# Introduction to Data Proxy

A Data proxy is a simple middleware component that acts as a pipeline or connector between a data provider and the SEDA network by holding an API key that has access to the data provider’s services. Additionally, Data Proxies verify conditions to inbound HTTP requests, checking that the requester is part of the SEDA network and that the provider’s fees have been paid. Additionally, they allow providers to add an SECP private key to the proxy, which would be used to sign the data before it’s forwarded back to the requester, adding additional security and verifiability.

In the end, the proxy nodes allow data providers to expose their entire suite of APIs through a single, one-time deployment and earn value based on onchain demand with minimal technical overhead or maintenance.

## Request Flow

<figure><img src="/files/aL7oIQYJCKqc3K6fDBys" alt=""><figcaption><p>How data is requested via the SEDA Network.</p></figcaption></figure>

## Response Flow&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/kVEQpDSAnFamD0U55ip8" alt=""><figcaption><p>How data is served from the Data Proxy to the SEDA Network.</p></figcaption></figure>

<sub>**⚠ Important**</sub><sub>: Data providers that deploy or operate a data proxy connected to the SEDA Network do so independently and at their sole risk. SEDA provides its infrastructure and services strictly “AS IS”, “AS AVAILABLE”, and “WITH ALL FAULTS”, without any warranties of any kind, whether express or implied. SEDA expressly disclaims all liability, including but not limited to, any reliance on the content, information, or materials available on its sites, documentation, or services, any loss, error, outage, security incident, inaccuracy, or unavailability arising from or related to its infrastructure, services, or data. Data providers are solely responsible for their own infrastructure, data accuracy and legality, security, regulatory compliance, and for any claims, damages, or liabilities (including those bought by users or third parties) arising from or related to their proxies or data. Nothing herein constitutes legal, financial, investment, or other professional advice, nor does it any form of contract, solicitation, recommendation, commitment, or offer to buy or sell. Access to and use of any part of SEDA is subject to the most current SEDA</sub> [<sub>Terms of Service</sub>](https://docs.seda.xyz/home/resources/legal/terms-of-service)<sub>.</sub>


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