A proxy server handles requests from clients asking for resources from another server. The requests may be for resources, such as files, web pages, or other resources from different servers. If the request is validated, the proxy server retrieves the resource and sends it to the requesting client. There are many types of proxy; they share the common purpose of acting as intermediaries to facilitate requests between clients and target servers.
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Proxy servers are defined by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) at
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Proxy server connections are specified by the W3C at
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People who work for large organizations are probably familiar with the process of configuring their web browser, or other desktop applications that require Internet access to connect through a proxy. The proxy provides them with access to the Internet, while the network firewall protects the devices inside their network from intrusions.