Forward proxy vs. reverse proxy – what's the difference and when should you use each? Alternatively:

Forward proxy vs. reverse proxy is all about direction, man.

Forward: Client -> Proxy -> Internet
Reverse: Client -> Proxy -> Server

Real-world? Forward proxy = office firewall. Reverse proxy = CDN like Akamai.

If you're setting one up, HAProxy is solid for reverse, and Privoxy for forward.