> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.711proxy.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.711proxy.com/faq/residential-proxies/how-do-residential-proxies-work.md).

# How do residential proxies work?

Residential proxies work by routing your internet traffic through an intermediary server, which changes the IP address of your connection request. Residential proxies differ from other types of proxies because they connect to real residential desktop devices, which act as intermediaries for your connection.

Here's how residential proxies work:

1\. Your internet traffic is sent through the intermediary server.

2\. The server assigns a different IP address to your connection request.

3\. As a result, your IP address is hidden, and you appear as a regular user with a different IP address.


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