In which scenario would you most likely use a proxy server?

Using a proxy server is often done to enhance privacy and anonymity while browsing the internet. When a user routes their connection through a proxy server, the server acts as an intermediary between the user and the websites they visit. This means that the websites will see the IP address of the proxy instead of the user's actual IP address, effectively masking the user's identity and location. This feature is frequently utilized by individuals seeking to maintain their privacy, access restricted content, or bypass censorship.

While there are scenarios where a proxy server could assist with data transfer speeds, as it might cache previously visited pages, its primary role is not necessarily speed enhancement. Similarly, connecting directly to the internet doesn’t require a proxy server, and the use of a proxy wouldn’t directly address issues related to network congestion but can impact overall network performance positively or negatively depending on various factors.