What role does a proxy server play in network communications?

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between a client and the destination server. Its primary role involves handling requests from clients, sending those requests to the appropriate server, and then returning the server's response back to the clients. This operation inherently involves managing connections, including maintaining TCP connection state and sequencing. By doing so, the proxy server ensures that data packets are transmitted in the correct order and allows for efficient communication between devices on a network.

While caching files to improve download speeds can be a function of some proxy servers, it is not their only or primary role. Additionally, the notion that a proxy server solely blocks unauthorized access or merely monitors network traffic without interference does not capture the full scope of its capabilities. A proxy server's ability to manage connection states and ensure reliable communication makes it a critical component in many networking scenarios.