1. Working principle of forward proxy

The forward proxy server is located between the client and the target server. The client sends a request to the proxy server, and the proxy server sends the request to the target server. The target server sends the response back to the proxy server, and the proxy server returns the response to the client. In this way, the proxy server realizes the relay and forwarding of the communication between the client and the server.

2. For the client

When the client initiates a network request, it only needs to know the address and port number of the proxy server, and does not need to know the specific information of the target server. The communication between the client and the proxy server is transparent, and the client cannot communicate directly with the target server. Because of this, the forward proxy can hide the real IP address of the client and provide a certain degree of anonymity.

3. About the transmission of the real IP address

During the transmission process of the forward proxy, the real IP address of the client will not be transmitted to the target server. The proxy server acts as a middleman to communicate with the target server on behalf of the client. The IP address obtained by the target server is the IP address of the proxy server instead of the real IP address of the client.

4. Leakage of real IP address

Although forward proxy can hide the real IP address of the client, there are still some cases where the real IP address may be leaked.

First, some browsers or applications may bypass the proxy server and communicate directly with the target server, which exposes the real IP address of the client.

Second, if the proxy server is not configured correctly or is hacked, the real IP address of the client may also be obtained.

Therefore, when using a forward proxy, be sure to choose a trustworthy proxy server and take necessary security measures to ensure that the real IP address of the client is not leaked.

5. Other functions and applications

In addition to hiding the real IP address, forward proxy also has other functions and applications. For example, forward proxy can speed up access speed. For target servers distributed in different regions, the proxy server can cache responses and provide faster access; forward proxy can also break through network shielding and access blocked websites.

In summary, forward proxy plays the role of relay and forwarding between the client and the target server. Although forward proxy can hide the real IP address of the client, it is still necessary to pay attention to security issues and choose a trustworthy proxy server. Understanding the working principle and characteristics of forward proxy will help us better understand the application of network proxy technology.