So, a proxy server is a go-between for your computer and the internet. It hides your computer's address online, like hiding your home address from strangers. This makes it tougher for websites to keep tabs on you, giving you a privacy shield. I've been using proxies for some time, mainly to check out stuff online that's not usually available where I live and to keep my web visits private.
I use a residential proxy because it gives me an internet address that looks like it's from a typical house, not some big company or anything. This makes things smoother and less likely to get blocked. It's a handy way to stay under the radar.