7 Ways to Change Proxy Settings – wikiHow
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This wikiHow teaches you how to change the settings of a proxy network to which you’re currently connected. You can do this on the desktop version of most browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Internet Explorer, and Safari, as well as in your iPhone or Android settings. You can usually find the information that you need to connect to your selected proxy on the proxy’s information page.
1Open Google Chrome. It’s a red, yellow, green, and blue sphere icon.
2Click ⋮. This icon is in the top-right corner of the page. A drop-down menu will appear.
3Click Settings. It’s near the bottom of the drop-down menu.
4Scroll down and click Advanced. You’ll find it at the bottom of the page.
5Scroll down and click Open proxy settings. This option is in the “System” group of settings that’s near the bottom of the page.
6
Edit your proxy settings. Depending on your operating system, this step will vary:
Windows – Click LAN settings, then edit the URL in the Address section and/or change the port used to connect in the Port section.
Mac – Select the proxy you want to edit on the left side of the page, then change the URL in the Address field, the username and/or password in the Username and Password fields, and the bypassed sites in the Bypass field.
7Click OK, then click Apply. Both are at the bottom of the respective windows. Doing so will save your updated proxy settings.
1Open Firefox. It’s a blue, globe-shaped icon with an orange fox on it.
2Click ☰. This option is in the top-right side of the window. A drop-down menu will appear.
3
Click Options. It’s a gear-shaped icon in the drop-down menu.
On a Mac, click Preferences here instead.
4
Click Advanced. It’s the bottom tab on the left side of the Firefox window.
If you’re on a Mac, the Advanced tab is at the top of the Preferences window.
5Click the Network tab. You’ll see it at the top of the Advanced page.
6Click Settings…. It’s to the right of the “Connection” heading. Doing so will open your current proxy’s settings.
7
Edit your proxy settings. Change the following fields as needed:
HTTP Proxy – Type in a new proxy address, or change the existing one to be accurate.
No Proxy for – Enter addresses that you don’t want to use the proxy for.
8Click OK. Doing so will save your proxy settings and exit the proxy menu.
1
Open Start. Click the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
2
Click Settings. It’s a gear-shaped icon in the lower-left side of the Start menu.
3Click Network & Internet. This globe-shaped icon is in the Settings page. Doing so will open the Network & Internet page.
Click the Proxy tab. It’s at the bottom of the column of options on the left side of the Network & Internet window.
You may have to scroll down on the left-hand column to see this tab.
5Scroll down to the “Manual proxy setup” section. It’s at the bottom of the page.
Edit your proxy’s information. Change the following fields as needed:
Address – Replace or edit the proxy address here.
Port – Change the port that the proxy uses to connect through your Firewall.
Exceptions – Add sites that you don’t want to use your proxy for (e. g., Facebook).
7Click Save. It’s at the bottom of the page. Doing so will save your proxy settings.
1Open Internet Explorer. It’s a blue “e” with a yellow band on it.
Click Settings. This option is in the upper-right corner of the Internet Explorer window.
3Click Internet options. It’s near the bottom of the drop-down menu.
4Click the Connections tab. This is at the top of the Internet Options window.
5Click LAN settings. This button is under the “Local Area Network (LAN) settings” heading near the bottom of the page.
6Check the “Use a proxy server for your LAN” box. It’s below the “Proxy server” heading.
Address – Edit the proxy’s URL.
8
Click Apply. Doing so saves your changes.
These settings will also apply to Google Chrome.
Open the Apple menu. It’s in the top-left corner of the screen.
2Click System Preferences. This option is near the top of the drop-down menu.
3Click the Network icon. It resembles a globe in the System Preferences menu.
4Click Advanced. It’s in the middle of the Network page.
5
Click the Proxies tab. You’ll see it at the top of the window.
You may first have to click the lock icon and enter your administrator name and password.
Web Proxy Server – Edit or replace the proxy’s URL.
Username – Change the username you use to log in with the proxy (only do this if you changed the username on the proxy’s site first).
Password – Update the password you use to log in.
Bypass – Enter the addresses of any sites that you don’t want to use the proxy for.
7Click Apply. It’s a blue button at the bottom of the page. This will save your settings.
Open your iPhone’s Settings. This grey app with gears is typically found on the Home Screen.
2Tap Wi-Fi. It’s near the top of the Settings page. This will open the Wi-Fi menu.
Select a network. Tap the network to which you want to connect with a proxy.
Skip this step if you’re already connected to the network that you want to use.
You may need to enter the network’s password before continuing.
4Tap ⓘ. It’s to the right of the network. This will open the network’s settings.
5Scroll down to the “HTTP PROXY” section. You’ll find this near the bottom of the page.
6Tap Manual. It’s a tab at the bottom of the page.
Server – Edit or replace the address for the current proxy.
Port – Change the port that the proxy uses to connect through your firewall.
Authentication – Tap this switch to enable the Username and Password information fields.
Username – Edit the username you use to connect to the proxy.
Password – Edit the password you use to connect to the proxy.
