An industrial oriented micro project report (2024-2025)

on

HTTP PROXY SERVER

submitted by

CH.SREEMANI 22W91A0553

Under the esteemed guidance of

Mr. P. Ram Karthik M.Tech

Assistant Professor / CSE

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLGY

IN

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

MALLA REDDY INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

(UGC AUTONOMOUS)

(Sponsored by Malla Reddy Educational society) (Affiliated to JNTU Hyderabad)

Maisammaguda, Dulapally post, Sechendrabad-500014

 DEPARTMET OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEER-
ING

BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that this is an industrial oriented micro project report titled “HTTP PROXY
SERVER” submitted by CH.SREEMANI (22W91A0553) in the partial fulfilment of the
requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Technology. Department of Computer Science &
Engineering and this has not been submitted for the award of any other degree of this institu -
tion.

INTERNAL GUIDE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT

EXTERNAL FACULTY
 DECLARATION

I am hereby declare that the Industrial Oriented Micro Project report titled “HTTP PROXY
SERVER”, submitted to Malla Reddy Institute of Engineering and Technology (Autono-
mous), affiliated to Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad (JNTUH), for the
award of the degree of Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science & Engineering. It is fur-
ther declared that the project report or any part of there has not been previously submitted to
any University or Institute for the award of degree or diploma.

CH.SREE MANI 22W91A0553

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, I am grateful to the Principal Dr. P. SRINIVAS, for providing me with all
the resources in the college to make my project a success. I thank him for his valuable sug-
gestions at the time of seminars which encouraged me to give my best in the project

I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. MD ASHFAQUL HASAN, Head of the Depart-
ment, Department of Computer Science and Engineering for his support and valuable sugges-
tions during the dissertation work

I offer my sincere gratitude to my project coordinator and internal guide Mr. P. Ram
Karthik, Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Engineering department who has sup-
ported me throughout this project with their patience and valuable suggestions.

I would also like to thank all the supporting staff of the Dept. of CSE and all other depart-
ments who have been helpful directly or indirectly in making the project a success.

I am extremely grateful to my parents for their blessings and prayers for my completion of
project that gave me strength to do my project

