How does using a proxy improve efficiency over manual port forwarding?

A proxy handles multiple destinations and protocols through a single rule, avoiding the need to configure individual forwarding rules for each port. For instance, SOCKS proxy tools can dynamically route traffic based on client requests. The [article](/news/penetration-basics-port-forwarding-and-proxying) contrasts proxying with simple forwarding and notes that Go-based tools like EarthWorm support both patterns.