How Can I Create a Simple HTTP Proxy Server in C#?

Building a Simple HTTP Proxy Server in C#

To effectively build an HTTP proxy in C#, a solid understanding of its operation is crucial. Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Client (Browser) Setup: The browser must be configured to send all requests through the proxy server, specifying the proxy's IP address and listening port (e.g., 127.0.0.1:80). This redirects HTTP requests to the proxy instead of directly to the target website.

2. Proxy Request Handling: The proxy server listens for incoming connections. Upon receiving a connection, it parses the incoming HTTP headers to determine the requested resource. The proxy then acts as an intermediary, forwarding the request to the appropriate web server.

3. Proxy Response Delivery: After receiving the response from the web server, the proxy relays this response back to the client browser. This involves establishing a separate connection to the client's IP address and port to transmit the HTTP response, completing the proxy interaction.

Keep it Simple: Avoid unnecessary complexity. While libraries like HttpListener might seem attractive, a simpler approach is often better:

• Establish a TCP listener on a designated port.
• Parse incoming HTTP requests to extract essential information, such as the target host.
• Open a TCP connection to the extracted host.
• Efficiently forward data between the client and the web server.

This straightforward method simplifies development and ensures broader compatibility with standard protocols, including Keep-Alive connections and SSL/TLS encryption.

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