What is the primary function of a proxy server?

The primary function of a proxy server is to act as an intermediary for enhancing privacy and security. Proxy servers facilitate communication between a user's device and the internet, allowing them to route their requests through the proxy instead of directly connecting to websites. This process helps mask the user's IP address, which contributes to anonymity and privacy while browsing online.

In addition, proxy servers can implement security measures such as filtering out malicious content, blocking access to certain sites, and logging user activity for monitoring purposes. By doing so, they create a barrier between users and potential threats on the internet, thereby enhancing overall security.

The other options describe functions that are not typically associated with a proxy server. For instance, while proxies might improve access times indirectly through caching, increasing internet speed is not their primary purpose. Encryption is related to the secure transmission of data but is not something that proxy servers eliminate; rather, some proxies can facilitate encrypted connections. Lastly, while digital certificates are essential for establishing HTTPS connections and securing data transfers, they are not the primary function of a proxy server, which focuses more on user anonymity and security.