Why you should use a proxy server
What is a proxy server?
A proxy server is an intermediary computer that acts as the intercessor between your computer and the internet. A proxy server allows the user’s computer to make indirect connections to other network services. If you are using a proxy server to access the internet, your computer will first connect to the proxy and request access to other network resources such as games, web pages, and e-books, which are accessible on different servers on the internet. The proxy will get the request and look for the cache’s resources in its local hard disk. If what you are requesting has been cashed before, the proxy server will return the cache to your computer. However, if this is a new request, the proxy server will connect to the applicable servers and demand resources on behalf of your computer. It will send the information from the direct servers and return the future request for the same content directly. Below are some significant reasons why you should consider using a proxy server:
Proxies help you hide your IP address.
A proxy is a middleman between you and the internet. When using a proxy server, only the proxy IP address will be visible as your IP Address will be hidden. Your IP address contains a lot of information about you, such as your home address, country, and city. If hackers get your IP address, they can hack into your system and access other confidential information such as your bank details, names, and social security numbers. A hidden IP address means you are surfing anonymously, and your system is secure, giving you complete online security.
Proxies will filter malicious websites.
Many organizations use proxies to filter out malicious websites suspected of containing viruses and malware. The proxy server’s admin will control users’ access to these websites, thus ensuring that the organization’s systems and confidential information are safe. If a site is suspected to be malicious, the admin can block it immediately. This filtering feature allows you to protect yourself from hackers who use websites to phish for information.
Proxies can give you parental control.
If you are a parent, you don’t want your child accessing specific sites such as adult sites. You can use proxies to give you control to restrict your children from accessing these sites. Proxies will allow you to filter the websites, giving you full control of your child’s online activities. Other than parents, learning institutions can also use proxies to track student’s online movements.
Using a proxy server will grant you access to restricted sites.
While browsing, you might notice some sites are restricted due to copyright issues or geographic location. Websites scan your IP address’ location before allowing you to access them; thus, it will block your IP address if it’s not within the stipulated geographic location. Using a proxy server, you will be able to access all these blocked and restricted websites.
Proxy servers offer faster speed and short loading time.
Proxy servers compress internet traffic, thus saving you a lot of time. When the network is busy due to heavy internet traffic, proxy servers free up the bandwidth, thus optimizing your loading time and internet speed. Organizations can use proxy servers to increase employee productivity by reducing time wasted due to slow connections and significant website loading.
Proxy servers offer great personal and business benefits such as prevention of hacking and advanced level of online security. When using a proxy server, your IP address will be hidden, allowing you to browse anonymously and access even contents and websites that are geo-restricted. Internet proxies are the best for an optimized online browsing experience.