Forward Proxy (Client-Side)
A forward proxy sits between clients (you) and the internet. You configure your device to send traffic through it. It hides your IP from websites and is used for privacy, access control, and content filtering. This is what most people mean when they say "proxy."
Reverse Proxy (Server-Side)
A reverse proxy sits between the internet and a web server. It receives incoming requests and distributes them to backend servers. It provides load balancing, SSL termination, caching, and DDoS protection. Examples: Nginx, Cloudflare, HAProxy.
Key Differences
Forward proxy: configured by the client, hides client IP, used for privacy. Reverse proxy: configured by the server, hides server details, used for performance and security. They serve opposite purposes despite the similar name.
Real-World Examples
Forward: MasarWeb web proxy, corporate content filters, school network blocks. Reverse: Cloudflare CDN, Nginx load balancers, AWS ALB. Most websites you visit use a reverse proxy without you knowing.
How They Work Together
In enterprise setups, both types are used. A forward proxy handles outbound traffic (employee browsing), while a reverse proxy handles inbound traffic (public-facing website). Together they provide comprehensive network control.