A TCP proxy is a server that intermediates traffic at the TCP level, forwarding data packets between clients and destination servers without modifying application-layer content. Unlike HTTP proxies, which operate at the application layer and are limited to web traffic, TCP proxies can handle any TCP-based protocol—such as FTP, SMTP, IMAP, and database connections—making them highly versatile. They establish a transparent, bidirectional communication tunnel that supports reliable, ordered data transfer, essential for applications that require persistent sessions or secure authentication. This low-level proxying capability makes TCP proxies indispensable in modern networking environments where stability and protocol support are critical.