For the quickest and most direct access to a web site, it is typical to connect right to it using a web browser and standard Internet connection. However, there are often situations that require an indirect means of accessing data. Two common reasons for this are to maintain anonymity, thus disguising the source of web traffic, and to evade content filtering. This sort of filtering is often found at corporations, libraries, universities and other locations where it is desired that the users' access to sites be limited.

HideMeBro.com is a type of proxy web site or server that acts as an intermediary between the user and the web site that he or she wishes to access. The proxy is accessed through a web browser, where the user is expected to enter the URL, or address, of the site that he or she wishes to access. The user will then be connected to the site without revealing their location, Internet service provider, identity or other potentially sensitive information. Other proxies are configured at the operating system level or are entered into the network settings dialog box of the user's web browser. Using this approach allows access to sites on ports other than those used by HTTP and HTTPS.