Proxy software can be used for security, content filtering, and hiding user identity. It can scan and filter content, detect unauthorized transmission of data, and route and record email traffic. It also helps in response time and bandwidth management through caching and can be used for anonymous browsing.
Proxy software can be used as a security suite, content filter, intermediate server, and a way to hide user identity. Network users can also use a type of software that looks for proxies to bypass the filtering rules set by the administrator. It can be used to defend or attack the security of computer networks.
When used as part of a network’s security program, proxy software can scan and filter content based on parameters set by the administrator. It can also detect the use of a proxy to send malware or spyware into the system. By masking the IP address of the network and using the antivirus definition, it adds a layer of protection from external threats.
Maintaining the security of data leaving a network is equally important for businesses dealing with sensitive corporate or customer data. Proxy software can detect the unauthorized transmission of personal or confidential information and block the communication or record the incident for management follow-up. Security suites on home computers can use proxy software to monitor traffic in both directions to safeguard the owner’s personal information.
Email servers use proxy software to route and record both local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) traffic. Spam and junk mail are discouraged and sorted according to rules. Broadcast emails are usually handled by a proxy which drops or redirects the response to the email. The “Do Not Respond” disclaimer or opt-out clause on such email indicates the use of proxy software. Networks with large numbers of users can use a proxy to create a general corporate return address for email sent by an individual employee.
The most common use of proxy software is to handle client requests through an intermediary server. When software is used for this purpose, nearly all web traffic goes through a proxy. This helps in response time and bandwidth management through the use of caching. Frequently accessed or static pages are stored on the server and are transmitted to the client using the shortest path.
Being anonymous is a feature many users look for when using proxy software. Customers seeking information from sources that are restricted by workplace or government regulations can use software that looks for proxy servers that will fill the request by presenting an anonymous machine as the requesting user. This can hide an attacker, but in most cases it is used to access material that is considered objectionable for aesthetic or political reasons.
There are legitimate uses for this strategy which may include avoiding tracking by online retailers and ad servers. Users of social networking sites and forums benefit from having control over who actually sees their IP addresses or contact information. It also provides security for people using a shared computer by hiding browsing history and personal information.
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