Basically, a proxy server is the middle-man or gateway between you and the web. Let’s imagine you lived in 18th century Britain and you had a favor or request to ask of the queen. You’d have to tender your request to the monarch’s right-hand man who would then relay it to her.

In this case, a proxy server is the right-hand man to the internet. It is the intermediary through which internet traffic flows to and from the web address you requested. The server also forwards any data received from the web address to you. 

Here’s one question most people ask: why use a proxy server instead of simply going straight to the website? It’s simple.

Proxy servers do much more than you think. Apart from acting as a gateway, they also provide security and privacy. The typical modern proxy server acts as a firewall and provides cache data to boost speed when processing common requests.

What’s there not to love?

Just before you hop right into choosing a proxy, it is important to note that there are different kinds of them. Knowing how each one works will help you choose the right server for your needs. Here’s a list of the different types of proxies:

1 . TRANSPARENT PROXY

This is one of the most popular types of proxy servers out there. In fact, you could even call this server “the singing bird”. Here’s why: this proxy lets websites know that it is a proxy server and identifies you to the web server by forwarding your IP address. A lot of businesses, schools and even public libraries use this proxy because it is quite easy to set up.

2. ANONYMOUS PROXY

An anonymous proxy offers anonymity - just like the name implies. It does not forward your IP address to the sites you visit. This helps to reduce the risk of identity theft and also helps to cloak your browsing habits. Do you get frustrated each time you see something like: “Hot chicks in your area” pop up on your screen?

If you hate coming across location-based marketing content, you would definitely love this type of proxy. This is because it can prevent a site from aiming marketing content at you. For instance, if a news website knows your location, they will send you stories relevant to your area.

Interesting Read : Comparing‌ ‌Best‌ ‌Proxy‌ ‌Services‌ ‌in‌ 2020

However, an anonymous server lowers the chances of sites using certain ad targeting techniques. 

3. HIGH ANONYMITY PROXY

This is one of the most secure ways to browse the web. A High Anonymity proxy server frequently changes the IP address it presents to the web server. This makes it hard and almost impossible to track the direction of the traffic. 

4. DISTORTING PROXY

This one works almost like an anonymous proxy but with a slight twist. Instead of completely cloaking your IP address, it passes along a fake address, making it seem like you’re working from a different location. If you’re surfing through a site that has content restrictions, this server will come in handy.

Just in case you’re still in doubt as to the benefits of a proxy server, here’s why you need one:

1 . For improved security: This is probably an obvious statement to make, but the internet isn’t safe anymore. It’s a crazy zone out there, and if you aren’t careful, you might fall prey to hackers. Fortunately, proxy servers can encrypt web requests to provide improved security. They can equally prevent any known malware sites from gaining access to your device.

2. Privacy: No one likes being spied on. If you’re constantly viewing confidential information on the web, you definitely need a proxy to browse more privately. Some proxy servers can either cloak your IP address completely or change it in order to keep you anonymous. 

Interesting Read : The Best Nike Proxy Providers of 2020

3. To control internet usage: If you’re a parent or an employer, you may feel the need to monitor how your children or employees use the internet. Sometimes, kids may be exposed to harmful content when they surf the web. Similarly, some employees could use the company’s network to look at other websites. With a proxy server, you can easily deny them access to specific websites. You can also keep track of all web requests and see what sites they have been visiting.  

4. To circumvent restrictions: Have you ever come across a website that you couldn't access due to restrictions placed on your location? Such a bummer, isn't it? Well, proxy servers can easily change your location, making it possible for you to access restricted content. For instance, if you’re trying to bypass internet censorship and watch restricted YouTube videos, you can use a YouTube proxy instead.

Ready to choose a proxy? Here are some tips you should keep in mind when making a choice:

1 . DECIDE WHAT TYPE OF PROXY YOU NEED

As stated earlier, there are different types of proxy servers. You only need to select one that best suits your needs. However, it is important to note that each type of proxy has its pros and, of course, cons. Determine what you need a proxy for in order to avoid choosing the wrong type for your needs.

2. CHOOSE A RELIABLE SELLER 

If you’re looking to buy proxy servers, you’d definitely be bombarded by tons of companies and businesses who sell them. However, not all of these companies are legitimate. Some may sell low-quality proxies that don't get the job done at all. 

As such, it is important to stick to only legitimate and reliable companies that offer high-quality servers at great prices.  

3. CONSIDER THE PRICE

Pricing is pretty important when it comes to choosing a proxy server. It might not be at the top of the list, but it’s definitely one factor you need to consider. The first thing to note is that it can be difficult to get a free proxy server that works just as well as paid ones. There's an old saying that states that you can't get anything good for free. 

Well, while this saying might not be entirely true, it definitely holds water when it comes to proxies. If you ever come across a free proxy, there’s a high chance that it’d come with encryption and security risks. 

Although pricing is important, you shouldn’t base your decision solely on this factor. Some proxy servers may seem pretty expensive but are worth the cost. Simply look out for a proxy whose price matches its performance.

4. CHECK OUT USER REVIEWS 

What are other users saying about it? Finding out what other users have to say about a proxy provider will help you make the right choice. However, there’s a slight hitch. Where do you get genuine user reviews from?

You could stumble upon a gleaming review only to find out much too late that it’s a fake one. Well, to avoid this scenario, go on popular forums like Quora where users share their personal experiences. This way, you’d be able to get genuine feedback that’d guide your decision.

5. TAKE A LOOK AT THE PROXY PROVIDER’S DASHBOARD

This may seem like an inconsequential factor at first glance. Why on earth do you have to consider the provider’s dashboard before buying a proxy server? It’s simple. No one wants to have to contact Customer Support just because they need to see usage statistics or buy additional proxies.

Check to see if the provider offers a dashboard, as well as various dashboard features. This way, you’d get to enjoy a seamless experience.