You are now entering the PC Anatomy portal

A proxy server is a computer or application that acts as an intermediary, or a "middleman," between a client (like your computer) and a server on the internet. Instead of connecting directly, your requests go to the proxy first, which then forwards them to the destination server. The proxy's response is sent back to you, masking your original IP address and providing benefits like enhanced security, privacy, caching, and the ability to bypass geographic restrictions.

How it works

Client to Proxy: When you try to access a website, your request is sent to the proxy server.

Proxy to Server: The proxy server forwards your request to the destination server, using its own IP address.

Server to Proxy: The destination server responds to the proxy, not your computer.

Proxy to Client: The proxy server then sends the response back to you.

Key functions and benefits

Anonymity and privacy: A proxy server masks your IP address, making it harder for websites and others to track your location and online activities.

Security: It can act as a firewall, filtering malicious content and blocking harmful websites, and can help protect against network attacks by hiding the internal network's address.

Content caching: Proxies can store copies of frequently accessed web pages (cache). When another user requests the same page, the proxy can serve it from its cache, which speeds up access and reduces bandwidth usage.

Content filtering and access control: Businesses can use proxies to enforce internet usage policies, such as blocking certain websites or controlling access during work hours.

Bypassing restrictions: Proxies can help users access content that is geographically restricted by making it appear as though the request is coming from a different location.