How does a proxy server function in relation to internet browsing?

A proxy server functions as an intermediary for web requests, which means it sits between the user's device and the web server they are trying to reach. When a user makes a request to access a website, the request is sent to the proxy server, which then forwards it to the appropriate web server. The web server processes the request and sends the response back to the proxy server, which then delivers it to the user.

This intermediary role provides several benefits, such as anonymity for users since the web server sees the proxy's IP address instead of the user's, and it can also cache content to improve loading times for frequently accessed resources. Essentially, a proxy server streamlines web traffic by managing requests and responses efficiently.