A proxy server is an intermediary, filter, or gateway between a user and the web pages they visit on the Internet. A proxy helps prevent cyber intruders from entering your private network.
When a computer connects to the Internet, it is assigned a specific IP address. It allows you to correctly direct the flow of incoming and outgoing data. A proxy server, in fact, is also a computer on the Internet, which has its own IP address, through which the necessary data is redirected.
Proxy servers and network security
A proxy provides a serious level of security. It can be configured as a web filter or firewall to protect your computer from malware and other Internet threats.
In combination with a secure Web Gateway (SWG) or email security products, a proxy is particularly advantageous. In this way, traffic can be filtered according to the desired level of security or network bandwidth.
How do I use a proxy? Some people use a proxy for personal purposes, for example, to hide their location from the site. However, for large companies, a proxy can be used for a number of different tasks, such as:
- Improved security
- Protecting employees Internet activity from surveillance
- Balance internet traffic for network unloading and failure prevention
- Control of employees access to certain websites
- Save bandwidth by caching files or compressing incoming traffic
How does a proxy work?
Since the proxy server has its own IP address, it acts as an intermediary between the computer and the Internet. Any request on the Internet from a specific device within the network is first directed to the proxy server. The latter, in turn, sends data to the web server, receives a response, and forwards the data back to this device.
How do I connect a proxy to my network?
There are hardware and software solutions. Hardware devices are designed as separate equipment that is installed between a specific network and the Internet. Software proxies are usually hosted by the provider or located in the cloud. All you need to do is download and install the application you need to interact with the proxy on your computer.
Software proxies most often work by subscription. And free ones, as a rule, offer users significantly less opportunities, diluting the available functionality with advertising. However, even free solutions can be enough for a small network. But if you need high speed or the number of devices on the network exceeds the limit of free services — you can't do without a paid solution.
How do I configure the server?
To get started with the proxy server, you need to configure it on a specific device within the network or on the entire network at once. In most cases, the installation takes place in semi-automatic mode and no additional settings are required. However, if necessary, you can configure everything manually: you can register IP addresses and ports yourself.
How does a proxy server ensure privacy and protect data?
The proxy server serves as a firewall and filter. The end user or network administrator can choose the desired proxy server operation scenario. The proxy filters incoming and outgoing traffic, and also hides the IP addresses of devices on the network from prying eyes. Potential attackers will only be able to see the proxy server's own IP address. This means that getting access to personal data and other files will be problematic for attackers.
Proxy servers with encryption support can provide an additional layer of protection. This way, passwords and other personal data inside the network will be protected as securely as possible.
Advantages of a proxy server for business
Proxies have several advantages that can be useful for organizing large networks.
1. Increased security. A proxy can act as a firewall that reliably protects devices inside the network from intruders.
2. Complete privacy. A proxy server will help you avoid collecting data on employees ' IP addresses and, as a result, block unwanted ads.
3. Change your location. When configuring a proxy server, you can choose the country of its location. This trick will help you get full access to all content that is unavailable for some reason. This is especially true for Russia.
4. Blocking unwanted sites. Using a proxy, you can block access to websites that contradict the organization's principles, or simply distract employees from important tasks. For example, to social networks.
Types of proxy servers
All proxy servers provide users with a spoofed IP address. However, there are several different types of proxies, each of which has its own characteristics.
1. Direct proxy. This type of proxy is located between the Internet and the end user. It is best suited when a single point of entry is required for all devices on the network. A direct proxy ensures the security of device IP addresses, as well as provides direct administrative control.
2. Transparent proxy. This type of proxy is well suited for companies that want to use it discreetly without employees knowing about it. In addition to being invisible, a transparent proxy provides seamless user interaction. However, this type of proxy is more susceptible to certain security threats, such as SYN flooding and DOS attacks.
3. Anonymous proxy. It is aimed at making Internet activity untraceable. It hides the user's identity and computer information.
This type of proxy is best suited for users who want to have complete anonymity when accessing the Internet.
4. Proxy with increased anonymity. This type of proxy increases anonymity to a higher level, as users ' personal information is erased even before the proxy tries to connect to the target site.
Such a proxy is best suited for users for whom anonymity is an absolute necessity. Some free proxies that offer an increased level of anonymity, on the contrary, are decoys to gain access to users ' personal information.
