What exactly is a web proxy and how does it help me? A web proxy is simply a web-based server appliance or program which acts like a gateway for requests coming from clients requesting websites that offer those services. The proxy can intercept the request before it is passed on to the website or service to be served. It does this by interpreting, compressing, and redirecting the requested pages and web pages to the correct servers.
Web proxies make using the Internet easier by separating the critical information coming from a client from the information needed by the web server. This helps reduce bandwidth usage since only the information needed by the client is passed on. A web proxy client is not limited to just websites; it can also serve documents, such as PDFs and HTML files. The use of a cache will save a client’s time when dealing with multiple web sites because it can remember what information has been requested before and what information is new and needed by the client application.
In essence, web proxies act as a wrapper or gatekeeper for web-browsing activities. This is done by detecting and responding to requests for web pages that are either untrusted or require authentication. With a VPN, you can browse the web while keeping an eye on your child in a private environment. By using a web proxy, an Internet user can make his browsing more secure and private while ensuring that his Internet activity is protected and does not fall under the scrutiny of malicious persons.
There are different techniques used for web proxy support. For instance, some web proxy applications send HTTP requests as well as TCP/IP packets. The difference between the two is that while HTTP requests make it to remote servers directly, TCP/IP packets make it to the remote servers indirectly. Based on the type of support provided, HTTP requests will either return a success response or an error one. On the other hand, errors will return a status code instead of a non-success code.
A web proxy also implements content transformation and dictionary management to support secure browsing. Content transformation allows you to transform web content such as HTML and XML into a compatible format that is readable and safe for local users and servers. The dictionary management allows you to control the settings on which entries are made in web documents. These entry settings are important for controlling access to sensitive content and preventing hacking.
Another aspect of web proxy application is the implementation of cache and URL cache. Cache is implemented to provide fast initial loading of web pages. However, the cache may be configured per the need of the web client. Multiple levels of cache can be assigned to improve server response time. However, the most recommended solution is to have at least one cache level that supports all possible extensions for all possible web browsers and servers.
There are various types of web proxies available like URL Check, Caching Algorithm, Basic, Custom, etc… Most of these types have the common features such as easy configuration, forwarding, etc… However, some web proxies have additional features such as content filtering and web proxy bypass. Some of the additional features are:
Web proxies do not require any type of plug-in or software to operate. It can be configured with the help of a web browser. Once the configuration has been done, the proxy servers can serve requests to the web servers without any delays. Web proxies are used for conducting protected web sessions and these servers protect the privacy of the users from any harm or attack.