What is the primary purpose of a proxy server in network communication?

A proxy server's primary function is to act as an intermediary between clients and the internet, which is why the selected answer is accurate. This intermediary role allows the proxy to receive requests from clients, forward them to the intended servers, and then return the response back to the clients. In doing so, proxy servers can also implement various security measures by filtering and monitoring the requests and responses as necessary.

Additionally, this capability enables proxies to enhance privacy by masking the client's IP address, thereby obscuring their identity and location while accessing content online. Proxies can also cache content, which can improve access speeds to frequently requested resources, although this is a secondary benefit rather than their primary function.

In contrast, the other options either misrepresent the fundamental purpose of a proxy server or overstate its capabilities. For instance, while a proxy can contribute to faster internet access through caching, it is not its main function. Providing unlimited bandwidth is not realistic, as proxies do not inherently increase the actual amount of bandwidth available; they simply manage how bandwidth is utilized. Lastly, a proxy server does not connect users directly to the internet; it routes their traffic through itself, meaning it does not eliminate the need for direct internet connections.

Overall, the primary role of a proxy server