Forward & Reverse Proxy Simulator — Interactive System Design Lab
Switch between forward proxy and reverse proxy modes and observe how the request path changes. In forward mode, the origin server sees only the proxy — fire requests from different clients and watch the destination remain blind to who sent them. In reverse mode, clients talk only to the proxy — requests are distributed across backends via round-robin while the backend topology stays hidden from clients.
Route requests through a forward or reverse proxy and watch what each side can and cannot see.
This free interactive simulation runs directly in your browser — no account needed. Adjust the parameters and watch how the system responds in real time.
Concepts covered
- proxy
- forward proxy
- reverse proxy
- SSL termination
- load balancing
- networking
Read the guide
- Proxies — Every major system sits behind a proxy. Learn the difference between forward and reverse proxies, why the distinction matters, and how CDNs and API gateways are just specialised reverse proxies under the hood.
- CDN (Content Delivery Network) — Speed isn't just about fast servers; it's about physics. Learn how CDNs beat the speed of light by moving content closer to your users.
- Load Balancing — The unsung hero of scalability. It protects your servers from crushing load and gives you the freedom to fail without downtime.