How To Check the Proxy Server Settings on Your Computer
If you feel your Internet connection is slower than what it should be or you notice that certain websites get blocked while browsing, it could be because all your Internet traffic is going through a proxy server.
A proxy server is basically just another computer that sits between you and your ISP. It’s usually configured in corporate environments to filter web traffic going to and from employee computers. In this article, I’ll show you how you can check your proxy settings to see if your computer is indeed using a proxy server or not.
In most cases, you won’t actually be able to turn off the proxy server, since it is controlled by an administrator. However, there are times when personal computers accidentally or maliciously get set to use a proxy server.
Check Proxy Settings in Windows
In Windows, most browsers will use the proxy settings that are set on the computer. Each browser has a settings page to adjust proxy settings, but they normally just link to the settings dialog in Windows itself.
In Windows 10, there are two ways to go about changing the settings: via the Settings app or via the traditional Control Panel. I’ll mention both methods here because the Control Panel method is what you’ll need to use for Windows 7, 8 or Windows Vista.
Windows 10 Settings App
Click on Start and then click on the gear icon (Settings) at the far left. In Settings, click on Network & Internet.
In the left-hand pane, click on Proxy at the very bottom.
Here you have all the settings that are related to setting up a proxy in Windows. It’s basically split into two configurations: either Automatic or Manual proxy setup. In 99% of the cases, everything should be set to Off. If anything is turned on, your web traffic could be going through a proxy.
Control Panel
If you’re using an older version of Windows or if you just like the old way, you can edit the same settings via the Control Panel. Note that whichever way you choose to edit the settings, there are only one set of proxy settings in Windows.
Once you open Control Panel, just click on Internet Options.
In the Internet Options dialog, go ahead and click on the Connections tab and then click on LAN settings at the bottom.
Here you will see all the same settings as in the Settings app shown above. Anything you configure here will show up there and vice versa.
Check Proxy Settings in Mac OS X
If you are using a Mac with OS X, then the procedure is similar. You have to change the proxy settings in System Preferences as this is where most browsers check automatically.
Open System Preferences and click on Network. On the left-hand side, make sure to select the connected or active network connection. You can have different proxy settings for each type of network connection.
At the bottom, click on the Advanced button. Click on the Proxies tab and you’ll see a bunch of different protocols you can configure.
For example, if you click on Web Proxy (HTTP), you’ll be able to enter the proxy server IP address, port number, username and password.
Check Proxy Settings in Linux
In Linux, it really depends on what distribution you are running. Mostly, though, it’s going to be some version of KDE or GNOME. For example, in Linux Mint Cinnamon, which is based heavily on GNOME, you would click on the button and then click on System Settings.
Next, you would scroll down to Hardware and then click on Networking.
Finally, if you click on Network Proxy, you can choose from Automatic or Manual.
This is pretty much the same procedure for Ubuntu also, which uses Unity and GNOME. It’ll be different if you are using a different desktop environment. If you have any questions, feel free to comment. Enjoy!
How do I use a Proxy Server? – What Is My IP Address
Please be aware that the use of proxy servers without the express permission from the owner of the proxy server may be illegal in some states and/or countries. Use them at your own risk.
Use your favorite search engine and search for ‘proxy server list’. You’ll find many sites with lists of proxy servers, their IP address, the port they listen on, and usually what country they are in. Write down a few of them.
You may see references to four different types of proxy servers:
Transparent Proxy
This type of proxy server identifies itself as a proxy server and also makes the original IP address available through the HTTP headers. These are generally used for their ability to cache websites and do not effectively provide any anonymity to those who use them. However, the use of a transparent proxy will get you around simple IP bans. They are transparent in the terms that your IP address is exposed, not transparent in the terms that you do not know that you are using it (your system is not specifically configured to use it. )
Anonymous Proxy
This type of proxy server identifies itself as a proxy server but does not make the original IP address available. This type of proxy server is detectable but provides reasonable anonymity for most users.
Distorting Proxy
This type of proxy server identifies itself as a proxy server, but make an incorrect original IP address available through the HTTP headers.
High Anonymity Proxy
This type of proxy server does not identify itself as a proxy server and does not make available the original IP address.
Please make sure to read about anonymous proxy risks before using a proxy server.
If you need further assistance using proxy servers please post a question in the proxy server forum.
Browser Settings
The following are instructions to configure various browsers to use an HTTP proxy server.
Internet Explorer 6
FireFox
Netscape 8
Opera
Instructions for Internet Explorer 6. 0
On the Tools menu in Internet Explorer, click Internet Options, click the Connections tab, and then click LAN Settings.
Under Proxy server, click to select the Use a proxy server for your LAN check box.
In the Address box, type the IP address of the proxy server.
In the Port box, type the port number that is used by the proxy server for client connections (by default, 8080).
You can click to select the Bypass proxy server for local addresses check box if you do not want the proxy server computer to be used when you connect to a computer on the local network (this may speed up performance).
Click OK to close the LAN Settings dialog box.
Click OK again to close the Internet Options dialog box.
