Many people of varying computer skill levels have found the value of using a proxy server in order to surf the web to be priceless over the years. From a security standpoint, a proxy server acts like a buffer between your computers and other computers once you make a request for information, such as accessing a website or document, online. As the proxy server acts as a third party between your computer and the systems you are requesting information from, your IP address and other identifiable information is obscured, as it appears that the request is coming straight from the proxy server itself. This helps to throw various website trackers, et cetera, off the trail of your viewing habits, protecting your privacy as you surf the web.
In addition to providing an extra level of privacy, using a proxy server can also yield other security benefits for your computer and network in general. When you request to download files and documents from another computer, the third party buffer feature of your proxy server means that you can easily be alerted when these files contain viruses or malware before they have a chance to infect your system. Many a computer and network in general has been saved by the quarantining functions of a proxy server in such a manner, which is indeed quite an appreciable benefit in the twenty first century.
If you have decided to surf the web via a proxy server from now on, most common internet browsers today are set up to easily allow you to enter the necessary information on your proxy server of choice. These settings are typically very intuitive to use, and you should be up and running with your new proxy server in no time. Finally, make sure that your proxy server of choice is a reputable one. Start a search engine query for the phrase reputable proxy server, and choose one that is known to be safe for the general public.
