Proxy

=Proxy= Ellie :D
 * Computer dictionary definition of proxy:** "A process that accepts requests for some service and passes them on to the real server. A proxy may run on dedicated hardware or may be purely software. It may transform the request in some way or provide some additional layer of functionality such as caching or remote access. A proxy may be intended to increase security, e.g. a web proxy that allows multiple clients inside an organisation to access the internet through a single secure, shared connection."

In simpler terms a proxy is a device that sits between the source and destination on computers which provides a variety of functions. One common function is to filter different types of traffic from going back and forth. This is often seen in corporations concerned about protecting their data. In this case a proxy can act as a fire wall providing a company security by blocking unwanted traffic from entering the company network. In the same way this proxy can block traffic that is internal to the company network form going to unwanted destinations such as inappropriate websites. Another common function provided by a proxy is to provide routing for the source traffic to the destination. One reason to provide this type of routing is when computers on a private network (10.0.X.X, 172.16.X.X, 192.168.X.X) share a connection to the internet such as in a home with multiple computers and a single internet connection or in a business office with many computers. The technology the proxy often uses in this case is called NAT(network address translation). A third function provided by a proxy is to authenticate a users identity before letting the traffic pass though. This type of technology is often seen in Wi-Fi hot spots or in hotel rooms where there is a requirement to pay before using the internet. This functionality is very useful as a means to control the use of network connection. A final functionality provide by a proxy is to shield the identity of the source computer from the destination computer. This function is desirable where extra security or anonymous web surfing is required such as air-proxy.com.

1. air-proxy.com 2. squid proxy 3. Microsoft proxy server 4. ISA web proxy