A proxy, in computer networking, is an intermediary server or application that sits between a client (such as your computer or web browser) and the server providing a resource (such as a website or file). When you use a proxy, your requests for resources are sent to the proxy server first, which then forwards those requests to the destination server. The proxy receives the response and relays it back to you, effectively acting as a go-between for network traffic.
Proxies can mask your IP address, making it harder for destination servers to identify your device or location. By filtering traffic and hiding internal network details, proxies can help protect against cyberattacks and unauthorized access. Proxies can distribute network requests to balance the load across multiple servers, improving performance and reliability. Organizations often use proxies to enforce internet usage policies, block access to certain websites, or monitor traffic. Proxies can store copies of frequently accessed resources, speeding up access and reducing bandwidth usage.