What is a Proxy Server and Why Do I Need One?

Today's digital world is full of personal and business data, and keeping it secure is more important than ever. There is something that helps with this called a proxy server. Proxy servers have come a long way since their early days. They were initially developed to cache websites and conserve bandwidth. They were simple tools that sat between the local network and the internet, offering basic security and network efficiency.

With time, proxy servers became more powerful, secure, and adaptable. Today, proxies offer much more like content filtering, authentication, and faster internet speeds through content caching. Also, they are much easier to deploy and manage compared to their predecessors.  

So why do you need one?  

Imagine you own a small local store, and you need to order supplies. You would order it from a warehouse, but instead of ordering directly, you would hire a messenger who does all the talking for you. You tell the messenger what you need, and they go to warehouse, pick up the supplies, and bring them back to your store. Which means the warehouse only talks to the messenger and does not know that the store owner is the one who placed the order.  

In this case, a messenger would be your proxy server. 

In the online world, your computer is the local store owned by you, and the warehouse is a website or a service that you are trying to reach. The proxy server is the messenger who sends your request, gets the information you need, and brings it back to you safely. All while keeping your identity private. 

This way you stay safe, your identity stays hidden, and everything runs smoothly. 

Why would you use a Proxy Server? 

1. Privacy 

2. Security 

3. Bypassing Restrictions 

4. Load Balancing 

Proxy Servers in MFT? 

MFT is a secure way for businesses to send data between locations. This is often done across different networks, and most of the time carries sensitive or confidential information.

When using MFT to transfer data, security is the key to ensure no unauthorised parties can intercept or access that data. That is where proxy plays a vital role in those situations. 

1. Enhanced security – When a business sends a file over the internet, a proxy server will act as an additional layer of security. It will prevent direct connections to the company's internal network. This alone would reduce the risk of cyber threats.
   
   
2. Encryption support – Proxy servers help ensure that files are encrypted during the transfer, which is essential for keeping sensitive information safe from hackers.
   
   
3. Access control – By using a proxy, companies can control who can send or receive files. Only the authorised users or systems can access MFT environments, which reduces the chances of data breaches. 
   
   
4. Network segmentation – In big organisations, proxy servers can help separate different parts of the network. Limiting the areas that need direct exposure to the internet. This would reduce the risk of potential vulnerabilities on the systems.
   

Example of a scenario where the company uses a Proxy Server in MFT 

We have an imaginary company called “SecureCompany” that needs to send sensitive financial data to its partner across the UK. Instead of sending this data directly over the internet, SecureCompany uses an MFT system with a proxy server in place. 

1. The file is uploaded to the MFT system by the sender.
   
   
2. The proxy server intercepts the request and ensures that the file is encrypted, and it verifies that the recipient has permission to receive the file. 

3. Proxy forwards the request to the recipient's MFT system.

4. The file is delivered securely, and the proxy server logs the transaction for auditing purposes.

With this process in place, sensitive data is protected at every step, minimising the risk of exposure. 

Do I need a Proxy Server? 

Are you a part of the business that regularly transfers sensitive data through MFT? If your answer is yes, then a proxy server can significantly improve your security posture and help manage your data flow more effectively.  

If you would like to learn more on the subject, contact our team today. Or, visit our consultancy page for more information.