A discussion on cyber-security is incomplete without mentioning proxies. So, if you are struggling with maintaining security online or looking for better access to restricted content, we have something in store for you.
But wait. What even are proxies? Let’s keep the high-tech jargon aside and understand what proxies are and how they work.
Well, simply put, proxies are physical or virtual servers. Proxies connect a server or website to the end user, like a bridge. The main purpose is to give users security, and protect them from threats.
What is a Proxy Server?
Proxy servers work in a simple way. When a client sends a request to access a website or any other internet resource, the request first goes through the proxy server. From there it is forwarded to the destination server on behalf of the client. The destination server processes the request and then sends it back to the proxy server. As the final step it is forwarded back to the client.
There are several different kinds of proxies that are available. These are being used by individuals and organisations alike for the benefits they bring about. Some of them are preferred more over others.
Let’s now have a look at these different types of proxies!
Different Types of Proxies
Let’s now have a look at a list of different types of proxies that are in common use today. We will highlight some of their basic features, common uses and other information that you will benefit from.
1. Web Proxy
A web proxy focuses on HTTP and HTTPS traffic. It works by intercepting and forwarding requests from a client to a server on behalf of the client. Web proxies are also referred to as free proxies. You don’t have to pay for them. However, because of this they may not provide quality. These are often slow, overused and sometimes harmful.
2. Transparent Proxy
A transparent proxy is one in which everyone is made aware that you’re connecting via a proxy IP. They also show your own IP address. They can be used to route traffic and control website access. This proxy type is not used by individuals. Most of the time, employers are more likely to install them. It is also used by businesses to authenticate users
3. Anonymous Proxy
An anonymous proxy hides the user’s IP address from the internet server. It does not reveal any identifying information about the user such as location and IP address. This feature makes it ideal for anonymity purposes. But they still do include headers showing that you are accessing a website through a proxy. Be sure to know that these are not the same as elite proxies that are the real deal! Elite proxies do not don’t disclose any information about you. Also, they don’t even show that you are using a proxy server. But these are sometimes referred to as anonymous proxies for marketing. These Elite proxies are used for online activities that need a lot of privacy, such as online banking.
4. Country Specific proxy
A country-specific proxy allows you to choose a specific country, city or mobile carrier so that you can surf as a real user from that area. So if you want access to content restricted only for Japan using Japanese Proxy will help you get that. Businesses can gain from using these proxies in a number of ways, such as increased security, better performance, and access to geo-restricted material.
5. SOCKS Proxy
A SOCKS proxy is a type of proxy that operates at the transport layer of the OSI model. It can handle TCP, UDP, and ICMP, just about any type of traffic. They do not have a caching mechanism. This can make them unsuitable for caching frequently accessed web content. However, you can download them to applications you use, for instance a video game connected to the WiFi.
6. Reverse Proxy
A reverse proxy is a type of proxy that operates on behalf of a server rather than a client. Unlike forward proxies, they do not route traffic coming from your device. Instead, they get hold of the traffic that reaches a server. They can improve the performance and scalability of web servers. These proxies are used to improve security, and balance loads. They can save bandwidth too.
7. Load Balancing Proxy
A load-balancing proxy distributes incoming traffic across many servers. This can ensure optimal performance. It monitors the health of each server. Then it redirects traffic to healthy servers to prevent overload or downtime. Load-balancing proxies serve value in high-traffic websites and web applications.
8. DNS Proxy
A DNS intercepts DNS queries and forwards them to a DNS server on behalf of the client. It can be used to bypass DNS-based internet censorship. It can also improve internet performance by caching frequently accessed DNS records. DNS proxies are used to manage DNS queries. They can forward queries to specific servers. They also store client queries. This improves traffic connection for queries that are repeatedly requested.
9. Residential Proxy
A residential proxy uses IP addresses assigned to residential devices, such as smartphones and computers, rather than data centre IP addresses. It appears as though the user is accessing the internet from a residential location. This makes it difficult for websites to detect proxy usage.
10. Mobile Proxy
A mobile proxy uses IP addresses assigned to mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. It is popular among mobile app testing, social media automation, and ad verification. Mobile proxies work with SIM and not your internet connection. These are also the hardest to block.
11. Back Connect Proxy
A back connect proxy allows the user to connect to many proxy servers automatically. It makes use of a rotating IP address system. This means that the user’s IP address changes after each request, making it difficult for websites to track the user’s online activities. Backconnect proxies are popular for web scraping, online gaming, and SEO tasks.
12. Static Residential Proxies
This type usually combines a data centre and residential IPs and is registered with an internet service provider. Major perks associated with this one include fast speed and stability. This proxy type works in a similar way to other proxies. It sends any connection requests you make through a different IP address. This hides your location and IP address. End result? The website is not able to track you or your automation software.
13. Shared Proxies
As the name itself suggests, shared proxies are the types in which many people can connect through a proxy at any given time. They are the cheapest option available though may not provide the most stable condition. These are also unfortunately much more likely to get blocked.
Reasons for proxy server usage
Here is why an organization or individual may choose to buy a proxy server:
- Control internet usage
Parents and businesses can use proxy servers. This will allow them to control how their kids and employees use the internet. How this works is quite simple! Organizations can get a list of sites that they don’t want employees to use during work hours. Next, they can configure the proxy server to deny access to these sites.
- Generate bandwidth savings and have greater speed
A good proxy server can boost the performance of your network. This is by allowing for greater speed and bandwidth savings. There are however differences between servers. Some may be better at offering features that others don’t provide.
- Added privacy
Using a proxy server can allow you to browse the internet in a much more private way. This is because of the privacy offered by some proxy servers. Some of them even change their IP addresses. Other relevant identifying information the web request contains is also kept hidden. Due to this, the destination server will not know who made the request. This ensures the privacy of your personal information and browsing habits. This is excellent for businesses that like to ensure strict security at all times.
- Enjoy access to blocked resources
Proxy servers provide users access to restricted content as has been recommended by Forbes. This makes it an excellent way of using the internet in countries with restrictions.
Conclusion
So, in this article, we addressed what proxies are, there different types since today we have a variety of them available in the market. All of these different kinds come with their own set of benefits and drawbacks that should be considered. Additionally, we addressed why you need to use them to improve your online browsing and security experience.
Make sure to share the article if you liked the content to help others understand what proxies are all about as well!