CH.SREE MANI 22W91A0553

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

S.NO CHAPTER PAGE NO

1 ABSTRACT 2

2 INTRODUCTION 3

3 EXISTING SYSTEM 4

4 PROPOSED SYSTEM 5

5 SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS 7

6 HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS 7

7 IMPLEMENTATION 8

8 OUTPUTSCREENS 11

9 CONCLUSION 12

10 REFERENCES 13
 ABSTRACT
An HTTP Proxy Server is a critical intermediary in modern networking, facilitating commu-
nication between client devices and web servers while enhancing efficiency, security, and
performance. Acting as a gateway, it receives client requests, forwards them to the intended
server, retrieves the requested resources, and delivers them back to the client. This intermedi-
ary role introduces a range of benefits, including caching, privacy, load balancing, and traffic
monitoring, making it indispensable in diverse applications. One of the primary functions of
an HTTP Proxy Server is caching, where frequently requested resources are stored locally to
reduce redundant requests to the server. This significantly improves response times for users,
reduces bandwidth consumption, and enhances the scalability of network infrastructure, par-
ticularly in high-traffic environments. Proxy servers also provide anonymity by masking
client IP addresses, enabling users to maintain privacy while accessing online resources and
bypassing geographic or organizational restrictions. From a security perspective, HTTP
Proxy Servers offer robust capabilities, including access control and content filtering. Organi-
zations often use these features to enforce usage policies, restrict access to unauthorized web-
sites or services, and prevent exposure to harmful content. Traffic inspection further enhances
security by scanning data for malware, phishing attempts, and other threats, offering an addi-
tional layer of protection for users and networks. The adoption of HTTPS support in modern
proxies ensures secure communication between clients and servers by encrypting data during
transmission. This is particularly critical for protecting sensitive information such as login
credentials, financial data, and personal details, mitigating the risks associated with data
breaches. HTTP Proxy Servers also play a vital role in load balancing, efficiently distributing
incoming client requests across multiple backend servers to prevent overload and maintain
consistent system performance. This feature ensures high availability and reliability, espe-
cially for enterprises managing mission-critical applications or websites with significant user
traffic. Additionally, proxy servers facilitate traffic logging and analytics, enabling network
administrators to monitor usage patterns, detect anomalies, and optimize network perfor-
mance. These insights are invaluable for both operational efficiency and strategic decision-
making in large-scale networks. In conclusion, the HTTP Proxy Server is a versatile tool that
combines functionality, security, and scalability to meet the demands of modern internet us-
age.
 INTRODUCTION
An HTTP Proxy Server is an essential component of modern networking infrastructure, act-
ing as an intermediary between clients (such as web browsers or applications) and web
servers. It facilitates the communication process by intercepting client requests, forwarding
them to the appropriate server, and then delivering the server's response back to the client.
This intermediary functionality enables the proxy server to provide a wide array of benefits,
including improved performance, enhanced security, and greater control over network traffic.
In its basic form, an HTTP Proxy Server helps optimize network efficiency through caching,
where frequently accessed web resources are stored locally. This reduces redundant server re-
quests, improves load times, and decreases bandwidth usage. Beyond performance improve-
ments, proxy servers also enhance privacy by masking the IP addresses of client devices, al-
lowing users to access the internet without directly exposing their identity or location.Secu-
rity is a significant advantage of using an HTTP Proxy Server. It can filter content, block ac -
cess to malicious or inappropriate websites, and inspect traffic for potential threats. These
features are commonly employed in corporate environments to enforce usage policies and
protect users from cyber risks. Additionally, modern proxy servers support HTTPS, enabling
secure transmission of sensitive information and ensuring data integrity during communica-
tion. Another critical function of an HTTP Proxy Server is load balancing, which distributes
incoming client requests across multiple backend servers. This ensures that no single server
becomes overwhelmed, maintaining system reliability and availability even during peak traf-
fic periods. Furthermore, traffic monitoring and logging capabilities offer valuable insights
for administrators to analyze usage patterns, optimize performance, and troubleshoot issues.
With its versatility and extensive range of features, the HTTP Proxy Server has become an in-
dispensable tool for both individual users and organizations. Whether it's enabling faster ac-
cess to web resources, securing sensitive data, or managing complex networks, HTTP Proxy
Servers play a pivotal role in supporting the demands of modern internet usage.
 EXISTING SYSTEM

HTTP Proxy Servers are widely deployed in modern networking systems to manage, opti-
mize, and secure communication between clients and web servers. The existing systems have
matured to offer a diverse range of functionalities, catering to personal users, enterprises, and
large-scale networks.

1. Basic Proxy Servers : Traditional HTTP proxies operate as intermediaries, forwarding

requests from clients to servers and returning responses. These are simple, lightweight so-
lutions designed for small-scale applications with basic needs like caching and IP masking.

2. Transparent Proxies: Transparent proxies intercept traffic without requiring explicit

client configuration. They are commonly used by ISPs, educational institutions, and enter-
prises to enforce internet usage policies, filter content, and monitor traffic seamlessly.

3. Forward Proxies: These are deployed to handle outgoing client requests from internal net-
works to external servers. They provide features like content filtering, user authentication,
and anonymization, allowing organizations to control and secure access to the internet.

4. Reverse Proxies : Reverse proxies sit in front of backend servers and manage incoming
client requests. They enhance performance through load balancing, SSL offloading, and
caching. These are essential in enterprise systems and high-traffic websites to ensure reliabil-
ity and scalability.

