proxy server

American  

[prok-see sur-ver] / ˈprɒk si ˌsɜr vər /

noun

Computers.

1. a server that receives requests, filters them, and forwards them to a network on behalf of another computer or network which it represents under a surrogate IP address: used to provide anonymity or increased security or to carry out intermediate processing.

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proxy server British  

noun

1. computing a computer that acts as an intermediary between a client machine and a server, caching information to save access time

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Etymology

Origin of proxy server

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Typically, a proxy server is configured per application, whereas a VPN applies to your entire connection, regardless of the app used.

From Salon • Nov. 26, 2025

I’m using a proxy server that a friend, who’s been using it for work, just opened up for the rest of us in a Telegram tech group.

From The Verge • Apr. 17, 2018

Most users don’t employ a proxy server, so if you see the browser is configured for one, try removing it.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 29, 2016

The 20-year-old from Nottingham is believed to have been running a proxy server that connected to addresses banned by service providers in the UK.

From BBC • Aug. 7, 2014

Rather than directly accessing the original Web page in its original language, users can instead indirectly access the page via a proxy server offering translation features.

From Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) Ruling by United States District Court For The Eastern District Of Pennsylvania