Remote Access Proxy: What Is It & How to Use It

What is proxy and its role in remote access?

Using a proxy is often essential for accessing a remote desktop over the internet. Acting as an intermediary, a proxy facilitates indirect connections when direct ones are either unsafe or impractical.

This capability is particularly valuable for remote access to corporate computers for troubleshooting purposes from outside the firewall. With more professionals working remotely or from home, some companies may need employees to connect to corporate devices using their personal computers. Ensuring these connections are secure and reliable is crucial in both scenarios.

Types of proxies for secure remote access

Several methods are available for using a proxy to access a remote desktop over the Internet:

VPN: While not a proxy in the strict sense, a virtual private network (VPN) provides similar functionality for setting up remote access to a corporate network. It encrypts network traffic, safeguarding against unauthorized access, and typically requires the installation of remote access VPN client software on user devices. However, VPNs alone may lack advanced remote control features like screen sharing or command prompts.

HTTPS Proxy: An HTTPS proxy is another option, often used to establish secure web traffic proxies. Microsoft supports Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) connections via HTTPS proxies, though additional setup may be necessary.

SSH Tunnels: Secure Shell (SSH) servers can function as proxies to route traffic by configuring port forwarding between the server and the end-user device. However, since SSH servers usually do not compress network traffic, this method can result in slower connections, especially for screen sharing and similar tasks.

Internet Proxy with Software: Alternatively, remote desktop software with built-in proxy support can be used. This software is designed for secure RDP connections, providing a more straightforward and user-friendly remote connection experience without the need to set up and manage the proxy manually.

AnyViewer: Best remote access software with proxy

Using software with a built-in proxy for remote desktop access over the internet enhances both the feasibility and security of the connection by bypassing firewalls and avoiding public internet exposure. This approach simplifies, secures, and improves the efficiency of remote connections for businesses.

AnyViewer facilitates easier connections to computers outside the local area network (LAN). Designed for IT technicians, it enables secure remote sessions over the internet using a reliable proxy. This proxy remote access software relays and safeguards communications between network devices and end users outside the firewall, allowing for the quick and professional management of devices located beyond the LAN.

Follow the steps below to set up and use a proxy to connect to a computer outside the LAN with AnyViewer:

Step 1. Download and install AnyViewer on both your local and remote computers. Sign up for an AnyViewer account and log in on both devices.

Step 2. On your local device, go to Settings > Network, and fill in the necessary Proxy settings. Then click Enable proxy.

Step 3. Find the remote computer from the device list on the Device tab, and click the One-click control to access a remote desktop over the internet.

★Tips:

Upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise plan is recommended for additional privileges, including but not limited to the following:

More assigned devices for unattended remote access.

Unlimited concurrent sessions.

Faster file transfer speed.

Higher image quality & true color.

Screen walls for better device management.

…

Frequently asked questions

What distinguishes a VPN from a proxy when it comes to remote access?

For remote access, you can choose between a proxy or a VPN. Both offer enhanced security, but there are notable differences. A remote desktop proxy serves as an intermediary, masking your IP address and providing some anonymity. In contrast, a VPN creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, delivering a higher level of security. Your choice between a proxy and a VPN will depend on your specific requirements and the degree of security you need.

How can I know whether my proxy is safe and does not leak my data?

To ensure your proxy is secure and not leaking your data, consider these two key factors:

• Encryption: Verify that your proxy employs robust encryption algorithms to safeguard your data as it travels through the network. Strong encryption, such as the asymmetric ECC 256-bit end-to-end encryption used by AnyViewer, is essential to prevent unauthorized access to your sensitive information.
• Logging Practices: Check whether your proxy server logs any information about your browsing activity. A secure proxy should not log your data, but rather store only anonymous metadata for troubleshooting and maintenance purposes.

By prioritizing strong encryption and minimal logging, you can ensure your proxy is secure and your data remains protected.

When using a public Wi-Fi network for business, is it possible to utilize a proxy for remote access?

Yes, you can use a proxy for remote access while working from a public Wi-Fi network to enhance security. However, it's crucial to follow best practices to ensure your connection is truly secure:

• Verify security features: Make sure the proxy service has robust security measures in place.
• Use end-to-end encryption: This is essential for protecting your data from potential threats.

To ensure the best protection, choose a reputable proxy service with strong encryption and authentication protocols, such as AnyViewer.

How can I resolve frequent problems while utilizing a proxy to gain remote access?

When encountering issues with proxy setup for remote access, follow these troubleshooting steps:

• Check proxy configuration: Verify that the proxy server address and port number are correct and that any necessary authentication credentials are properly entered.
• Disable firewalls or antivirus temporarily: Check if these are blocking the connection by temporarily disabling them.
• Verify proxy server functionality: Ensure the proxy server is working correctly and is accessible from your remote location.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, consult your IT department or contact the proxy provider for further assistance.

The bottom line

In conclusion, remote access proxies like AnyViewer offer essential tools for securely connecting to corporate networks from anywhere. By leveraging proxies such as VPNs, HTTPS, or SSH tunnels, users can ensure safe and efficient remote desktop access over the internet.

AnyViewer simplifies this process with built-in proxy support, facilitating seamless connections and enhanced security. Whether troubleshooting devices outside the firewall or enabling remote work scenarios, integrating a reliable proxy solution ensures businesses maintain productivity and data integrity. Explore the steps outlined to configure and utilize AnyViewer for robust remote access capabilities tailored to organizational needs.