Proxy server: what it is, how they work and why you need one

What Is a Proxy Server?

A proxy server is a special type of computer that acts as an intermediary between a client and a server on the Internet.

It can be used for a variety of purposes, such as ensuring data security and protection, load balancing on servers, speeding up access to online resources, and bypassing website and service access restrictions. A proxy server can be either a physical device or software running on a computer or server.

Who Uses Proxies and Why Are They Needed?

Proxy servers are used by various users and organizations for different purposes.

1. Individuals Many people use proxy servers to enhance their online security and privacy. A proxy can hide your IP address and location, which can help protect you from identity theft, hacker attacks, and other threats.

2. Business Organizations Companies may use proxy servers to control Internet access, secure their networks, and protect their data from unauthorized access.

3. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) ISPs use proxy servers to cache web pages and other resources in order to speed up access for their users.

4. Advertising Networks Advertising networks can use proxy servers to track user behavior online and display targeted advertisements.

5. Government Agencies Some agencies may use proxy servers for Internet censorship, blocking access to certain websites, and monitoring citizens' online activities.

How Do Proxies Work?

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between the client and the Internet.

When a client accesses a website or service online via a proxy server, the request is first sent to the proxy server. The proxy server processes the request and forwards it to the target website or service. Once the target site or service responds, the reply is sent back through the proxy server and delivered to the client.

A proxy server can perform various functions such as hiding the client's IP address, caching web pages, access control, and more.

Let’s break down how a proxy works:

1. The client sends a request to the proxy server.
2. The proxy server checks whether the requested content is available in its cache. If it is, the proxy server sends it back to the client and completes the request. If not, the proxy forwards the request to the target site or service.
3. The target site or service receives the request from the proxy server and processes it.
4. The response is sent back through the proxy server.
5. The proxy server may modify or block the response before forwarding it to the client.

Proxy Protocols

Proxy protocols are used to process requests and transmit data between the client and server. There are several types of protocols. Some of the most common proxy protocols include HTTP, SOCKS, SSL, DNS, P2P, and VPN. Each of these protocols has its own features and use cases, and the choice of a specific protocol depends on the user’s goals and requirements.

For example:

HTTP Protocol The most common proxy protocol used to handle HTTP requests. It can be used for caching web pages, load balancing, and ensuring security. An HTTP proxy can be configured to block access to certain websites or services and modify client requests before sending them to the target site.

SOCKS Protocol A proxy that operates at the TCP/IP level and can handle not only HTTP requests but also other protocols such as FTP, SMTP, etc. It can be used for securing connections and bypassing access restrictions to certain websites. SOCKS proxies can forward client requests to the target site without modifying their content.

SSL Protocol A proxy that supports SSL/TLS protocols and can provide a secure connection between the client and the server. It can be used to protect confidential information transmitted between the client and the server. An SSL proxy can be configured to encrypt client requests before forwarding them to the target site.

DNS Protocol A proxy that processes DNS requests and can be used for security and bypassing access restrictions to certain sites. A DNS proxy can be configured to redirect client requests to other DNS servers, which allows bypassing blocks and restrictions.

P2P Protocol A proxy used for file sharing through torrent networks. It can ensure anonymity and security when downloading and sending files. A P2P proxy can be configured to mask the client's IP address and bypass restrictions on torrent websites.

VPN Protocol A proxy that creates a Virtual Private Network (VPN) between the client and the server. It provides security and bypasses access restrictions to certain websites. A VPN proxy can be configured to encrypt client requests before sending them to the target site and bypass geographic blocks and access restrictions.

What Types of Proxies Exist?

By Connection Type:

HTTP Proxy A proxy server used for data exchange via the HTTP protocol. It can be used for data caching, server load balancing, and secure data transfer over the Internet.

SOCKS Proxy A more universal type of proxy that can work with any protocol using TCP/IP. It allows users to bypass access restrictions to certain websites and services and ensures secure data transfer over the Internet.

SSL Proxy A proxy server that provides data encryption between the client and the server. It is used to protect confidential information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data.

DNS Proxy A proxy server used to redirect DNS requests. It can bypass access restrictions to specific websites and services and speed up network performance.

Ping Proxy A proxy server that allows bypassing ping restrictions (sending ICMP packets). It is used to check the availability of remote servers and devices and to diagnose network problems.

FTP Proxy A specialized proxy type used for data exchange via the FTP protocol. It enhances file transfer security over the Internet and improves network performance.

Transparent Proxy An invisible proxy to the user that does not require browser configuration. It is used to ensure secure data transfer over the Internet and may be deployed in schools, offices, and other organizations to control Internet access.

Is It Safe to Use a Proxy?

Using a proxy server can increase security in some cases, but the exact level of security depends on many factors, including the proxy type, its configuration, quality of implementation, and more.

A proxy server may help bypass access restrictions, but it does not guarantee full anonymity.

