NSW DET Proxy

A proxy server is responsible for acting as an intermediary between a client and a destination server, handling requests and responses on behalf of the client. Its primary functions include:

1. Access control: A proxy server can be configured to control access to certain resources or websites based on user authentication, IP address, or other criteria. This can help organizations enforce access policies and restrict access to inappropriate or unauthorized content.

2. Caching: Proxy servers can cache frequently accessed content, such as web pages, images, and other files, to improve performance and reduce the load on the destination server. This can result in faster response times for clients accessing previously cached content.

3. Anonymity and privacy: By routing requests through a proxy server, a client can maintain anonymity and privacy. The proxy server's IP address appears as the source of the request, rather than the client's IP address, which can help protect the client's identity and location.

4. Content filtering: Proxy servers can be configured to filter and block certain types of content, such as malicious websites, adult content, or specific keywords. This can help organizations maintain a safe and secure browsing environment for their users.

5. Performance optimization: Proxy servers can optimize performance by compressing data, using content delivery networks (CDNs), or implementing load balancing techniques. This can result in faster load times and improved user experience.

6. Protocol translation: In some cases, proxy servers can translate between different communication protocols, allowing clients to access resources using a different protocol than the destination server supports.

7. Security: Proxy servers can provide additional security by encrypting data transmitted between the client and the destination server, protecting sensitive information from being intercepted or tampered with during transmission.

To connect to the Internet via a proxy server, you need to configure your browser or operating system to use the proxy server. Here's a general guide for setting up a proxy server using a web browser:

1. Open your web browser.

2. Access the browser settings or preferences:
- On Windows: Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select "Settings."
- On macOS: Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner, select "System Preferences," and click "Network."
- On Linux: Click the menu button in the top-right corner, select "Settings," and click "Network."
- On Android: Open the "Settings" app and tap "Network & internet."
- On iOS: Open the "Settings" app and tap "Wi-Fi."

3. Locate the proxy settings:
- On Windows: Under "Network," click "Proxy settings."
- On macOS: Click the "Advanced" button and go to the "Proxies" tab.
- On Linux: Click the "+" button to add a new proxy.
- On Android: Tap "Private DNS" and "Static IP address" under "Advanced options."
- On iOS: Tap "Configure Proxy" under the active Wi-Fi network.

4. Enter the proxy server address, port, and authentication details (if required):
- Proxy server address: Enter the domain name or IP address of the proxy server (e.g., http://proxy-server).
- Port: Enter the port number used by the proxy server (e.g., 8080).
- Username and Password (optional): If the proxy server requires authentication, enter the username and password provided by the proxy server provider.

5. Save the proxy settings and restart the browser.

Open the browser settings and go to the "Advanced" section. Click on "System" and then, in the window that opens, click on "Open proxy settings for computer". A window will appear in front of you, showing all the current settings. Another way to find out the http proxy is to download and install the SocialKit Proxy Checker utility on your computer.

VPN allows you to hide your real IP address, as well as further encrypt your traffic. VPN is also actively used for address spoofing. For example, the user is in the Russian Federation, but by connecting through a VPN server, the site "thinks" that the user is from the United States.

And it depends on what purpose the proxy is used for. But you should definitely give preference to paid proxies. They are more reliable, always available, and with that comes a guarantee of privacy. Unfortunately, personal data is often stolen from free proxies.