What Are the Differences Between a Proxy and a Proxy Server?

By: Charles Salmon

A proxy is a common term that is now used by many internet users. In English, proxy refers to a person, who is authorized to act for some other person. In simple words, the action needed to be done by one person can be done by another person without revealing his identity. The meaning of proxy varies with the context.

Proxy and proxy server are two terms used by intermediate internet users. A proxy refers to a website, which can be used to blocked information. In other words, without any limits, you can get access to any information over the internet with the use of proxy websites. These proxy websites are simply called as proxies. Proxy server is an intermediate server, which handles data sharing between a client and a server. Any data shared between the client and the server should pass proxy servers. Proxy websites are designed to fool proxy servers.

Almost all offices and educational institutions install a proxy server, which acts as a firewall. Internet connection to various computers within the building is provided only through the proxy server. Every piece of information, which passes through the proxy server, is logged. This way, the officials can control the internet access of their subordinates or students. A firewall is installed within a proxy server, which restricts access to many websites. In most of the cases, many known entertainment and adult websites are blocked by proxy servers.

Proxies are designed to get access to any website of the user's choice without getting caught by the proxy server. When you use a proxy website, your identity is concealed and the website, which you want to access, is also hidden. These proxy websites are allowed by proxy servers and you can get any information you wish. You can access many blocked websites from your office or school using proxy websites.

Proxy servers are used to control internet access in the workplace. Apart from blocking websites, proxy servers are used to provide a safe and secure browsing environment. All information passing via proxy servers can be analyzed before they reach any terminal. This feature is used to block spyware and other viruses from affecting a user's computer too. To enhance network security and access control, proxy servers are used. When the network connects a huge number of computers, use of proxy servers becomes essential to have a centralized access to the internet.

A proxy hides your identity and lets you surf the internet without revealing your IP address. Proxies are now used by many users, who wish to conceal their identity and escape from invaders. Anonymous browsing is now possible with the use of proxies. Proxies for social networking sites are now found all over the internet because people want to use social networking sites when they are at work. While the topic of using proxy to overrule access control is a controversial point, you can use these proxies as long as your proxy server identifies and blocks proxies.