An online proxy server acts as an intermediary between a web browser and a website, allowing users to bypass firewalls and remain anonymous. While many are free, some require a fee and may display advertisements. Additional features may include anonymous email and forums for online safety.
An online proxy server acts as an intermediary between a web browser and a website. Basically, the proxy server receives a request from the user’s web browser and then fetches and displays the requested website. By using an online proxy server, the user is anonymous with respect to the website he is visiting. The user can also bypass firewalls and other applications that may try to block the requested website. Firewalls are common in schools and workplaces, not only for blocking pornographic websites, but games, social networking websites, and more.
To put it simply, an online proxy server is a website that displays another website when requested. While it serves multiple purposes, its primary purpose is often to bypass firewalls and parental control filters. Some people also use it to access websites, such as forums, from which they have been banned. Other people use proxies to browse websites that they don’t want to appear in their web browsing history.
An online proxy server is often an easy way to access normally restricted websites; that’s nothing new to many students and employees around the world. However, many educational institutions and workplaces are catching on and getting smarter about blocking websites. For example, you can block an online proxy server using the same method to block potentially restricted websites accessed by students or employees. Once the proxy is blocked, a person must find a new proxy or other way around the block.
While a significant number of online proxies are free, some proxies require a monthly fee. Sometimes these pay-to-use proxies load websites faster because fewer people are using them at the same time and the owner has more money to spend on improving the website. Another disadvantage of using free online proxy server websites is the typical display of advertisements. In some cases, the displayed website is surrounded by advertisements, which helps keep the proxy free. Even so, many people who routinely use a proxy refrain from purchasing a monthly subscription.
A website that offers proxy services might also offer similar services, such as anonymous email and link anonymization. Another popular feature of proxy websites is a forum for sharing ideas on how to stay safe online, prevent identity theft, and browse anonymously. These extra tools and features may or may not be free, depending on the proxy.
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