Types of Proxy Servers
- Open or Forward Proxy Server: The proxy is present in front of the clients. It further acts as a gateway between the client and the network. This type of proxy is generally used in internal networks present in schools, offices etc.
- Reverse Proxy Server: Reverse proxy servers are the intermediaries that are present in front of web servers and distribute incoming requests from clients to those servers. A reverse proxy ensures a smooth flow of network traffic between clients and servers.
- Anonymous Proxy Server: Anonymous proxy servers hide the IP address of the client which helps in ensuring access to websites blocked by firewalls. They are used to increase privacies and to defend the client from cyber attacks.
- Split Proxy Server: In the split proxy server the programs are split and installed on two different computers.
- High Anonymity Proxy Servers: Highly anonymous proxies display a non-proxy public IP address and conceal anyone from seeing the clients utilizing them. This also helps in accessing websites that restrict proxy servers. This type of server goes one step beyond the standard anonymous proxy server.
- Transparent Proxy Server: It is used to act as a cache for the websites. It can not provide any kind of anonymity to the client.
- Distorting Proxy Server: If the client is detected, this kind of proxy server generates an incorrect original IP address.
- SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) Proxy Server: SSL proxy servers encrypt the data between client and server after which it forwards it to the destination.
- Shared Proxy Server: In a shared proxy server multiple clients can use the same IP address while accessing the Internet.
- Data Center Proxy Server: It is provided by other corporations through a data center that is not affiliated with the ISP. It is suited for clients who want quick responses.
- Public Proxy Server: A public proxy is available to clients free of cost. Since the data can be accessed by other clients, data may not be completely secure.
Proxy Servers Advantages
A Proxy Server is defined as a middleman or gateway between the end-user and the internet. It has its own IP address and provides the role of separating the client system and web server from the global network. Sometimes, there is a requirement to access the internet (network) without exposing one’s IP address (Identity). This is where the proxy servers are used. Proxy servers provide access to the internet after concealing the IP address of the user. In simple terms, the proxy server allows a person to access the internet with an alternate IP address.