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Proxy Servers

What are the benefits of a forward proxy?
- Users can avoid state or institutional browsing restrictions in places that restrict access to parts of the internet
- Administrators can use it block access to certain content within the home or organization
- Users who want protect their identity online can somewhat mask their identity by having a different public-facing IP address
- They can also increase security by providing a layer between the internet and machines with more sensitive content
Explain the differences between a forward and a reverse proxy?
- A forward proxy is on the client side and sits between the internet and the client endpoints
- A reverse proxy is on the host side and sits between the internet and the servers
Explain to your manager why your organization might benefit from implementing a reverse proxy?
- It would increase security by providing a layer between the internet and user endpoints. This creates more work for a potential hacker as they have to successfully navigate more connections. This also increases the time we have to detect and intervene if an attack occurs.
- It could improve productivity through load balancing and caching non-sensitive data that clients need to access frequently.
- It can free up processing power on machines used for business purposes by handling the encryption and decryption functions of traffic going out on the internet.