CyberGuard dictionary / Network Security
Reverse Proxy
A reverse proxy is an intermediary that receives client requests as the public-facing endpoint and forwards them to one or more backend services.
In simple terms
Visitors connect to the reverse proxy while application servers sit behind it.
Technical explanation
Reverse proxies can terminate TLS, route by host or path, balance traffic, cache responses, and apply access controls. Backend trust in forwarded headers must be configured carefully or clients may spoof identity or scheme information.
A reverse proxy receives client requests before forwarding them to backend services. It may terminate TLS, route traffic, add security headers, or enforce rate limits, but backend authorization remains essential.
Examples in practice
A public HTTPS proxy sends shop requests to one application service and account requests to another private service.
The proxy routes `/api` to an application service and limits abusive requests. The application still checks that a signed-in customer owns the invoice requested through that path.
Why it matters
A well-configured proxy centralizes entry controls, but misconfiguration can expose backend services or corrupt request context.
VERIFY & LEARN MORE
Sources and further reading
Published 2026-10-15 · Last updated 2026-10-15 · CyberGuard editorial content. Source links provide context; they do not imply endorsement.