A proxy is a server that sits between a client and server and mediates the request. This mediator handles the communication between the sender and receiver in many different ways.
Transparent proxy:
A transparent proxy acts without a user's knowledge. This proxy sits between a client and server without modifying the client's request, however, it logs and monitors request activity. Places such as schools or workplaces use this proxy.
Distorting proxy:
Similar to an anonymous proxy, Distorting proxies utilize their IP address instead of the user's IP however, it identifies as a proxy server request. The receiving server can identify the requesting proxy server. Market researchers for example use an anonymous proxy when collecting research data.
Anonymous proxy:
Also known as an elite proxy. This proxy does everything as a distorting proxy however it hides the requesting user's identity by stripping out all user info from the request. This proxy acts and resembles the client as opposed to a proxy server. Users in high-risk countries performing content searches or nefarious actions use this proxy.
Besides the above-mentioned proxies have many uses:
While proxy servers offer advantages there are also disadvantages:
Proxy and load balancer behave similarly but differ overall. While a proxy may use a load balancer, a load balancer by itself is not a proxy
VPN: A VPN is a type of Anonymous proxy located in a different geographical location from the user. VPN's make requests on the user's behalf to access geo-restricted content such as Netflix shows or apps in different countries.
CDN: A CDN is a transparent, reverse proxy, service. The CDN intercepts and forwards requests on the user's behalf before hitting the primary server.