A reverse proxy is used to route client requests to the appropriate backend servers and distribute the load among multiple servers. It sits between clients and servers, intercepting requests from clients and forwarding them to one or more servers based on factors such as load balancing, caching, or security policies. Reverse proxies can also provide additional services like SSL termination, compression, and web application firewall protection.
We use a reverse proxy to enhance the performance, security, and scalability of web applications. It helps distribute incoming traffic across multiple servers, preventing any single server from becoming a bottleneck. Reverse proxies can also cache content to reduce server load, enforce security measures by filtering malicious traffic, and provide a single point of access for SSL termination, simplifying certificate management.
A reverse proxy should be used when there is a need to balance the load among multiple servers, improve the performance of web applications, or enhance security. It is particularly beneficial for high-traffic websites and applications that require efficient traffic management and distribution. Reverse proxies are also useful for providing a layer of abstraction and control between clients and backend servers, allowing for easier scaling and maintenance.
An example of a reverse proxy is Nginx. Nginx is a widely used web server and reverse proxy server that can handle high traffic volumes and provide load balancing, caching, and SSL termination. It is known for its high performance, stability, and ease of configuration, making it a popular choice for serving as a reverse proxy in various web applications.
The difference between a proxy and a reverse proxy lies in their roles and how they handle requests. A proxy server (or forward proxy) acts on behalf of clients, forwarding their requests to external servers and returning the responses. It is typically used to provide anonymity, control internet usage, and cache content for clients. A reverse proxy, on the other hand, acts on behalf of servers, receiving client requests and forwarding them to the appropriate backend servers. It is used to balance loads, improve performance, and enhance security for web applications and services.