Blocking internet access and certain resources has become a very common practice among companies, educational institutions, and organizations. However, by using a proxy server that directs intermediary web traffic , it is possible to access blocked pages without much difficulty.
Simply put, a proxy is a tool that allows you to intercept and manage traffic between networks, devices, or protocols. This type of server acts as an intermediary between users and internet services such as firewalls, filters, and others.
The proxy server acts as a proxy for users during internet traffic, helping them access pages and ensuring greater security. However, it's in the company's interest to ensure employees are more productive online , avoiding distractions and loss of performance. In this sense, is it possible to replace this tool with a more efficient and secure resource?
To answer this question, we've prepared comprehensive material with everything you need to know about this tool and the alternative resources that can help your business increase profitability and achieve superior results.
Proxy Server: How does it work?
Translated from English, proxy refers to a power of attorney, meaning the proxy server acts as an authority representing the user in the digital environment. It's a widely used privacy tool , establishing a bridge between you and internet resources.
This happens as follows: when a user attempts to access a website through a device, such as a computer, tablet, or cell phone, the browser sends a request to the server for that page, which returns the request with the data for the page being accessed. Without a proxy server, communication occurs directly between the user and internet resources. Learn more about how this information exchange works in practice:
In this sense, the proxy server acts as a bridge or third party in this interaction, mediating communication between these two main parties. In this case, the proxy server sends the request and returns the correct information to the user.
To help you understand the proxy server's role in this process, we'll use a simplified analogy: the IP address you use to browse and conduct your online activities is like a home address . It's through this information that resources, tools, and websites will know how to find you in the digital world and deliver the requested service.
However, exposing this address can also be a risk, facilitating cybercriminal activity. Using a proxy, your IP address will not be exposed , allowing your browsing to be more secure. This is because web pages, servers, and tools will report to the proxy's IP address rather than the user's IP address.
This tool can be used in a variety of ways, serving as a security feature that creates a barrier between the internet and the network. It can block network access, unwanted access, or malicious behavior . The proxy can be used in a variety of ways, including:
- DNS Firewall;
- Content filter;
- Traffic blocking;
- IP hiding;
- Cashing (temporary storage of data from frequently accessed pages to optimize performance);
- Among other applications.
However, one of the main drawbacks of using a proxy as a server is its high complexity and the need for technical expertise to manage it . To successfully use a proxy, a company needs a team prepared to handle this type of resource, which can generate additional costs for the business .
Due to their characteristics, many people confuse a proxy with a VPN server . Although a VPN also acts as an intermediary server for connecting to the internet, it also encrypts all information exchanged between the server and devices.
Proxy Types
Depending on the usage, there are different categories of proxy that can be applied according to the user's needs, such as:
Web Proxy
This type of proxy typically operates in conjunction with a browser. Using encrypted and unencrypted connections, it can act as an intermediary between users and internet resources. However, it requires a certain level of technical knowledge and can be prone to errors, as it can display content that relies on plugins, JavaScript, and other resources.
HTTP Proxy Server
The main purpose of this server is to improve connection quality by analyzing visited pages. Based on this information, the proxy server can determine an appropriate network usage profile . To achieve this, it stores data locally, maintaining network performance even when demand is high.
SSL Proxy Server
This proxy allows users to access the internet using the SSL (Secure Socket Layer) protocol , encrypting all connections. This server is widely used for operations involving sensitive data, such as payments, transfers, confidential data, and more.
Alternative tools to Proxy
As we've seen, a proxy acts as an intermediary layer between internet connections. However, due to its characteristics and limitations, it may not be the best tool for your business needs. Especially when it comes to blocking web pages and resources, a proxy may not be the best solution .
Below are some alternatives to this solution to ensure the best resources for access control and security for your company:
pfSense
pfSense is an efficient and robust solution, one of the leading open-source tools on the market. Functioning as a firewall, it can increase security and provide more efficient connections. However, although it's a free tool, it 's also complex and difficult to use , making it not recommended for lay users unfamiliar with such features.
This tool can also be used as a valuable ally in controlling internet access. pfSense can be installed directly on a dedicated device and applied to protect networks and computers against external threats . It also offers many additional features, such as VPN, load balancing, network monitoring, secure remote access, and more. Because of these features, it's a more complete and secure tool, especially compared to a proxy.
DNS Filter
The DNS ( Domain Name System ) is responsible for mapping domain names to IP addresses. DNS Filter uses this feature to block malicious pages and filter inappropriate or dangerous content . This allows for increased security and more assertive control of a company's networks and resources.
The biggest disadvantage of this tool is that it's a foreign resource and requires payment in US dollars, making it a very high investment for companies. As a content filter, DNS Filter can contribute to more intelligent monitoring of online activity, helping companies keep their employees safe from online problems .
Lumiun Box
Lumiun offers a comprehensive tool for companies of all sectors and sizes looking to increase security in their digital environment. One of these tools is Lumiun Lumiun Box , a robust and comprehensive tool for complete control of a company's internet . With firewall tools, traffic and speed management, a business VPN, and comprehensive reports , Lumiun Box has gained strong traction in the Brazilian market due to its ease of administration and the fact that it offers payments in local currency (R$) , unlike other leading tools on the market.
See some benefits and features of the solution:
- Payment in local currency (R$);
- Simple and intuitive control panel, no technical knowledge required;
- Unified access control, without individual installation of software or hardware;
- Blocking of websites and applications by specific users, groups and times;
- Complete and automated reports;
- Remote access control and security: employees traveling or working from home;
- Among many others.
With the help of this tool, managers can analyze the access profile within the company and establish more assertive control policies in a simple and practical way.
Lumiun DNS
The “little brother” of the Lumiun Box , the Lumiun DNS is a simplified solution for companies looking for a more compact product at a lower price .
With a variety of network management options, including website blocking, categories, and internet protection and security, Lumiun DNS is ideal for networks with a large number of connected devices that require more generic and unified control and security.
Get in touch, get a no-obligation quote , and see which product best suits your needs.
Quality should be a priority in your business
In a scenario where security is a must, relying on tools that help increase the protection of stored and manipulated information is crucial. Numerous cyberattacks can cause immeasurable damage to companies , making it essential to rely on increasingly intelligent and efficient tools and solutions.
For this reason, it's essential to choose tools that meet your business needs comprehensively and intuitively. It's essential to evaluate the cost-benefit of available resources and then determine which one can meet all your needs and provide the highest level of security for your devices and networks.
With so many traps and threats lurking around online data, digital security becomes a priority for companies looking to avoid the losses this type of problem can cause.
Until later!
