How does a proxy server function?

A proxy server functions by acting as an intermediary for requests made by clients seeking resources from other servers. When a client makes a request for data, the proxy server receives this request and then forwards it to the appropriate destination server. Once the destination server responds, the proxy server relays this information back to the client. This not only helps in managing and filtering traffic but can also enhance security, improve response times, and bypass restrictions.

The role of a proxy server is crucial in various contexts, such as improving privacy by hiding the client’s IP address, caching content to reduce bandwidth usage, and filtering out harmful or unwanted content. By managing requests in this way, a proxy server can effectively streamline data flow and improve overall network performance, which is why this choice accurately captures its primary function.