What's the difference between proxy vs reverse proxy? Which one should I use? Alternatively, if you prefer a

You’re spot on!

Proxies = outbound privacy. Reverse proxies = inbound control.

If you’re running a site, a reverse proxy is non-negotiable. It’s your first line of defense—blocking bad traffic, caching static files, etc.

Nginx is the OG, but Traefik is gaining fans for its automation.

For personal use, eh, just use a VPN.