Reverse Proxy vs Proxy Server: What's the Real Difference and Which One Should You Use?

Honestly, the confusion is real. I used to think they were the same thing lol.

Proxy = client-side (hide your IP, bypass filters).
Reverse proxy = server-side (protect your servers, manage traffic).

If you're hosting anything, go reverse proxy. Otherwise, just stick to a VPN or something like Privoxy for basic stuff.