re ready to start browsing securely.

• What proxy server should I use?

There are plenty of free and paid proxy providers to pick from. However, we strongly suggest that you look into Smartproxy’s services if you want easy-to-use, high-quality infrastructure at a price that won’t break the bank.

Smartproxy offers access to various ethically sourced proxies, boasts an uptime of 99.99%, speeds of under three seconds, and a wonderful knowledge hub, to assist you when you get stuck. In our opinion, this makes it one of the very best, value-for-money choices.

• Is a proxy server safe?

It depends. Using a reputable proxy server can actually help keep your data and device information safe, by rerouting all of your web traffic and disguising your real IP address. Providers that offer HTTPS proxies, will even encrypt your data as it moves to and from the server to ensure optimal privacy and security.

However, unreliable (usually free) proxy services can hold several risks, as they open up your connection to malicious attacks by hackers looking to log your data. This includes details such as your browsing history, passwords, and sensitive personal information.

• Can a proxy server improve my internet speed?

Yes. Proxies have several features that can speed up your internet connection, such as:

• Caching improves loading times for frequently accessed websites
• A Proxy may help you bypass network congestion by rerouting traffic to reduce bottlenecks
• Connecting to a server that is geographically closer to the resource you are trying to access can increase the speed of data transfers.
• Concealing your IP address may also help you to avoid throttling or bandwidth restrictions.