GlossaryWeb ScrapingIntermediate

Rotating Proxy

A rotating proxy automatically assigns a different IP address from a pool for each request or on a set interval, spreading traffic across many IPs to avoid blocks.

Last updated May 28, 2026

Definition

A rotating proxy draws from a pool of IP addresses and hands out a different one either on every request or at a fixed time interval. By distributing requests across many IPs, it mimics organic traffic from many users and dramatically reduces the chance of rate-limiting or bans.

How rotation is configured

Most providers offer a single 'gateway' endpoint that rotates automatically behind the scenes, plus a 'sticky' option that pins one IP to a session for a few minutes. Rotation pairs naturally with residential and mobile proxy pools.

Examples

1

Pointing a scraper at a single rotating gateway like gate.provider.com:7000

2

Rotating a new IP every request while crawling thousands of product pages

Common Use Cases

High-volume web scraping
Avoiding rate limits and IP bans
Distributing load to look like many users
Aggregating data from protected sites

Frequently Asked Questions

A static proxy keeps the same IP; a rotating proxy automatically changes IPs per request or interval to spread traffic and avoid blocks.
Use a sticky session instead of rotation when a task must keep the same IP across multiple steps, such as logging in and completing a checkout.