A DNS proxy is a server that intercepts and processes DNS queries on behalf of a client device. When you try to visit a website, your device typically queries a DNS server to translate the domain name into an IP address. With a DNS proxy, that request is first routed through a proxy server that can forward the query, modify it, or respond with a cached result. Depending on the configuration, DNS proxies can mask the original requester’s identity, reroute traffic through specific servers, or filter out harmful or restricted content. Unlike full web proxies, DNS proxies only handle the domain resolution stage, making them lightweight, fast, and ideal for basic content control or speed optimization.