Proxy server

Proxy Server is the server that helps users to connect the internet. It is another way to connect the internet. In an organisation it is the easiest way to provide the safe and filtered internet connection by using the Proxy Server. This helps users surf the internet on their machine. This is one of the popular way as well because in this we just need to configure the proxy server IP address on user machine. This will automatically redirect all the web browser http and https traffic to the internet. 

This proxy server act as a mediator in between internet and users machine like in above picture. All http and https traffic generated by the user machine is first redirect to the configured proxy server IP and then Proxy server let this initiate new connection to its end to the internet with having proxy server IP address in its source. 

Advantages of Proxy Server Proxy server has multiple benefits like 

Security: Proxy Server provides security between internet and system. They help your system from unauthorized user to access your network. 

Saves Bandwidth: A proxy server can save bandwidth, especially in those environments where the same resources are accessed by multiple users. 

Performance: Proxy server improves performance, when a person requests for a resource, then the proxy can serve it from its cache rather than fetching it from the original server this helps to increase performance. 

Filtrations: Proxy servers are used to filter content based on keywords or file types. 

Access Control: There are some content which is restricted in various countries, so proxy server helps to control geographical access.

How to check and configure Proxy in windows machine.

1. Access Windows Settings

• Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard.

2. Navigate to Network & Internet

• In the Settings window, click on "Network & internet". 

3. Go to Proxy

• In the left-hand menu, select "Proxy". 

4. Enable Manual Proxy Setup

• Under "Manual proxy setup", toggle the switch for "Use a proxy server" to the "On" position. 

5. Enter Proxy Server Details

• In the "Address" field, enter the IP address or hostname of your proxy server. 
• In the "Port" field, enter the port number used by your proxy server.  

6. (Optional) Configure Authentication

• If your proxy server requires authentication:
  • Check the box for "Proxy server requires a password".
  • Enter your username and password in the respective fields. 

7. Save Changes

• Click the "Save" button to apply your proxy settings. 

Testing Your Proxy Configuration

• Open a web browser and try to visit a website.
• If the website loads successfully, your proxy configuration is working correctly.

Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues with your proxy configuration, double-check the proxy server address and port, verify your authentication credentials, and ensure that the proxy server is running and accessible.