Before we discuss what a free proxy list is and when to use it, let's discuss what the word proxy implies in computer jargon. A proxy server is a computer that acts as an intermediately between a user's computer and the internet. When you as a user connect your computer to the internet, this is what happens. You might be using a Wi-Fi modem to connect your computer to the internet. Your Wi-Fi modem is connected to a server that is connected to the internet. Now the computer that connects you via your Wi-Fi to the internet is a proxy server. It is acting as an intermediately to connect you to the internet.

Large organizations have their internal networks, and they have proxy servers to connect them to other networks like the internet. In a situation where you don't have access to the internet, and your mobile phone is connected to its service provider, you turn the hot spot feature on of your mobile phone and use it as a modem to connect your computer to the internet. The mobile phone service provider's internet server acts as your proxy server.