What is my proxy and how do I find out what it is? or Can someone explain what is my proxy and why it

"Can someone explain what is my proxy and why it matters?"

Hey guys, kinda new to this whole networking stuff and keep hearing about proxies. But like... what is my proxy exactly? Is it some hidden setting or something?

I tried googling but all the explanations are way too technical. Like, why does it even matter if I have one or not?

Also, how do I even check what is my proxy? Is there a quick way to find out? And do I *need* one for normal browsing or just for sketchy stuff lol?

Any simple answers would be awesome. Thanks!

(Also, sorry if this is a dumb question—just trying to figure it out.)