What is HTTP proxy?

An HTTP proxy acts as an intermediary between a client (e.g., a web browser) and a server (e.g., a web server). When a client makes a request, the proxy intercepts it and forwards it to the server. The server's response is then sent back to the client through the proxy. Proxies are commonly used for various purposes, including: improving security (by masking the client's IP address), content filtering, caching to improve performance, bypassing geographical restrictions, and monitoring network traffic.