(1) A server that receives requests intended for another server and that acts on the client's behalf (as the client's proxy) to obtain the requested service. A proxy server is often used when the client and the server are incompatible for direct connection. For example, the client is unable to meet the security authentication requirements of the server but should be permitted some services.
(2) A server that acts as an intermediary for HTTP Web requests that are hosted by an application or a Web server. A proxy server acts as a surrogate for the content servers in the enterprise.