How to Use an Anonymous Proxy
In an attempt to remaining untraceable or anonymous, users maintain safe web browsing techniques and online behavior. A few of these safe browsing techniques involve observation of security features on web sites, and web site checks using web directories. Of the safe browsing techniques, a fast emerging measure is to browse the internet or send electronic mail (e-mail) through an untraceable internet protocol (IP) address.
To be completely untraceable, internet users must use applications or services which offer an anonymous proxy. An anonymous proxy is an application program written for the sole purpose of the prevention of traceability over the internet, therefore providing an envelope of protection for the user. The user’s IP address is hidden or masked by accessing sites through a proxy. A proxy is an intermediary between the user’s request for access to a web site and the server’s response to facilitating the request. Proxies are mostly used in organizations as an intermediary device intercepting and processing web requests.
Using an Anonymous Proxy
When using an anonymous proxy, it is highly recommended that the user research on the service being provided. The anonymous proxy service must be able to intercept data requests and mask any information which can give away the identity of the user or the device being used. Again, the usage of an anonymous proxy is to remain untraceable, undetected or “invisible” to any tracing functions which may be recording the data requests from a particular device or computer.
The anonymous proxy is programmed into the proxy server, therefore, any device or computer to be used under unidentifiable pretense must connect to the proxy server, which will route all data through the anonymous proxy server address.
Highly sophisticated systems providing anonymous proxies require the user to manually input the proxy server address into their browser settings or into their connection settings. The proxy server address can be obtained from the Information Technology Officer or Administrator within a professional organization. For smaller scale, private or one-off ventures using anonymous proxies, there are several web sites which offer this service. A simple web search for an anonymous proxy can result in several web sites offering the service.
Anonymous Proxy Features
Choosing a good, high quality online anonymous proxy will be evident if it requires the user to create an SSL or TLS tunnel. The setting up of either of these tunnels, or security routes, prevent hackers or any packet sniffers from intercepting data being transmitted, although anonymity is being upheld. The risk of a packet sniffer or other data interceptors is that identification of sensitive or specific information can be gathered by external individuals which may lead to unauthorized discovery or acquisition of information.
Most web anonymous proxy servers are based on HTTP connectivity, while others use FTP based connections. High quality proxy servers facilitate secure web connections via HTTPS.
Additional Benefits of using an Anonymous Proxy
Anonymous proxy usage also prevents unnecessary storage of information by cookies, prevents pop-ups, banners and scripts from being executed on web pages.