5. Distorting proxy. This type of proxy does not hide from websites that data is being redirected through a proxy. But it also uses a spoofed IP address.
Distorting proxies are a good choice for those who want to hide their location when accessing the Internet. This type of proxy can create the appearance that the site is being accessed from a specific country, and gives the user the ability to hide both their identity and the data of the proxy server itself. That is, even if the location of the proxy server is known, the user's identity is still protected. Some websites automatically block distorting proxy servers, which may prevent the end user from accessing the desired sites.
6. Server proxies. These proxies are not associated with the Internet service provider, but are provided by a third-party organization. Server proxies are located in physical data centers, and all user requests are redirected through them.
Server proxies are a good choice for those who need a high response rate for a small fee. On the other hand, this type of proxy does not provide the highest level of anonymity, which can compromise the privacy and data of users.
7. Resident proxy. A resident proxy is able to provide an IP address that belongs to a specific physical device and redirect all traffic through it.
Resident proxies are well suited for users who need to check ads that are placed on their websites. At the same time, you can block cookies and unwanted ads from competitors or intruders. Resident proxies have a high level of reliability, but they are more expensive than conventional solutions.
8. Public proxy. These proxy servers work for free, but most often with ads. They also provide users with a spoofed IP address and hide their identity when visiting websites.
Public proxies are best suited for users who don't care so much about security and speed of access, but rather about the lack of subscription fees. It is free of charge that imposes a speed limit on public proxies, because this causes an influx of users. And the more users who use the proxy at the same time, the higher the load and lower the speed. Users of public proxy servers are also more exposed to the risk that their information will be available to other users on the Internet.
9. Shared proxy. This type of proxy requires multiple users to use the proxy server simultaneously. The main advantage of this solution is its low cost. One of the obvious disadvantages is low speed, especially if the "server neighbor" will put a large load on the channel. Also, if the aforementioned "neighbor" is banned from any Internet resource, you will also lose access to this resource, since the IP address is the same for two.
10. SSL proxy. This proxy has a high level of security. Since data is encrypted in both directions, the proxy hides its existence from both the client and the server.
This type of proxy is best suited for organizations that require enhanced protection against threats that the SSL protocol detects and blocks. A nice bonus is the fact that using such a proxy for a website can raise it in the search results. This is because Google prefers servers that use SSL. On the other hand, content encrypted via an SSL proxy cannot be cached. This means that when there is an influx of visitors to the website, the access speed can significantly sink.
11. Rotary proxy. The principle of operation of this proxy means assigning different IP addresses to each user who connects to the server. The IP addresses themselves can be repeated: a new device can be assigned the address of the device that recently disconnected from the server.
A rotary proxy is ideal for users who are engaged in parsing or web scraping. This type of proxy allows you to return to the desired site again and again with a new IP address. However, some rotary proxies operate through public or shared servers that may disclose personal data.
12. Reverse proxy. Unlike a direct proxy server, a reverse proxy server is located between the Internet and the web servers of the desired resource. It works by intercepting requests from the user before sending them to the web server. Responses are returned in the same way.
Reverse proxies are a good option for popular websites that need to balance the load of incoming requests. This type of proxy can help reduce the load on your hardware. The downside is that reverse proxies can potentially expose the HTTP server architecture if an attacker is able to break into it. This means that network administrators will need to strengthen network security in other ways if a reverse proxy server is used.
Proxy server or VPN?
At first glance, proxy servers and virtual private networks (VPNs) may seem interchangeable. Both products redirect traffic through an external server. Both allow you to access blocked websites. However, a VPN still provides more reliable protection against hackers, because it generally encrypts all traffic, incoming and outgoing.
You can also use both technologies at the same time, which will greatly increase the security level of network devices.
Summing up:
1. What is a proxy server? A proxy server is an intermediary, filter, or gateway between a user and the web pages they visit on the Internet. A proxy helps prevent cyber intruders from entering your private network.
2. How does the proxy server work? Since the proxy server has its own IP address, it acts as an intermediary between the computer and the Internet. The request from the computer is redirected through a proxy server, then returned back the same way.
3. Proxy server or VPN? At first glance, the proxy server and VPN perform the same functions. But from the point of view of security, the best option is a VPN. By encrypting all incoming and outgoing traffic.
4. What are the advantages of a proxy server? The benefits of a proxy server include increased security, private browsing, access to blocked sites, and prevention of viewing unwanted / distracting sites.
