CompTIA Cloud+ Practice Test

Which of the following best defines the function of a proxy in a network?

1. It monitors traffic between the source and destination.

2. It encrypts traffic for security.

3. It enhances bandwidth availability.

4. It manages user access control.

The correct answer is: It monitors traffic between the source and destination.

A proxy serves as an intermediary between a client and a server, and its primary function involves monitoring and controlling the traffic that flows between the two. By acting on behalf of the client, a proxy can inspect requests and responses, which allows it to filter content, log traffic, and enforce policies. This functionality is particularly useful in various scenarios, such as improving security, implementing caching for better performance, and controlling access to specific resources. While encrypting traffic and managing user access control are important network functions, these are not the sole responsibilities of a proxy. Likewise, enhancing bandwidth availability typically involves techniques beyond the scope of what a proxy does directly. A proxy focuses on overseeing and managing the flow of data between the source and destination, making monitoring traffic its best defining function.