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Proxy
Definition:
A proxy is an intermediary server that acts as a gateway between a client and a target server, allowing the client to make requests to the server indirectly through the proxy server. This can be used for various purposes, such as improving security and privacy, accessing restricted content, or monitoring and controlling network traffic.
Understanding the Proxy Pattern in Software Development
In computer science, the Proxy pattern is a structural design pattern that provides a surrogate or placeholder for another object. The proxy acts as an intermediary, controlling access to the original object. This pattern is used to add a level of indirection to support distributed, controlled, or intelligent access.
Types of Proxies:
There are several types of proxies commonly used in software development:
- Virtual Proxy: Delays the creation and initialization of the actual object until it is accessed.
- Remote Proxy: Represents an object located in a different address space, such as in distributed systems.
- Protective Proxy: Controls access to the original object and enforces security or access restrictions.
Benefits of Using Proxies:
By utilizing proxies in software development, developers can achieve various benefits:
- Improved Performance: Proxies can cache requests or defer the loading of heavy objects, improving system performance.
- Enhanced Security: Protective proxies can enforce access controls and validate inputs, making the system more secure.
- Reduced Network Usage: Remote proxies can reduce network traffic by acting as local representatives for objects in remote systems.
Overall, the Proxy pattern is a powerful tool in the software developer's arsenal, enabling efficient, secure, and flexible access to objects in a wide range of applications.
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