A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet. When you request a website, the proxy server fetches the information on your behalf, masking your IP address. This helps protect your privacy and can also allow you to access content that may be restricted in your region. Additionally, proxy servers can improve internet speed by caching frequently accessed websites. This means that if multiple users request the same site, the proxy can deliver the cached version quickly, reducing load times. Overall, using a proxy server enhances both security and browsing efficiency.