When a computer connects to the Internet, it is assigned a specific IP address. It allows you to correctly direct the flow of incoming and outgoing data. A proxy server, in fact, is also a computer on the Internet, which has its own IP address, through which the necessary data is redirected.
Proxy servers and network security
A proxy provides a serious level of security. It can be configured as a web filter or firewall to protect your computer from malware and other Internet threats.
In combination with a secure Web Gateway (SWG) or email security products, a proxy is particularly advantageous. In this way, traffic can be filtered according to the desired level of security or network bandwidth.
How do I use a proxy? Some people use a proxy for personal purposes, for example, to hide their location from the site. However, for large companies, a proxy can be used for a number of different tasks, such as:
- Improved security
- Protecting employees Internet activity from surveillance
- Balance internet traffic for network unloading and failure prevention
- Control of employees access to certain websites
- Save bandwidth by caching files or compressing incoming traffic
How does a proxy work?
Since the proxy server has its own IP address, it acts as an intermediary between the computer and the Internet. Any request on the Internet from a specific device within the network is first directed to the proxy server. The latter, in turn, sends data to the web server, receives a response, and forwards the data back to this device.
How do I connect a proxy to my network?
There are hardware and software solutions. Hardware devices are designed as separate equipment that is installed between a specific network and the Internet. Software proxies are usually hosted by the provider or located in the cloud. All you need to do is download and install the application you need to interact with the proxy on your computer.
Software proxies most often work by subscription. And free ones, as a rule, offer users significantly less opportunities, diluting the available functionality with advertising. However, even free solutions can be enough for a small network. But if you need high speed or the number of devices on the network exceeds the limit of free services — you can't do without a paid solution.
How do I configure the server?
To get started with the proxy server, you need to configure it on a specific device within the network or on the entire network at once. In most cases, the installation takes place in semi-automatic mode and no additional settings are required. However, if necessary, you can configure everything manually: you can register IP addresses and ports yourself.
How does a proxy server ensure privacy and protect data?
The proxy server serves as a firewall and filter. The end user or network administrator can choose the desired proxy server operation scenario. The proxy filters incoming and outgoing traffic, and also hides the IP addresses of devices on the network from prying eyes. Potential attackers will only be able to see the proxy server's own IP address. This means that getting access to personal data and other files will be problematic for attackers.
Proxy servers with encryption support can provide an additional layer of protection. This way, passwords and other personal data inside the network will be protected as securely as possible.
Advantages of a proxy server for business
Proxies have several advantages that can be useful for organizing large networks.
1. Increased security. A proxy can act as a firewall that reliably protects devices inside the network from intruders.
2. Complete privacy. A proxy server will help you avoid collecting data on employees ' IP addresses and, as a result, block unwanted ads.
3. Change your location. When configuring a proxy server, you can choose the country of its location. This trick will help you get full access to all content that is unavailable for some reason. This is especially true for Russia.
4. Blocking unwanted sites. Using a proxy, you can block access to websites that contradict the organization's principles, or simply distract employees from important tasks. For example, to social networks.
Types of proxy servers
All proxy servers provide users with a spoofed IP address. However, there are several different types of proxies, each of which has its own characteristics.
1. Direct proxy. This type of proxy is located between the Internet and the end user. It is best suited when a single point of entry is required for all devices on the network. A direct proxy ensures the security of device IP addresses, as well as provides direct administrative control.
2. Transparent proxy. This type of proxy is well suited for companies that want to use it discreetly without employees knowing about it. In addition to being invisible, a transparent proxy provides seamless user interaction. However, this type of proxy is more susceptible to certain security threats, such as SYN flooding and DOS attacks.
3. Anonymous proxy. It is aimed at making Internet activity untraceable. It hides the user's identity and computer information.
This type of proxy is best suited for users who want to have complete anonymity when accessing the Internet.
4. Proxy with increased anonymity. This type of proxy increases anonymity to a higher level, as users ' personal information is erased even before the proxy tries to connect to the target site.
Such a proxy is best suited for users for whom anonymity is an absolute necessity. Some free proxies that offer an increased level of anonymity, on the contrary, are decoys to gain access to users ' personal information.
5. Distorting proxy. This type of proxy does not hide from websites that data is being redirected through a proxy. But it also uses a spoofed IP address.
