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A proxy server verifies and forwards incoming client requests to other servers for further communication. A proxy server is located between a client and a server where it acts as an intermediary between the two, such as a Web browser and a Web server. If a third-party proxy service is in use they can be dangerous to use due to the amount of trust needed for the remote server. It is possible for the proxy server to work and also steal user data while providing service.
A proxy server is used for many purposes, including:
- To provide internal system security
- To speed up resource access
- To apply access policies for tracking organizational Internet use or assessing employee progress.
- To bypass special controls, such as parental or security controls
- To scan for viruses and malware
- To circumvent regional restrictions
- To allow websites to make requests to externally hosted resources when cross-domain restrictions prohibit websites from linking to outside domains