# proxy server

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/proxy-server
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a computer that acts as a middleman between your device and the internet. It hides your real location and can help you access websites that might be blocked in your area.

For teachers: an intermediary server that sits between a client application and a destination server to facilitate requests. It functions by intercepting network traffic to provide anonymity, security, or administrative control over web access.

## Examples

- I use a proxy server to browse the internet more privately.
- The company routes all employee internet traffic through a proxy server to block dangerous websites and monitor bandwidth usage.
- By masking the client's original IP address, a proxy server allows researchers to bypass regional content restrictions and observe how localized algorithms display information across different jurisdictions.

## Usage notes

- Often shortened to 'proxy' in technical contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.