Is a Proxy Server Safer to Use

  • Thread starter Thread starter Paul
  • Start date Start date
P

Paul

Hi,
I'm using Sygate Firewall with XP Home Edition, together
with McaFee anti virus. Should I turn off the option of
using a proxy server and rely on the firewall to block the
ports or not. When I turn offf the proxy server and scan
using Sygate, it tells me all the ports are blocked.
Because I know nothing about it,I thought that using a
proxy server was more secure because you effectively hid
behind the proxy and nobody knew you were there.
Some input from someone that knows about security would be
appreciated.
Paul
 
A proxy and a firewall serve two different functions.

A proxy server is designed to cache web content so
numerous users within a given location do not have to
go "out to the web" to retrieve common pages. In
addition, it can be configured to block access
from "inside" to certain ports or destinations on
the "outside". For example, to prevent local users from
using FTP unless they are members of a certain group.

A firewall works opposite of the proxy in that it blocks
or shuts off ports from the "outside" to the "inside".
It is the firewall which prevents a port scanner from
detecting your network or computer.

Hope this helps.
 
Proxy severs use NAT/PAT to provide internet access to numerous computers through
one or a limited number of public ip addresses using a computer with at least two
nics - one public and one to the lan. If your setup is not like that I would leave it
shut off and be happy the scan shows your computer to be secure. --- Steve
 
You have already been answered pretty well, but I would
add that you do have to have a proxy server in order to use
it, so you should ask those that run the proxy about what
features it implements that might protect you. Some proxy
servers can do a great deal of filtering, some of which may
protect you and some of which may only limit you.
 
Back
Top