What role do web proxies play in the context of internet access?

Web proxies serve as intermediaries in the communication between users and the internet, facilitating requests for web content. When a user initiates a request to access a website, that request is sent to the web proxy first. The proxy then communicates with the target website to retrieve the requested content on behalf of the user. This role of acting as an intermediary allows proxies to manage and control internet access, influencing how data flows between the user and the internet.

The function of web proxies includes multiple capabilities, such as filtering, caching, and providing security features. However, their primary role emphasizes their position as intermediate hosts. By serving this function, web proxies can enhance user privacy, monitor activities, or enforce corporate policies regarding internet usage. This aspect is crucial in managing and controlling internet traffic effectively within an organization or for individual users.

The other functions associated with web proxies, such as providing security against malware, filtering content, and caching data, are significant but derive from their main role as intermediaries. These capabilities often stem from their function of handling requests and responses between users and web servers.