Cache proxies act as intermediaries between client devices and the internet, but with a critical difference: they store copies of requested content. When a user requests a webpage, video, or file, the proxy server checks whether it has a cached version. If it does, it delivers the content instantly from the local cache instead of fetching it again from the source server. If the content is not cached, the proxy retrieves it from the origin, serves it to the user, and stores it for future requests.
This process not only saves time but also reduces external bandwidth usage. Modern cache proxies can cache HTTP, HTTPS, static files, streaming media, and even DNS queries—making them a vital tool for enterprises, schools, ISPs, and content delivery networks.