Can someone explain what are HTTP proxies and how they work? or What are HTTP proxies and why would I

Subject: Newbie question: What are HTTP proxies used for?

Hey everyone!

So, I keep hearing about HTTP proxies but tbh, I'm kinda lost. what are http proxies exactly? Like, are they just middlemen between me and the internet?

And why would someone even need one? I’ve heard they can hide your IP or something, but how does that even work?

Also, do they slow things down? Sorry if these are dumb questions, but google’s giving me mixed answers.

Would really appreciate a simple breakdown! Thanks y’all 🙏

(Ps. If this has been asked before, feel free to link me—I tried searching but got overwhelmed lol)