The embodiments of the present invention provide a method for heartbeat packet processing by using a proxy, an apparatus, and a communications system. The method includes: receiving, by a host, a first heartbeat packet sent by a first application in a client, where the client is a terminal that accesses the host by using a short range communications technology; and determining, by the host according to the first heartbeat packet and a first preset list, whether the first application is included in the first preset list. Thus, an objective of saving power for the host and the client can be achieved.