8Tap < Wi-Fi. It's in the top-left corner of the screen. This will save your proxy settings.
Open your Android's Settings. This gear-shaped app is in the App Drawer.
2Tap Wi-Fi. You'll find this option near the top of the Settings screen.
Select a network. Tap the network to which you want to connect via proxy.
Skip this step if you're already connected to the network.
You'll need to enter the password for the network if it isn't one you've connected to before.
4Tap and hold the Wi-Fi network name. This will open a pop-up menu.
5Tap Modify network. It's near the bottom of the pop-up menu.
6Tap Advanced options. This drop-down box is in the middle of the page.
7Tap Manual. Doing so will allow you to change your proxy's settings manually.
Change your proxy's settings. Edit the following fields as needed:
Proxy hostname - Edit or replace the address of the proxy.
Proxy port - Change the port through which the proxy connects.
Bypass proxy for - Add addresses that you don't want to use the proxy for. Addresses should be typed with commas, but no spaces, separating them.
9Tap Save. It's at the bottom of the screen. This will save your settings and exit the proxy menu.
Add New Question
Question
Can I use Google Chrome to change proxy settings?
You can change it with some plug-ins, but not within the regular version of Google Chrome. If you are running Windows, just change it from Network Settings.
Does it work the same on TOR?
I don't think you would need to change the proxy on TOR because it is already a secure browser. You probably CAN do it though if someone has caught on to your TOR activity. Just do the same type of algorithm you would in Firefox because TOR is similar to that.
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Make sure you don't change your proxy settings without first consulting your proxy's subscription.
Inputting the wrong address, username, password, or port can result in your proxy not working.
About This Article
Article SummaryX1. Open Chrome.
2. Click the three-dot menu.
3. Click Settings.
4. Click Advanced.
5. Click Open proxy settings.
6. Click LAN settings (PC only).
7. Edit your proxy settings as needed.
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How to Set Up a Proxy Server on Your PC, Mac, or Web Browser
As for what a proxy server is, think of your proxy as a gateway between you and the internet. When you visit a website, the proxy server communicates with it on behalf of your browser. Then, when the website answers, the proxy forwards the data to you.
Proxy servers can do many jobs. These include scanning for viruses, acting as a firewall, speeding up your connection by caching, and hiding your public IP address.
You have lots of choices when it comes to internet privacy. There’s a lot to learn, such as understanding what a reverse proxy is or distinguishing between VPNs, proxies, and Tor. If you want dependable protection and encryption for your internet traffic, consider a VPN. Avast SecureLine VPN hides your data from snoopers and protects your online identity, and it’s also much easier to set up than a proxy server.
There’s no similar guarantee of protection with a proxy, especially if you’re using one of the many web-based proxies available online. These public proxy services may slow down your service, and even worse, they may be insecure. Instead, we suggest you learn how to set up a proxy server on Windows, MacOS, and the most popular web browsers.
If you’re configuring your browser to use a proxy operated by a company, school, or other similar organization, some of these instructions may require you to contact your IT staff. This is the case particularly when you are asked to manually enter a script name, formally called a proxy auto-configuration (PAC) file. You may also need to type in the proxy’s IP and port numbers. In both cases, turn to your IT helpdesk if you haven’t been given this information. If you’re using a proxy that you’ve purchased or created on your own, you’ll already have these details.
How to set up a proxy server in Windows
Here’s how to set up your Windows PC to use a proxy server on Windows 8 or Windows 10:
Press the Windows + I keys simultaneously to access the Windows Settings menu.
On Windows 10, click Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy. On Windows 8, click Settings > Network Proxy.
Under the Manual Setup section, set the “Use a Proxy Server” toggle to On. Make sure the “Automatically detect settings” toggle is also on.
By default, Windows automatically checks to see if your business, school, or local network already has an automatic proxy server setup ready to run for you. If it does, Windows tells you its name, and encourages you to follow its instructions.
Assuming that Windows finds a PAC file, in the Automatic Proxy Setup, set the Use Setup Script switch to On.
Enter the script address and click Save.
Congratulations! You’re done and ready to proxy.
How to manually set up a proxy in Windows 8 or Windows 10
Not every organization sets up the process automatically. If you need to set up a proxy manually in Windows 8 or Windows 10, here’s how to do it.
To access the Windows Settings menu, press the Windows + I keys simultaneously.
On Windows 10, click Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy. On Windows 8 systems, click Settings > Network Proxy.
Scroll down to “Manual proxy setup” and set the “Use a Proxy Server” switch to On.
In the address field, type the proxy server name or IP address. In the Port field, enter the proxy port number. You can get these from your IT support tech.
If the proxy server is protected by a password, select the “Proxy server requires password” checkbox. Enter your account name and password in the Username and Password fields.
Click Save.
That’s all there is to it. You’re now set up to use your proxy server on Windows. The next time you use the internet, you’ll be using the proxy server.
How to set up a proxy server on a Mac running macOS
Here’s how to set up a proxy server on a Mac running macOS 10. 15 Catalina. Other macOS versions use essentially the same commands.
