In a configuration where transparency is required, which device should the engineer set up?

A proxy server is the ideal device for a configuration requiring transparency. It acts as an intermediary between clients and servers, handling requests and responses on behalf of the client. This setup can be beneficial for various applications, such as web filtering, caching, and monitoring, all while maintaining the appearance of a direct connection to users.

The transparency of a proxy server allows it to perform its functions without requiring any specific configuration on the client side. Users remain unaware that their requests are being processed through the proxy, ensuring seamless interaction with the network. This ability to operate in the background while still providing value aligns perfectly with scenarios that demand transparent operations.

Other devices, such as routers, firewalls, and hubs, serve different primary purposes. Routers are designed for directing network traffic and managing data packets between networks. Firewalls focus on security by actively managing and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Hubs simply connect multiple devices in a network without any intelligence, making them less suitable for transparent configurations focused on data handling and security.