A proxy server is a computer that transmits data between networks or internet protocols. In simple terms, it is an intermediary server filtering traffic between end-users and the websites they visit. proxy servers offer varying levels of security, functionality, and privacy based on your needs, purpose, or business policy. For example, there are paid proxy services which guarantee that your internet protocol (IP) traffic goes through government authorised servers, while free proxy services may not guarantee the aforementioned guarantee. Paid proxy service usually provides better security and functionality than free proxy service due to the expense of buying anonymous proxy services and maintaining the infrastructure.
A proxy server is used to control accessing the World Wide Web by different computers. A proxy server intercepts requests from other computers and enables you to access web pages from any computer that has an IP address. There are many types of proxy servers, such as, Clients-side JavaScript proxy servers, which enable you to access web pages from another computer by embedding a JavaScript code in the page. Server Side Software, which runs on a web server, can be downloaded and installed on web pages.
Clients-side JavaScript proxies use the JavaScript engine of the browser to proxy web pages. JavaScript is a scripting language that allows web applications to function interactively across different network devices without the use of client-side scripts. The proxy server sends a JavaScript request to the client’s web browser, which then sends back the appropriate response. This type of proxy usually bypasses security restrictions set by ISP’s (Internet Service Provider) on the Internet connection. However, this proxy may also leak information back to the internet user. As an example, if proxy server software disconnects connections when the user leaves the LAN, this could expose the user’s IP address to other targeted users within the LAN.
A Server Side JavaScript proxy server works exactly the same way, but it actually implements and operates behind the scenes. This means that the proxy server processes requests from the client and routes them appropriately through its IP-based URL. Again, this type of proxy may leak information back to the user, so caution should be exercised if using anonymous proxies. Most anonymous proxy servers are available free of charge, while some charge fees for usage.
Anonymous proxies offer several benefits to online users. One benefit is improved online safety. Proxy servers guarantee security by protecting one’s IP address. With an IP address, this allows a user to browse the Internet without revealing his or her real IP address to every website he or she visits.
Another benefit is privacy. Unlike regular IP-based reverse proxies, anonymous proxy servers do not reveal a user’s IP address to anyone who obtains their IP address via an anonymous proxy. Web servers perform anonymous web server side services and forward request for resources to the appropriate web server process whenever a request comes in. As such, requests made through an anonymous proxy server bypass most restrictions Internet users normally encounter when using standard web servers.
However, there are also drawbacks to using anonymous proxy servers. They can be used to bypass safe browsing practices. Some proxy servers also use their bandwidth to forward requests to pornographic websites. Furthermore, proxy servers can sometimes block legitimate websites. For example, Iran’s blocked websites include those of certain governmental organizations and news agencies.
Anonymous proxies are very different from proxy servers used for filtering. These are tools that are used to hide one’s IP address from a third party. Although these tools can hide your IP address, they may not necessarily prevent your Internet traffic from being tracked. Some of these tools may also leak important information back to the user.