Which statement best describes a proxy server's role in web security?

A proxy server primarily acts as an intermediary between a user and the internet, allowing it to hide the user's IP address. This is significant for web security because it helps anonymize the user's online presence, making it more challenging for websites and potential attackers to track their specific location or identify them. By masking the IP address, the proxy server provides an additional layer of privacy and helps protect against certain types of cyber threats that rely on identifying or targeting specific individuals.

In contrast, while a proxy may perform additional functions, such as content filtering or caching, its primary role related to web security is focused on anonymizing user information. Other functions, like encryption or firewall protection, typically require different specialized technologies and systems. For example, encryption is handled by VPNs or secure protocols like HTTPS, firewalls are dedicated systems or software designed to block unauthorized access, and antivirus programs specifically focus on detecting and eliminating malware.