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Difference between Forward Proxy and Reverse Proxy

Last Updated : 08 Aug, 2025
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Proxies play an important role in managing data flow between clients and servers. Both forward proxies and reverse proxies are used in different ways to help control and optimize this flow.

  • Forward Proxy: Acts on behalf of the client to enhance privacy and control access.
  • Reverse Proxy: Acts on behalf of the server to optimize performance and security.
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Forward Vs Reverse Proxy

Here is a detailed comparison of Forward and Proxy Proxy based on various features:

Forward ProxyReverse Proxy
Acts on behalf of the client to control access and enhance privacy.Acts on behalf of the server to optimize performance and improve security.
Sits between the client and the internet.Sits between the internet and the server.
The client is aware of the proxy and must configure it.The client is typically unaware of the proxy.
The client needs to configure their device to use the proxy.The server is configured to use the reverse proxy.
Bypassing content filters, controlling access, privacy enhancement.Load balancing, caching, DDoS protection, SSL offloading.
Intercepts requests from the client to the internet and forwards them.Intercepts requests from the internet and forwards them to the appropriate server.
Can cache content on the client side to improve response times.Can cache server responses to reduce load and speed up content delivery.
Does not typically handle SSL/TLS encryption.Can handle SSL/TLS offloading, easing encryption/decryption tasks for the server.

What is a Forward Proxy?

A forward proxy (also called a "proxy server") is a server that sits between client devices and the internet. When a client sends a request to access a website or online resource, the request is directed to the forward proxy first. The proxy then forwards the request to the destination server on behalf of the client.

Usage of Forward Proxy

  • Enhancing client anonymity
  • Accessing geo-blocked or restricted content
  • Content filtering and monitoring in organizations
  • Reducing bandwidth consumption through caching
  • Logging and tracking user activity for compliance

What is a Reverse Proxy?

A reverse proxy works the opposite of a forward proxy. While a forward proxy acts on behalf of the client, a reverse proxy acts on behalf of the server. It is used to protect and manage servers by ensuring that clients do not directly communicate with the origin server.

Use Cases of Reverse Proxy

  • Load balancing across multiple web servers
  • Caching content to improve server performance
  • Protecting backend servers from direct exposure to the internet
  • SSL/TLS offloading to improve server efficiency
  • Mitigating DDoS attacks and enhancing security

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