Proxy servers are a computer system or an application that intermediates between the client and the server. It accepts the requests from the client and directs it to the required server that can cater the information or webpage requested.

Utility of proxy servers

A proxy server offers various operational advantages. An ideal proxy server can:

• Maintain anonymity of the client
• ‘Cache’ frequently needed information
• ‘Police’ the traffic
• Speed up access to servers
• Scan for malware
• Maintain the log of activities

It also offers some features that can be disadvantageous, like, it can:

• Bypass security controls
• Circumvent regional restrictions
• Hide identity of culprits

Types of proxy servers

Proxy servers are classified as under into various types depending on the way they function:

Gateway proxy – Its function is to direct the requests to particular server and send the reply to the client without ant interference or modifications.

Reverse proxy – This works mainly for web servers. It protects the main server by features like load balancing, authentication and decryption.

Transparent and non-transparent proxy – Transparent proxy acts like a gateway but does check for identification and authentication. Whereas, non-transparent proxy modifies the request or response in order to provide some added service to the user.

Forced proxy – It can be intercepting or non-intercepting forced proxy, mainly to monitor adherence to various transfer protocols.

Suffix proxy – It allows modifying the name of the proxy server to the URL of the requested content. They are easier to use than regular proxies.

Because of the diversity of functions and utility of proxy servers, they are turning out to be a useful tool in networking. By ‘caching’ the required information and providing it whenever needed, they have helped in reducing traffic to and load on the main servers.