At its simplest, a web proxy acts as an intermediary. When you type a URL into a proxy site, the request doesn't go directly from your computer to the target website. Instead, it goes to the proxy server. The proxy server then fetches the website and displays it to you.

These tools take proxy traffic and disguise it as normal HTTPS browsing (like visiting Amazon). Because the traffic looks harmless, deep packet inspection (DPI) firewalls let it pass automatically.

: Access social media or news sites blocked by schools or workplaces.