Limitations in Existing Systems

Despite their advancements, existing proxy systems face challenges such as difficulty adapt-
ing to new encryption standards, performance bottlenecks under high traffic, and privacy con-
cerns related to traffic inspection. However, ongoing innovations aim to address these issues
and enhance the efficiency, security, and usability of HTTP Proxy Servers.
 PROPOSED SYSTEM
The proposed system for an HTTP Proxy Server builds upon the existing infrastructure and
incorporates advanced features to address the evolving needs of modern networks. By inte-
grating cutting-edge technologies, this system aims to enhance performance, security, scala-
bility, and user experience while overcoming the limitations of current proxy systems. 1. En-
hanced Caching Mechanism : The new system would introduce an intelligent caching al-
gorithm that dynamically adapts to user behavior and traffic patterns. By incorporating ma-
chine learning techniques, the system can predict frequently accessed resources and preemp-
tively cache them. This reduces latency and improves response times, particularly for high-
traffic websites and applications.

2. Advanced HTTPS Proxying and SSL/TLS Inspection: As HTTPS traffic becomes in-
creasingly prevalent, the proposed system will utilize advanced SSL/TLS inspection tech-
niques that are more efficient and secure. This will enable deeper traffic analysis without
compromising encryption standards. The system will support automated certificate handling,
ensuring that secure connections are maintained without performance degradation.

3. AI-Driven Traffic Optimization and Load Balancing: The proposed proxy server would
integrate AI-based algorithms for load balancing and traffic management. These algorithms
would analyze traffic in real-time, detect patterns, and dynamically adjust resource allocation.
This ensures optimal performance during high-traffic periods, preventing system overload
and maintaining service reliability.

4. End-to-End Encryption and Privacy Protection : To enhance user privacy, the proposed
system would feature end-to-end encryption for all proxy communications. By using ad-
vanced encryption protocols like quantum-resistant algorithms, the system would provide ro-
bust security against future cryptographic vulnerabilities. It would also include privacy-en-
hancing technologies like IP rotation and session anonymization to further protect user iden-
tity.

5. Integrated Threat Detection and Prevention: The proposed proxy server would incorpo-
rate an intelligent threat detection system that uses machine learning models to identify
anomalies, malware, and security threats in real-time. By continuously analyzing traffic pat-
terns, the system can detect and mitigate potential cyberattacks, including DDoS, man-in-the-
middle attacks, and phishing attempts, before they reach the internal network.
6. Decentralized Distributed Proxy Network:To overcome the scalability issues of central-
ized proxy systems, the proposed system would implement a decentralized, distributed proxy
network. This network would allow proxy servers to operate in multiple geographic locations,
improving redundancy, resilience, and reducing latency for global users. A distributed model
also enhances the system's ability to handle increased traffic loads effectively.

7.Contextual Content Filtering and Adaptive Policies: The system will employ more so-
phisticated content filtering based on context and user profiles. Policies can be adaptive, ad-
justing to changing needs and traffic conditions. For example, in educational environments,
content restrictions can be dynamic based on the time of day or subject matter, and in corpo-
rate settings, the system can enforce security policies based on user roles and access levels.

8. Real-Time Monitoring and Analytics Dashboard:The proposed system will feature a

comprehensive, real-time analytics dashboard for administrators. The dashboard would visu-
alize traffic patterns, performance metrics, and security alerts. Machine learning-based anom-
aly detection would notify administrators about potential issues or bottlenecks, allowing for
proactive troubleshooting and optimization.

Advantages of the Proposed System

Scalability: Distributed, decentralized design ensures the system can handle growing traffic
demands and geographically dispersed user bases.

Performance: Advanced caching, AI-based traffic optimization, and edge computing en-
hance system responsiveness and reduce latency.

Security: The integration of advanced threat detection, real-time monitoring, and end-to-end
encryption ensures comprehensive protection.

Privacy: Enhanced privacy features such as IP anonymization and end-to-end encryption

make the system ideal for organizations prioritizing data security.

SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS

PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE : Python / c / c++

OPERATING SYSTEM : LINUX, WINDOWS, MacOS

NETWORKING TOOLS : Wireshark

VERSION TOOL : GIT

HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS

PROCESSOR : Dual – core (i5)

RAM : 8GB

STORAGE : 100 MB

NETWORK : high speed internet connection

 IMPLEMENTATION
Custom HTTP Proxy Server with Python for Web Request Management

PYTHON CODE:

import socket

import threading

import requests

# Function to handle the client request

def handle_client(client_socket):

# Receive the client request

request = client_socket.recv(1024).decode('utf-8')

# Extract the target host and port from the HTTP request

first_line = request.split("\n")[0]

url = first_line.split(" ")[1]

# Handle the case for HTTP requests with a host specified

if url.startswith("http://"):

url = url[7:] # Remove "http://"

host = url.split("/")[0] # Extract the host from the URL

try:

# Create a socket to connect to the target web server

server_socket = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_STREAM)

server_socket.connect((host, 80)) # Connect to the server on port 80 (HTTP)

 # Forward the request to the web server

server_socket.send(request.encode())

# Receive the response from the server

response = server_socket.recv(4096)

# Send the server's response back to the client

while len(response) > 0:

client_socket.send(response)

response = server_socket.recv(4096)

# Close the connection to the client and server

server_socket.close()

client_socket.close()

except Exception as e:

print(f"Error handling request for {host}: {e}")

client_socket.close()

# Function to start the proxy server

def start_proxy_server(host='0.0.0.0', port=8888):

# Create a socket for the proxy server

proxy_server_socket = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_STREAM)

# Bind the proxy server to the specified address and port

proxy_server_socket.bind((host, port))

proxy_server_socket.listen(5) # Listen for incoming connections

 print(f"Proxy Server started on {host}:{port}")

# Accept client connections in an infinite loop

while True:

client_socket, client_address = proxy_server_socket.accept()

print(f"Connection from {client_address}")

# Handle the client request in a separate thread

client_handler = threading.Thread(target=handle_client, args=(client_socket,))

client_handler.start()

# Run the proxy server on localhost:8888

if __name__ == '__main__':

start_proxy_server()

Explanation

Proxy Server Setup:

The proxy server listens on a specified host and port (default is
localhost:8888). It uses socket to listen for incoming connections.

Client Request Handling:

When a client connects, the server reads the HTTP request, extracts the
target host from the URL, and establishes a connection to that web server.
The proxy server then forwards the client’s request to the server and re-
trieves the response.

Forwarding Data:
Once the server responds, the proxy forwards the response back to the
client. The server and client connections are maintained until the data
transfer is complete, after which they are closed.

Multithreading:
The proxy server uses threads (threading.Thread) to handle multiple
clients concurrently, which ensures the server can process multiple re-
quests at the same time.
Usage

1. Corporate Web Traffic Monitoring and Access Control.

2. Secure web access for remote workers.
3. Content Filtering for schools or public Networks.

OUTPUT SCREENS
 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, an HTTP proxy server plays a critical role in network communication by act-
ing as an intermediary between clients and web servers. It helps to enhance security by mask -
ing client IP addresses, thus providing anonymity and protecting users from potential threats.
Additionally, the server improves performance through caching, reducing the need for re-
peated requests to the same resources and speeding up access times. Furthermore, HTTP
proxy servers offer content filtering and access control, enabling organizations to regulate in-
ternet usage and block undesirable content.

Despite its advantages, the HTTP proxy server also has some limitations. It may introduce la-
tency if not properly configured, and reliance on proxy servers for performance improve-
ments can sometimes lead to bottlenecks. Additionally, security risks can arise if the proxy is
not securely set up, potentially exposing sensitive data. However, with proper management,
these challenges can be mitigated.

In environments where privacy, performance, and access control are essential, HTTP proxy
servers offer a valuable solution. They help organizations optimize their networks, provide
security measures, and ensure users’ privacy. Furthermore, as internet traffic increases and
online threats become more sophisticated, the demand for effective proxy solutions will con-
tinue to grow.

Overall, an HTTP proxy server is an indispensable tool in modern networking, providing a

balance between security, performance, and privacy. By understanding its capabilities and po-
tential challenges, organizations can leverage its benefits while minimizing risks, ensuring
smoother and more secure internet experiences for all users.
 REFERENCES

• GeeksforGeeks: HTTP Proxy Server

• TutorialsPoint: Proxy Servers

• Chat GPT

• Real Python: Working with HTTP Requests in Python

• Stack Overflow: HTTP Proxy Server Questions