Instructions for Internet Explorer 5
Click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click Internet.
Click the Connections tab, click LAN Settings, and then click to select the Use Proxy Server check box.
In the Address box, type the appropriate proxy server information, and use the following format:
Instructions for Firefox 3. 0
Select the Tools Menu
Select Options
Select the Advanced Icon
Select the Network tab
Under connection select Settings
Under Settings you can chose “Auto-Detect Proxy setting for this network” or “Manual Proxy Configuration”
If choosing “Manual Proxy Configuration” Enter the IP address for the HTTP proxy server
Enter the port of the HTTP proxy server
Click Okay
Instructions for FireFox 2
Select Connection Settings
Select Manual Proxy Configuration
Check Use the same proxy for all protocols
Enter the IP address for the HTTP proxy server
Instructions for Netscape 8. 1
Select General
Select Connection Settings…
Check Manual Proxy Configuration
Enter the proxy server’s IP address in the HTTP Proxy field and the proxy’s port into the Port field.
OK your way out
Instructions for Netscape 7. 1
Select the Edit Menu
Select Preferences
Maximize Advanced
Select Proxies
Choose Manual proxy configuration
Enter the proxy server’s IP address in the HTTP Proxy field and the proxy’s port into the corresponding Port field.
Opera 8. 5
Select Advanced Tab
Select Proxy Servers
Check the box next to HTTP
Enter the proxy server’s IP address in the first box and the proxy’s port in the box after “Port”
Safari 2. 0. 3
Select Advanced
Select Proxies: Change Settings
Check the box next to Web Proxy (HTTP)
Enter the proxy server’s IP address in the first box and the proxy’s port in the box after the “:”
Select Apply Now
Get hidden now. »» I want to hide my IP
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How to set an Android proxy server for Wi-Fi: All you need to know
Do you have to use a Wi-Fi proxy server for Android to access the Internet at school or work? Or maybe you decided to configure an Android proxy server to protect your online privacy. Proxy servers are practical tools that act as intermediaries between you and the rest of the Internet, and it’s easy to configure using one. This tutorial illustrates how to set a Wi-Fi proxy server for Android smartphones and tablets:
NOTE: This guide applies to Android 10, and it was created using Nokia 5. 3 and Samsung Galaxy A51. If you do not know your Android version, read How to check the Android version on your smartphone or tablet. The procedures are similar on most Android-powered devices, although you might come across some small differences, depending on your device’s manufacturer. If you’re using a Samsung smartphone, the Android proxy settings are somewhat different, so don’t miss the dedicated chapter towards the end of this guide.
First things first: About Android proxy settings for Wi-Fi networks
You can use a Wi-Fi proxy server to protect your identity online or access the Internet when you are in a business network. While using the Android proxy, websites don’t identify your specific device, but rather the proxy server you have set for the Wi-Fi connection. If you want to learn more, we already explained, in great detail, what a proxy server is.
Even if you need to use the same Android proxy settings for different Wi-Fi networks, you must set them up one by one. To configure the Wi-Fi proxy settings, Android requires slightly different steps, depending on whether you’re setting the proxy server for an existing connection or a new one. Don’t worry, though; your Android smartphone or tablet remembers the proxy server associated with every Wi-Fi connection, so you only have to do this once. Your network administrator or proxy provider should give you the necessary details to connect.
Wi-Fi proxy settings on Android
If you’re wondering how to run Android apps on proxy Wi-Fi, the answer is a bit more complicated, and it all comes down to how each app was designed. Some apps are programmed to use the Android proxy settings, some, like browsers, can have their individual proxy settings, while others ignore Wi-Fi proxy settings altogether. That is why you could encounter certain apps that don’t work with your proxies. Unfortunately, if an app is not designed to use the Android proxy settings, there is no way to force it.
TIP: If you’re concerned about online privacy and security, you might also be interested to know When to use a proxy and when to use a VPN?.
How to set an Android proxy server for your Wi-Fi network
You can change the Wi-Fi proxy settings on Android to use a specific proxy server each time you connect to a network. As you’re about to see, the steps are similar, whether you’re setting up the proxy for the network you’re currently using or configuring a new connection. To begin, open the Settings app and tap on Network & Internet.
Access Network & Internet from Android Settings
Next, access Wi-Fi to see available wireless networks.
NOTE: To continue from this point, Wi-Fi must be active on your Android device.
Tap on Wi-Fi
You are shown a list of all the Wi-Fi networks that are available in your area. Depending on whether you’re setting the proxy server for an existing connection or a new one, accessing a network’s Advanced options is slightly different. Press the name of the network whose Wi-Fi proxy settings you want to change.
Tap on any network to change its Wi-Fi proxy settings on Android
If it’s a new network, you can now see the Advanced options in the pop-up window requesting a password. Skip the next paragraph and scroll down to the image matching the screen you see.
However, if you’re already connected to that network and tapped on the first entry during the previous step, the next screen shows your Wi-Fi connection’s Network details. Tap on the Edit button in the top-right corner. Its icon looks like a pencil.
