Proxy

A proxy is an intermediary instance that accepts a client's requests and forwards them to the target system on the client's behalf. This interrupts the direct connection and allows traffic to be controlled, filtered and logged. A distinction is made between a forward proxy, which manages outbound client access to the internet, and a reverse proxy, which distributes inbound requests to internal servers and frequently handles TLS termination, caching and load balancing. Further functions include web filtering, virus scanning, authentication and caching of frequently requested content. Proxies are deployed in corporate networks to enforce usage policies, protect web applications and reduce load on backend systems. Considerations include the impact on encrypted connections as well as data protection and logging requirements.