“What is a proxy server?” you may ask. Explained to a 9-year-old, it’s like a mask.
You may have heard someone on the internet mention a proxy. “What is a proxy?” you may ask. Are you Googling “proxy explained for dummies?” Well, we have the answer.
In this blog, we have proxy explained in a way that a 9-year-old can understand. So, if you are not tech-savvy but want to learn about proxies, this blog is for you.
What Is a Proxy?
A proxy is like a mask. If a mask is used to cover your face, a proxy is used to cover your computer, figuratively.
Just like how other people can identify you by looking at your face, your computer also has a unique feature called an IP address. If a mask can make you look anonymous, so does a proxy.
What Is a Proxy Server Used for?
Now that you have understood what a proxy is, here are a few advantages of a proxy for your computer like a mask for your face.
Privacy
When you wear a mask, your face is covered, and people hardly recognize you. This is the same case when you use a proxy. Your computer is shielded from the detection of hackers, allowing you to surf the web safely.
Bypassing Blocks
Imagine someone not wanting you to go to their private party, wearing a mask can help you fake an identity and give you some anonymity to sneak into that party easily. A proxy can help you sneak through those guards on the internet to access their secured content that they do not want you to see.
Accessing Geo-restricted Content
This one is a little tricky. But do you know that some people can tell where a person comes from based on their facial features? The internet can also do that with your computer’s IP address. On the internet, there is some content that is restricted based on your geographical information. This is called geo-blocking. So again, just like a mask, a proxy gives you anonymity to bypass these blocks.
Proxies, like masks, cover your identity to make you become anonymous.
Risks When Using a Proxy
A mask is a great tool for protecting your face, but that does not mean it cannot be used in the wrong way. Using a proxy contains some risks that you may need to be aware of.
Legal Consequences
Just like how some people can use masks to cover their faces when committing a wrongful action, like in a robbery or a home invasion, some people use proxies with no-good intentions. These include hacking, stealing someone’s identity, or sharing files without the permission of the owner. Make sure you do not use your proxies for illegal actions as they could lead to very serious consequences. If in doubt, check the law of your country to avoid unwanted legal repercussions.
Security Threats
Not only does a poorly made mask fail to protect you, but it can also cause you harm. For example, the material or the dye used to create the mask could be toxic. Similarly, a proxy from a non-reputable provider can carry malware or expose your computer to other dangers on the internet.
Conclusion
What is a proxy? In short, a proxy is like a mask. It can function to your computer just like how a mask can help you cover your face.
Of course, this is a just simplified analogy to have the proxy explained in the most digestible way possible. In fact, it can do much more.
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