What is a Proxy Server?
Posted by Taylor Seymour on Thu, Oct 30, 2008 @ 10:32 AM
Most casual internet users have very little interest in proxy servers. However, chances are you’ve encountered an error message while you’ve been surfing the web. The error message often makes reference to the proxy server. Understanding the function of a proxy server can help you understand why the error occurred and get you back to your web surfing.
Think of the proxy server as the unseen gatekeeper between you and the internet. When you’re on the internet and want a webpage, file, connection etc. the request goes directly to the proxy server. The proxy server then goes to the internet, finds the item you’re looking for, and provides you access.
A proxy server can provide you faster access to your targeted site if the item is in the proxy server’s cache. The cache is a small storage system which contains recently requested items. So if you’re trying to access a popular page on the internet which many people have accessed, or you return to a web page you just viewed the request will be returned much faster.
As the gatekeepers between you and the internet, proxy servers can also filter or deny requests. A company can regulate its proxy servers to deny access to certain users. This can prevent employees from tinkering with critical company financials or confidential documents. The proxy server fully regulates who can access internet information