Authenticating Users Inside and Outside the Library: Implementing a Proxy Server

摘要

Libraries supporting digital resources must provide access to proprietary databases for off-campus users. It is also often important to restrict access to given databases or to classes of users from within the library. Vendors usually control access through some combination of Internet Protocol (IP) address and user ID and password. The process of authenticating and authorizing users creates an access management system. One of the most effective means for implementing an access management system today is through a Web proxy server. The technique for setting up the Netscape Proxy Server is described, along with the proxy server's advantages and disadvantages.