I have read some on Proxy Servers, but I am still confused.

[Steven Vollom]

Are there free Proxy Servers?  Can a person still use a torrent program, 
and use it safely?  Does a Proxy Server provide similar benefit to a 
firewall?  Is the setup easy enough for a newbie?  Will a Proxy Server 
work through a Router? 

I would like to increase the security of the incoming internet signal 
through my router, then relax internal security.  I am looking for the 
best way to achieve this.  Thanks in advance.

Cudos, Cheers!, Ciao Bello, and Cordially my friends,

Steven