What Key Features Should You Look for When Choosing a Proxy?

To start with the proxy, we should first know what it is, why someone would use it, and what key features you should look for when choosing a proxy. A proxy is a server that acts as a gatekeeper between users trying to access them and the websites they want to enter. In itself, it covers your actual IP address and prevents the specific website from blocking you. At the same time, it acts as a layer of cybersecurity and reduces the possibility of a direct cyberattack from entering your private network.

Some of the key features of Proxy include Safe Browsing, Speed of Network, Full access to geographically restricted areas, and Uptime percentage. We will cover the benefits of each feature going ahead.

The importance of using the correct proxy goes hand in hand with the features and their access, depending on the proxy server you choose. It’s essential to choose the correct parameters when selecting a product. Here’s a guide to help you make the best decision when choosing a Proxy.

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The features of a proxy

Here are some of the main features of a good proxy:

Safe Browsing

Due to the hidden IP address, the user can safely browse the internet without concerns about cyberattacks.

The possibility of data encryption in the configuration settings of more advanced proxy servers can completely protect your privacy from third-party sources.

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The speed of the network

The proxy can cache popular websites, and the user will experience faster speeds and lesser loading times of various websites. One helpful advice is to choose a proxy close to the target location to maximize the speed.

For example, if you want to access the website from Singapore, you can use a South Korean Proxy server (IP address based in Korea). The client can quickly check network speed via Speedtest.

Full access to the geographically restricted content

It is common for websites to limit user access within a specific geographical location. However, using a proxy server allows users from different locations to access websites outside their location.

One such proxy server is K proxy which allows you to access restricted content.

Uptime percentage

The uptime percentage is one of the most important features when choosing a proxy. Uptime percentage refers to the period during which the proxy server is available. Therefore, the higher the percentage equals the higher service quality and proxy availability. This calculator is one of the most valuable tools for measuring the exact time.

The features mentioned above vary from provider to provider. Depending on what you need, you should check for the number of IPs available from the provider, uptime percentage (the preferable number should be as close to 100% as possible), and how safe the browsing is regarding the options the user can customize.

When considering a proxy service, it’s paramount to prioritize safety and reliability. One notable option that aligns with these criteria is MarsProxies, known for its secure connections, high uptime percentage, and efficient features.

Types of proxies

There are many types of proxies for various uses and requirements. The most common ones are Forward Proxy, Reverse Proxy, Full Proxy, and Residential Proxy.

Forward Proxy

A most common form of a proxy server, it accepts connections from devices connected to a private network and channels that request to the public network – the internet.

This proxy must be configured on the computer to access the public network beforehand.

Reverse Proxy

A polar opposite of the Forward Proxy, a Reverse Proxy accepts connections (acts as a gateway) from the clients on the internet and gives them access to the resources on a private network.

A Reverse Proxy does not require any configuration and is readily available to the public.

Full Proxy

A Full Proxy is specific because it maintains two separate connections. On one side, the proxy server connects with the client, while on the other, the proxy is connected to the destination server.

Ultimately, it serves as a two-sided gatekeeper, working with two parties simultaneously.

Residential Proxy

They are also the best proxy because they use real IP addresses. The Residential Proxy allows a client to choose a specific location and act as a real user from that place.

Their appearance is that of a typical user, and it is almost impossible to detect, making it easy for clients to access any data they need.

Free proxies are unreliable

You should avoid free proxy services simply because they do not offer the quality of the paid ones. Their uptime percentage can vary and is very unstable. Their IP addresses may not be valid or working, making their users vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Lastly, the fast browsing speeds are mostly unavailable because the companies that published them did not invest enough resources. In the end, all the crucial features that a good proxy offers are not available for free. But if you are still doubtful about spending money on the proxy server, you can check our list of free proxy services.

FAQs

What is a Proxy Server?

A proxy server is an intermediary between two endpoints, such as a client and a server, to facilitate communication and provide additional security and privacy.

What are the benefits of using a Proxy Server?

1. Proxy ensures that the IP address of clients is kept private and secure. 2. One can access location-specific content without getting restricted. 3. A Proxy server uses web filters that filter the content the client is trying to access, reducing cyberattacks.

What are the demerits of using a proxy server?

1. A Proxy server can cause compatibility issues with applications that require direct connections like VPNs. 2. While caching data can help faster loading, it is also a disadvantage as it may save confidential data. 3. Proxy servers are expensive.

Is proxy server and VPNs the same?

While VPNs guide all internet traffic through an encryption tunnel, Proxy shows only single apps and websites.

Conclusion

Choosing a safe and reliable proxy with many features is crucial to clients’ satisfaction.  Safer browsing to faster network speed, unrestricted content access, and reliable server uptime. All these features are essential for internet surfing without limits. They should present a great guide for new clients who want to test the different proxy servers and choose the best one. Also, some sites cannot be accessed using a proxy. You can learn to disable the proxy Here.