proxy server

A **proxy server** is an intermediary system that separates end users from the websites they browse. It functions by receiving user requests, forwarding them to the destination server, and then returning the server’s response to the user. Proxy servers are commonly used to enhance privacy, improve security, manage network traffic, and bypass content restrictions. They can also cache web content to speed up access and reduce bandwidth usage. In web development and IT contexts, understanding proxy servers is essential for configuring networks, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and implementing access controls.