Jonathan Boccara's blog

What is a proxy, what are they used for, where are they used

Proxy — what is it?

Today, when almost every business has pages on social networks, when some businesses are only online and there are thousands of online influencers, proxy servers and safe connection becomes a necessity that everyone needs. Some of you probably have already heard about proxy servers, others might hear about it for the first time. Therefore let's have a look on what is proxy server.

What is a proxy server?

A proxy server is an intermediate server or computer that mediates between the owner's computer and the destination server. A proxy server, like a VPN, serves several purposes: it increases the level of privacy on the Internet and helps bypass regional restrictions on access to individual sites.

Like a VPN, a proxy server spoofs the user's IP address. It is the IP address that tells where you are and where you go to the Internet from. And with the help of data on IP-addresses, various regional blocks are imposed. Therefore, hiding behind extraneous addresses, the user seems to change the place of entry to the Internet.

Types of proxy servers

There are several types of proxy servers:

  • Transparent - the server does not hide any information from the site, it transmits information that it is a proxy, as well as the user's real IP address. Such servers can be used in educational institutions.
  • Anonymous - the server reports that it is a proxy, but does not transmit real user data, instead, it is ready to provide anonymous data.
  • Distorting - they transmit dummy data instead of real user data, they allow you to bypass regional locks and hide the "points of entry" to the Internet.
  • Private - proxy servers that constantly change IP addresses, give out fake data and try to hide the user's trace on the Internet as much as possible.

As mentioned above, a proxy server is similar in functionality to a VPN. At the same time, both systems have both pros and cons. For example, VPN better protects user data, allows better encryption, but to work with it you need a separate client or at least a browser extension / browser with VPN function (Opera, Tor), and VPN can also slow down the Internet connection. The proxy does not require the installation of additional programs, it is easy to enable and configure it, however, it protects confidential user data worse.

Proxies and VPNs became especially popular in Russia after the blocking of Telegram in 2018, then it was with the help of them that you could use the messenger.

Where to get a proxy server?

There are two types of proxy servers: for free and with a fee.

When you need a proxy for one-time use, you can use a free proxy server, as it is not safe, not stable and is more available and easy to access.

If you need a proxy for your business, it is recommended to get a paid proxy server, as it is safe, reliable, stable and permanent.

If you want to know where is the best to get a proxy server, we recommend Proxy Line (https://proxyline.net/en/). The company has proved itself as one of the best proxy server providers. On their webpage you can find different packages for different usage, as well as 24/7 support. If you have inquiries, you can write to them and they will get back to you within short period of time.

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