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What is the primary function of a web proxy in a network?

  1. To simplify web page access

  2. To enhance user privacy by passing requests

  3. To store frequently accessed files

  4. To create additional domains

The correct answer is: To enhance user privacy by passing requests

The primary function of a web proxy in a network is to enhance user privacy by passing requests. When a user connects to the internet through a web proxy, their requests are sent to the proxy server first instead of going directly to the internet. The proxy then forwards these requests to the target server, effectively masking the user's IP address. This means that the target server cannot directly identify or track the user, which helps protect personal information and maintains a level of anonymity while browsing the web. This function is crucial for maintaining privacy online, especially in environments where individuals may want to keep their browsing habits confidential. While proxies can have other functionalities, such as caching frequently accessed files to improve load times, the primary and most commonly recognized role is their ability to protect user identity and offer enhanced privacy.