Press the pencil button to Edit details about your Wi-Fi network
Either way, in the pop-up window showing your network’s name on top and requesting a password, tap on Advanced options to open a dropdown menu.
TIP: If this is a new Wi-Fi network, you also have to insert a password for it on this screen. Otherwise, the password field shows (unchanged), as seen below.
Access Advanced options to set a Wi-Fi proxy server for Android
The Advanced options expand, revealing the Proxy setting, which displays its default, None, and a down arrow. Tap on it to open the options for configuring the Android proxy server.
In the Proxy section, use the arrow to open a dropdown menu
The resulting menu has three options: None, Manual, and Proxy Auto-Config. Choose whether you want to manually enter the Wi-Fi proxy server or use a proxy auto-configuration address.
Select the configuration type you want
If you choose Manual, the pop-up window reveals three additional fields. Under Proxy hostname, enter either the hostname of the proxy server that you want to use (in the suggested format:) or its IP address.
Enter a proxy hostname
Then, you need to enter the port (the default used by most HTTP proxy servers is 8080). You can also “Bypass proxy for” certain websites if you insert their addresses.
When you’re done setting everything up, tap the option in the bottom-right corner of the pop-up to apply your changes. For existing networks, you must tap on Save, as seen above. For new networks, press Connect, as shown in the next image.
Press Connect or Save to apply your changes
If you choose Proxy Auto-Config, you get access to the PAC URL field. The value that you enter should follow the format:
Proxy Auto-Config only shows the PAC URL option
Enter the URL (web address) for that proxy or its configuration script (PAC file) and tap the button in the lower-right corner of the pop-up. For new networks, tap on Connect, as shown in the screenshot above. Press Save for an existing network, as seen below.
Press Save or Connect to apply your changes
From now on, each time it’s connected to the selected Wi-Fi network, your Android smartphone or tablet uses the proxy server you configured.
How to set a Wi-Fi proxy server for Android on Samsung devices
Samsung has slightly different Wi-Fi proxy settings on their Android devices. Open Settings and tap on Connections.
Access Connections on Samsung Galaxy
Tap the first option on the screen, Wi-Fi.
NOTE: The Wi-Fi option has to be enabled on your Samsung Android if you want to continue.
Access Wi-Fi to see available networks
You are shown a list of all the available Wi-Fi networks. The Current network is displayed on top. Depending on whether you’re setting the proxy server for an existing connection or a new one, accessing a network’s Advanced settings is slightly different. Press on the gear icon next to your Current network or on any of the available connections from the list underneath.
Select a network or use the gear icon next to the Current network
Depending on what you chose, the following screen has different settings, but, in both cases, you should press the Advanced option at the bottom. You can finally see the Proxy setting for the selected network on the next screen. Tap on its default value, None, to reveal other options for configuring the Android proxy server.
Press None to open a dropdown menu
Choose whether you want to manually enter the Wi-Fi proxy server or use a proxy auto-configuration address.
Select a configuration type from the available options
The Manual option reveals five additional fields, but only the first two are required to set up the Android proxy server: under “Proxy host name, ” enter either the hostname of the server you want to use (in the suggested format:) or its IP address; enter a port under Proxy port – the default used by most proxy servers is 8080). Optionally, you can specify web pages to bypass the proxy and establish a direct connection to the web page. Fill in the User name and Password fields if these details are required.
Insert the proxy details and our credentials for it, if required
When you’re done setting everything up, press Save to apply your changes, as seen below.
Tap on Save to use the new Wi-Fi proxy settings
If you choose the Auto-Config setting for your proxy server, you are required to insert the “PAC web address. ” Enter the URL for that proxy or its configuration script, and then tap on Save.
Insert the PAC URL and Save
You are returned to the previous screen. If you’re setting a proxy for a new Wi-Fi network on your Samsung Android, don’t forget to insert a password and press Connect, as seen below.
Finish connecting to a new Wi-Fi network to use the proxy
That was it! Your Android smartphone or tablet should use the proxy server you configured each time it’s connected to the Wi-Fi network.
Why do you use a Wi-Fi proxy server on your Android smartphone or tablet?
Most Android owners only use a Wi-Fi proxy server on their devices if it’s required to access the internet on a business or school network. However, there are users who think of it as a good way to protect their online identity and avoid giving away their location. What about you? Why did you decide to use a Wi-Fi proxy server? Let us know in the comments.
Frequently Asked Questions about what is proxy setting
Should proxy settings be on or off?
It’s basically split into two configurations: either Automatic or Manual proxy setup. In 99% of the cases, everything should be set to Off. If anything is turned on, your web traffic could be going through a proxy.Oct 2, 2017
What do I put for proxy settings?
Use the following syntax for the proxy settings: http://<address>:<port> where <address> is the Web address of the proxy server, and <port> is the port number that is assigned to the proxy server.
What is proxy setting in WIFI?
You can use a Wi-Fi proxy server to protect your identity online or access the Internet when you are in a business network. While using the Android proxy, websites don’t identify your specific device, but rather the proxy server you have set for the Wi-Fi connection.Oct 27, 2020