A reverse proxy server is like an intermediary between a group of servers and the clients (like your web browser) that need to use them. Whenever you send a request to a server, whether to load a website or access an app, the reverse proxy handles it. It collects all the client requests and passes them to the right servers. Once the main server/s responds, the reverse proxy then sends those responses back to the clients.
Knowing what a reverse proxy is and how it works plays a key role in improving website performance and security. Read ahead to know more about the reverse proxy server.
But, first, let us understand a Proxy Server
A proxy server, often called a forward proxy, is in front of client devices, like computers or mobile phones. It acts like a bridge between the client devices and the internet or server. The proxy steps in when client devices want to access websites or online services. It intercepts online requests and communicates with web servers on behalf of the clients.
Here is how a proxy server works:
For instance, there are three computers involved in a web request:
- Device A: A user’s home computer
- Device B: The forward proxy server
- Device C: The origin server (where the website’s data is stored)
In a typical forward proxy setup, the traffic flows from the user’s device (A) to the proxy server (B), which then communicates with the origin server (C). Without a proxy, computer A would directly connect to C to send requests and get responses. But with a forward proxy, A sends requests to B, and B forwards them to C. Then, C sends its response back to B, who passes it to A. This adds a layer of anonymity, security, and control over web traffic.
How is a Reverse Proxy Server Different from a Proxy Server?
A reverse proxy is situated on the server side of the client-server connection. Meanwhile, the forward proxy is situated on the client side. So, naturally, when the clients request data from a website, the reverse proxy catches the requests and communicates it to the original server, which sends back the information, which is delivered through reverse proxies to the client.
Businesses use reverse proxies for security purposes. However, there are other reasons behind using a reverse proxy server. Here are some uses of reverse proxy servers:
- A reverse proxy can distribute client requests among several servers, ensuring no single server is overwhelmed, which helps maintain smooth performance during heavy traffic.
- Reverse proxies cache content. This enables them to quickly deliver frequently requested data without reconnecting to the main server each time, speeding up response times.
- A reverse proxy typically acts as a single access point for filtering and routing traffic, simplifying network management, and improving efficiency.
- Reverse proxies can handle SSL encryption and decryption, freeing up the web server from this resource-heavy task and improving overall server performance.
How Does Reverse Proxy Work?
Let us understand reverse proxy, how it works with an example:
- Device D: Multiple users’ home computers
- Device E: The reverse proxy server
- Device F: One or more original servers
In a reverse proxy flow, traffic moves from the user’s device (D) to the reverse proxy server (E), and then from there it flows to the original server (F). Typically, without a reverse proxy, users’ device (D) would send requests directly to the original server (F), and the server would send users’ direct response.
However, with a reverse proxy server in the picture, users’ requests go to the reverse proxy server, which forwards them to the original server. This setup helps with load balancing, security, and caching, making websites more efficient and secure.
Note: You can create your own reverse proxy server if you prefer, and many companies choose to do this. However, working with a service provider that offers reverse proxy solutions can save you a lot of time on development, testing, and setup.
Benefits of Using Reverse Proxy Server
1.Load Balancing
Reverse proxies can distribute traffic across multiple servers, ensuring that no single server becomes overwhelmed. This helps improve user experience, prevent bottlenecks, and keeps the website running smoothly, even during high-traffic periods. Moreover, by distributing traffic among multiple servers, reverse proxies ensure that your servers operate efficiently, which is particularly useful during peak seasons with heavy traffic.
2.Protection from Attacks
A reverse proxy hides the main server’s IP address, making it harder for hackers to target the server directly. All external traffic must pass through the reverse proxy first, which filters out harmful requests, especially if a hacker tries to launch a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack, the reverse proxy becomes the target, shielding the origin server from being overwhelmed. The reverse proxy server distributes a high volume of malicious connection requests across a network of proxy servers, to further mitigate the impact of such attacks. This “mesh” of reverse proxies helps absorb the attack, reducing strain on the server and minimizing disruptions in website loading times.