Distorting proxies are a good choice for those who want to hide their location when accessing the Internet. This type of proxy can create the appearance that the site is being accessed from a specific country, and gives the user the ability to hide both their identity and the data of the proxy server itself. That is, even if the location of the proxy server is known, the user's identity is still protected. Some websites automatically block distorting proxy servers, which may prevent the end user from accessing the desired sites.
6. Server proxies. These proxies are not associated with the Internet service provider, but are provided by a third-party organization. Server proxies are located in physical data centers, and all user requests are redirected through them.
Server proxies are a good choice for those who need a high response rate for a small fee. On the other hand, this type of proxy does not provide the highest level of anonymity, which can compromise the privacy and data of users.
7. Resident proxy. A resident proxy is able to provide an IP address that belongs to a specific physical device and redirect all traffic through it.
Resident proxies are well suited for users who need to check ads that are placed on their websites. At the same time, you can block cookies and unwanted ads from competitors or intruders. Resident proxies have a high level of reliability, but they are more expensive than conventional solutions.
8. Public proxy. These proxy servers work for free, but most often with ads. They also provide users with a spoofed IP address and hide their identity when visiting websites.
Public proxies are best suited for users who don't care so much about security and speed of access, but rather about the lack of subscription fees. It is free of charge that imposes a speed limit on public proxies, because this causes an influx of users. And the more users who use the proxy at the same time, the higher the load and lower the speed. Users of public proxy servers are also more exposed to the risk that their information will be available to other users on the Internet.
9. Shared proxy. This type of proxy requires multiple users to use the proxy server simultaneously. The main advantage of this solution is its low cost. One of the obvious disadvantages is low speed, especially if the "server neighbor" will put a large load on the channel. Also, if the aforementioned "neighbor" is banned from any Internet resource, you will also lose access to this resource, since the IP address is the same for two.
10. SSL proxy. This proxy has a high level of security. Since data is encrypted in both directions, the proxy hides its existence from both the client and the server.
This type of proxy is best suited for organizations that require enhanced protection against threats that the SSL protocol detects and blocks. A nice bonus is the fact that using such a proxy for a website can raise it in the search results. This is because Google prefers servers that use SSL. On the other hand, content encrypted via an SSL proxy cannot be cached. This means that when there is an influx of visitors to the website, the access speed can significantly sink.
11. Rotary proxy. The principle of operation of this proxy means assigning different IP addresses to each user who connects to the server. The IP addresses themselves can be repeated: a new device can be assigned the address of the device that recently disconnected from the server.
A rotary proxy is ideal for users who are engaged in parsing or web scraping. This type of proxy allows you to return to the desired site again and again with a new IP address. However, some rotary proxies operate through public or shared servers that may disclose personal data.
12. Reverse proxy. Unlike a direct proxy server, a reverse proxy server is located between the Internet and the web servers of the desired resource. It works by intercepting requests from the user before sending them to the web server. Responses are returned in the same way.
Reverse proxies are a good option for popular websites that need to balance the load of incoming requests. This type of proxy can help reduce the load on your hardware. The downside is that reverse proxies can potentially expose the HTTP server architecture if an attacker is able to break into it. This means that network administrators will need to strengthen network security in other ways if a reverse proxy server is used.
Proxy server or VPN?
At first glance, proxy servers and virtual private networks (VPNs) may seem interchangeable. Both products redirect traffic through an external server. Both allow you to access blocked websites. However, a VPN still provides more reliable protection against hackers, because it generally encrypts all traffic, incoming and outgoing.
You can also use both technologies at the same time, which will greatly increase the security level of network devices.
Summing up:
1. What is a proxy server? A proxy server is an intermediary, filter, or gateway between a user and the web pages they visit on the Internet. A proxy helps prevent cyber intruders from entering your private network.
2. How does the proxy server work? Since the proxy server has its own IP address, it acts as an intermediary between the computer and the Internet. The request from the computer is redirected through a proxy server, then returned back the same way.
3. Proxy server or VPN? At first glance, the proxy server and VPN perform the same functions. But from the point of view of security, the best option is a VPN. By encrypting all incoming and outgoing traffic.
4. What are the advantages of a proxy server? The benefits of a proxy server include increased security, private browsing, access to blocked sites, and prevention of viewing unwanted / distracting sites.
