ezProxy

Pros

• SQLite DB for improved DNS caching performance
• Customizable limits on HTTP upload file size
• Enhanced UI for proxy cascading and FTP delimiter settings
• Advanced logging with better monitoring and troubleshooting features
• New options for dial-up networking and rule management

Cons

• May have a steep learning curve for new users
• Elevated features set may be unnecessary for basic home use
• Transition from MS Access to SQLite may require adjustments for some users

An advanced proxy server solution for all your networking needs.

Introduction to ezProxy

ezProxy stands out as a comprehensive proxy server software designed to serve a variety of networking requirements. The software provides the means for internet connectivity sharing and access control, catering to both home and small to medium-sized business environments. Additionally, ezProxy emphasizes improvement in internet access efficiency and security with its array of robust features.

Feature-Rich and Improved Performance

One of the key updates in ezProxy is the integration of SQLite DB for DNS caching, phasing out the reliance on file cache systems. This move suggests an improvement in performance related to speed and reliability, as SQLite is renowned for its fast, lightweight architecture that reduces latency and overhead.

The software now includes the ability to limit HTTP upload file size, which is a critical feature for administrators seeking to manage network bandwidth and avoid congestion due to large file transfers. Moreover, modifications to the online duration calculation method have been implemented to remove overlaps, which potentially offers a more accurate assessment of user connectivity times.

Enhanced User Interface and Management

The proxy cascading GUI within ezProxy has seen enhancements, notably remembering previous settings to streamline repetitive configuration changes. This kind of intuitive memory functionality saves time and reduces the margin for error during setup adjustments.

For FTP usage, a new GUI has been introduced to modify delimiters, allowing for better control over file transfers and directory listing formats, which is especially useful when dealing with varying FTP server configurations.

Logging and Monitoring Advancements

A pivotal upgrade to ezLog includes support for SQLite DB format files, moving away from former support of MS Access MDB formats. This change reflects a modern approach to logging, as SQLite is more contemporarily designed to handle vast amounts of log data more efficiently.

Furthermore, the action log format has been revised to include 'service' and 'return code' sections, providing more granular insight for troubleshooting and monitoring. The HTTP action logs have been expanded to support Squid log formats, thereby enhancing compatibility and extending support within the existing infrastructure of many network environments.

Network Connectivity and Rule Management

EzProxy adds an 'always dial' option for dial-up networks, suggesting increased flexibility for remote connectivity. This feature could prove essential in systems where a persistent connection is required despite the traditional limitations of dial-up infrastructures.

Administrators are allowed greater control with the ability to delete entire rule sets. This bulk action capability can streamline policy changes and maintenance procedures. For improved clarity and oversight, ezProxy now shows the full URL path in the HTTP log, which is a critical enhancement for detailed traffic analysis.

Conclusion

EzProxy succeeds in advancing its feature set while addressing performance and management aspects. The shift towards SQLite DB, in particular, shows a concentration on enhancing efficiency and scalability. The user interface improvements and expanded logging capabilities demonstrate a commitment to providing administrators with powerful tools for network management and security.

Pros

• SQLite DB for improved DNS caching performance
• Customizable limits on HTTP upload file size
• Enhanced UI for proxy cascading and FTP delimiter settings
• Advanced logging with better monitoring and troubleshooting features
• New options for dial-up networking and rule management

Cons

• May have a steep learning curve for new users
• Elevated features set may be unnecessary for basic home use
• Transition from MS Access to SQLite may require adjustments for some users