3.Global Server Load Balancing (GSLB)
Global server load balancing allows traffic to be distributed based on the geographic location of users. This reduces the distance that requests need to travel, which speeds up content delivery for users. Most businesses that have a global audience implement reverse proxies for GSLB, which ensures a fast and responsive experience for users worldwide.
4.Caching
A reverse proxy can handle caching, reducing the need for backend servers to manage it. Since cached content is readily available at the proxy level, it allows users to access frequently requested information faster.
5.SSL Encryption
Handling Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption can be expensive and resource intensive. With a reverse proxy, SSL encryption and decryption can be managed at the proxy itself, offloading this task from the main server and ensuring secure connections with less overhead.
6.Live Activity Monitoring and Logging
Reverse proxies can monitor and log all incoming requests, providing valuable insights into traffic patterns and server performance. This allows businesses to track how well their servers are handling requests and adjust their infrastructure as needed. For example, if an e-commerce site experiences a surge in traffic during a holiday, the reverse proxy can determine if the server can handle the demand and optimize performance accordingly.
ALSO READ: What is a Web Server? Features and How it Works
How to Implement Reverse Proxy Server
Start by defining the purpose of using a reverse proxy-whether it is for tackling high traffic, enhancing security, faster content delivery, or other reasons. The next step is to look for a service provider for reverse proxy. It is recommended to choose a web host that offers both website hosting and reverse proxy because it simplifies integration. After that, you need to perform the following steps:
1.Choose a Reverse Proxy Software
The first step in setting up a reverse proxy server is selecting the right Application Delivery Controller (ADC). You can choose between Alteon, NGINX, Envoy, and HA Proxy. ADCs act as reverse proxies that receive, decrypt, validate and route client requests to the main server and back. Here are some points to keep in mind when selecting an ADC:
- Ease of configuration
- Performance for handling traffic
- Community support for troubleshooting and updates
2.Install and Configure
Once you have chosen an ADC, install the reverse proxy software or device. You can follow the installation instructions provided by the service provider.
Next, configure your DNS settings to point your domain or subdomain to the IP address of your server. This will ensure that all requests for your website are redirected to the reverse proxy server. Then, configure virtual hosts in your reverse proxy server to handle incoming requests for different domains or subdomains. This ensures that each website is correctly routed through the reverse proxy and it forwards client requests to the appropriate backend application servers. Finally, configure your backend servers to handle requests forwarded by the reverse proxy.
3.Testing The Reverse Proxy Setup
After configuring everything:
- Test the reverse proxy by sending requests from a client machine to the reverse proxy’s IP.
- Confirm that the request is correctly forwarded to one of the backend servers and that the response is properly routed back to the client.
- Check for performance issues or misconfigurations that might cause delays or failures.
By following these steps, you can successfully implement a reverse proxy server.
ALSO READ: Web Hosting vs. Server: Meaning, Types and Differences
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding a reverse proxy server and how it works is important for businesses that want to optimize their website for peak performance without compromising on security.
Running an online business yourself? Consider integrating security products, such as SSL Certificate, SiteLock website security, and CodeGuard website backup. They can work seamlessly with a reverse proxy setup and provide you with complete protection against cyber threats while maintaining a smooth and efficient user experience.
Still confused? Refer to our FAQs for more clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.What is the difference between reverse proxy and forward proxy?
A forward proxy is situated on the client side of the client-server connection, preventing clients (computers, mobiles, or other devices) from having direct communication with the internet or server. Reverse proxy, on the other hand, is the opposite of forward proxy. It is on the server side of the client-server connection and passes client requests to the server.
2.Are load balancers and reverse proxy servers the same?
No, a load balancer and a proxy server are not the same. A load balancer is used to divide traffic among multiple servers to produce a better user experience. A reverse proxy server can do this as well, but it also performs other functions like protection against cyberattacks, content caching, and live monitoring that a load balancer cannot.
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