Your IP address can still be tracked by other means, such as MAC address-based IP allocation or device fingerprinting. In addition, the proxy server itself can be vulnerable. If an attacker gains access to the proxy, they may obtain information about the clients, including their IP addresses and data transmitted through the proxy.

According to the 2013 study "The Web's Most Widely Used Proxies," around 15% of all web pages are loaded through proxy servers. However, not all proxy servers are created equal—some are more vulnerable to attacks than others.

How Is a Proxy Different From a VPN?

A proxy server and a VPN (Virtual Private Network) are two different tools used to ensure Internet security and data protection. Here are the key differences:

1. Proxy Server:

• Acts as an intermediary between the client and server.
• Can be used to bypass site or service access restrictions.
• Can hide the client’s real IP address.
• Can offer some level of protection from attacks and monitoring.
• Does not encrypt data between the client and server.
• Can itself be vulnerable to attacks.

2. VPN:

• Creates a virtual private network between the client and server.
• Encrypts data between the client and server.
• Can hide the client’s real IP address.
• Offers a higher level of security and protection than a proxy.
• Can bypass geographic blocks and access restrictions.
• May be slower than a proxy server due to data encryption.

Proxy servers and VPNs serve different purposes. If you simply need to bypass access restrictions, a proxy might be enough. But if you require higher levels of security and data protection, a VPN is the better option.

How to Choose a Proxy Server

Choosing a proxy server depends on your needs and goals. Several factors to consider include:

1. Purpose of Use Determine why you need a proxy. If you need to bypass access restrictions, choose a proxy specialized for that. If you need security and data protection, opt for a proxy that provides encryption and anonymity.

2. Proxy Type There are several types of proxy servers, each with its own features and use cases. We discussed them above.

3. Server Location The location of the proxy server can affect connection speed and quality. If you're in a specific country, it's better to choose a proxy server located in that same country.

4. Price Some proxies are free, but they may have limitations in speed and functionality. Paid proxies offer better performance and support but may come at a higher cost.

5. User Reviews Before choosing a proxy, check user reviews to understand the reliability and performance of the service.

6. Technical Support Check whether the proxy provider offers technical support. If you run into issues, it’s important to have someone to contact.

How to Set Up a Proxy

Setting up a proxy server is relatively easy, but the process depends on your operating system and software.

Here are step-by-step instructions for setting up a proxy on some popular systems and browsers:

Windows 10:

• Press Win + X and select “Settings.”
• Go to the “Network & Internet” section.
• Select “Proxy.”
• Enable “Use a proxy server” and choose the type (HTTP, SOCKS, etc.).
• Enter the proxy server’s address and port, along with login and password if required.

macOS:

• Open “System Preferences” and select “Network.”
• Click the “Advanced” button.
• Choose the “Proxies” tab.
• Enable “Use a proxy server” and choose the type (HTTP, SOCKS, etc.).
• Enter the proxy server’s address and port, along with login and password if required.

Google Chrome:

• Click the menu icon in the top right corner.
• Select “Settings.”
• Go to the “Network” section.
• Click “Change proxy settings.”
• Enable “Use a proxy server” and choose the type (HTTP, SOCKS, etc.).
• Enter the address and port, and login credentials if needed.

Mozilla Firefox:

• Click the menu icon in the top right corner.
• Select “Settings.”
• Go to “Network & Internet.”
• Click “Proxy settings.”
• Enable “Use a proxy server” and choose the type (HTTP, SOCKS, etc.).
• Enter the address and port, and login credentials if needed.

For more detailed guidance, refer to your software’s documentation or support service.

Is It Expensive to Use a Proxy?

That depends on the type of proxy you choose.

There are both free and paid proxy servers.

However, free proxies often suffer from low speeds and lack of support. Plus, free IPs can be blacklisted at any moment.

Moreover, many free proxies are intentionally designed to steal your personal data.

Paid proxies range from budget-friendly to expensive. But they offer key benefits:

• Exclusive access to the proxy;
• Quality customer support;
• High speed;
• Connection stability.

So the cost of a proxy and whether it’s worth it is a personal decision based on your needs.

Belurk Service Overview

Belurk is a service that offers high-quality proxy servers with excellent speed and anonymity.

The speed of our service ensures fast and reliable connections to servers, which is crucial for efficient online work. No matter what your online tasks are—SEO optimization or anything where speed matters—our service is a reliable partner.

Our platform supports HTTP and SOCKS5 protocols, allowing requests to be customized for software needs and providing maximum flexibility and compatibility.

We offer the ability to purchase proxies starting from just one IP. This is ideal if you don’t need many resources. Our flexible purchase options let you tailor your plan to your project's needs.

For developers, we offer an API for integrating proxies directly into your projects. This allows seamless and automated interaction with proxy servers, making their use even more efficient and convenient for specific project requirements.

By the way, Belurk stands out not only for quality but also for a variety of pricing plans, giving users the freedom to choose what best suits their needs and budget! Click the link and choose the right plan for you!

Conclusion

Now you know what proxies are, how and why to use them, and how to configure them on your device. We hope this article was helpful!