Information about a Proxy Server

On some networks, the only way to browse the Internet is through a proxy server. For web users, a proxy server can be used to reach blocked websites. Because of these reasons, proxy servers are popular with users.

1. Definition:
A proxy server acts as an intermediary between websites and web browsers. Web browsers are configured to use a proxy server instead of accessing websites directly on the internet.

2. Performance:
A proxy server caches frequently accessed data. If a web browser requests cached data, the proxy server can retrieve it quickly instead of making another request across the Internet, which is slower.

3. Getting Through:
A network can be configured so that the only way to reach the Internet is through a proxy server that allows only authorized users who have an account.

4. Restrictions:
Local network policies can be enforced by proxy servers. For example, proxy servers can be configured to deny access to social networking websites.

5. Getting Around:
Web users can reach blocked websites by using a public proxy server on the Internet that is not being blocked.