How does a proxy server enhance network privacy?

A proxy server enhances network privacy primarily by acting as an intermediary for requests. When a client sends a request to access a resource on the internet, the request is first directed to the proxy server. The proxy then forwards that request to the intended server, effectively masking the client's IP address and other identifying information. This intermediary function means that the external server only sees the proxy's IP address, which helps protect the client's identity and location.

Furthermore, because the proxy server can manage and control incoming and outgoing traffic, it can enforce privacy policies, such as blocking certain content or providing anonymous browsing capabilities. This not only helps in maintaining the client's privacy but also minimizes the risk of tracking by external servers.

While other options touch upon aspects of network functionality, they do not contribute to privacy enhancement in the same way. For example, directly connecting clients to servers does not provide any anonymity, filtering out unwanted data packets does not necessarily enhance privacy, and although encryption of web traffic does improve security, it is not a function performed by all proxy servers. Therefore, acting as an intermediary for requests is the key feature that clearly illustrates how proxy servers are utilized to enhance network privacy.