Open System Preferences. One way to get there is to click on the Apple menu > System Preferences.
Choose the Network icon to adjust connectivity settings.
Select the type of network you use, which is usually Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
Click Advanced > Proxies.
To automatically configure your proxy server settings, select Auto Proxy Discovery. Click on Secure Web Proxy (HTTPS). Type in the proxy server address and its port number in the fields on the right.
To use a proxy auto-configuration (PAC) file, select Automatic Proxy Configuration and enter the proxy address into the URL field.
Click OK to save the proxy setup.
You’re now ready to surf the internet via your proxy.
How to set up a proxy in Google Chrome
By default, Chrome uses your macOS or Windows proxy. To change your proxy settings from within Chrome, take the following steps:
Open the Chrome toolbar and select Settings.
Scroll down to the bottom of the display. Click on Show advanced settings…
Scroll down to “System” and choose Open your computer’s proxy settings.
Next, go back to the instructions for your operating system listed above to set up your proxy server settings and follow them.
In short, to set up a proxy server in Google Chrome, you’re just doing the first few steps in the browser, and then completing the process in your machine’s operating system.
How to set up a proxy server in Safari
Like Chrome, Safari’s default setting is to follow the proxy configurations within your OS. Here’s how to change your proxy settings from within Safari:
Click on Safari in the browser toolbar. Choose Preferences.
Click on the Advanced tab. Under “Proxies, ” click Change settings…
Next, you must go back to the instructions for macOS listed above to set up your proxy server settings and follow them.
How to set up a proxy server in Edge
Edge is Windows 10’s built-in web browser, and unless you tell it otherwise, it’ll use your proxy configurations in Windows. The latest versions of Edge are based on Chrome, so the configuration is similar. The following steps show you how to set up a proxy from within Edge:
In Microsoft Edge, at the top-right corner, click the Menu button. Select Settings.
Scroll down to the Advanced settings section and click the View advanced settings icon.
Click the Open proxy settings button.
Next, go back to the instructions for Windows 10 listed above, then follow them to configure your proxy server settings.
How to set up a proxy server in Firefox
Unlike other web browsers, Firefox doesn’t default to using your system’s proxy settings. You’ll need to change your proxy from within Firefox:
Open the Firefox menu and select Options.
Click on the Advanced icon.
Select the Network tab.
In the Connection Settings, select, Auto-detect proxy configuration for this network. When prompted, enter the proxy address.
Alternatively, in the Connection Settings, you can select, Use system proxy settings. If you choose that option, Firefox uses the proxy settings in your operating system.
Click OK to save your settings.
How to set up a proxy server in Internet Explorer
Please keep in mind that Internet Explorer is an outdated web browser. Instead, switch to a browser that’s still receiving regular updates and support, such as Avast Secure Browser, Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari. Though since quite a few people and companies still use Internet Explorer (IE), you should know how to set things up when necessary.
As with other browsers, IE defaults to using your Windows proxy configurations. Here’s how to set your proxy up from within IE.
Open the IE toolbar and select Internet Options.
Open the Connections tab.
Select LAN Settings.
Check the “Use a proxy server for your LAN” box.
When prompted, enter the proxy server name and port number.
How to set up a proxy server in Android
With Android, you must configure proxy settings for each network you use. In addition, the proxy will only be used by your web browser. Other internet applications may choose to use or ignore the proxy based on their own internal settings. This is another reason why VPNs tend to be better choices — when you use one, it covers all the internet traffic from your device.
Open Android’s Settings and tap Wi-Fi to view a list of Wi-Fi networks.
Long-press the Wi-Fi network name for which you want to change the proxy settings. Tap Modify Network.
Tap Advanced Options.
Tap Manual to change your proxy’s settings. Enter your hostname and proxy port.
OR
If you have a Proxy Auto-Config (PAC) file, select Proxy Auto-Config and Android will prompt you to enter the PAC address.
Tap SAVE.
How to set up a proxy server in iOS
Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
Select the active Wi-Fi connection.
Under HTTP proxy, click Configure Proxy.
Tap Manual to change your proxy’s settings. Enter your host name, proxy port, and, if needed, your authentication username and password.
If your provider supports Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Protocol (WPAD), tap Automatic. If required, enter the Proxy Auto-Config (PAC) file location.
Tap back to the Wi-Fi selection window.
Protect your online anonymity the easy way
Proxy servers have their uses, particularly within large organizations. However, setting one up requires a bit of work, and this is a job typically entrusted to network administrators and other IT professionals.
Avast SecureLine VPN is an internet privacy solution that’s both simpler to use and far more protective of your identity and online activities. A single click or tap of a button gets you encryption that keeps you anonymous online and prevents anyone from snooping on your sensitive personal info, such as your online banking, health info, or private photos. Enjoy true online privacy on your desktop, laptop or mobile device with a VPN that’s as convenient as it is secure.
How to Change or Disable Your Proxy in Chrome | ExpressVPN
Last updated: August 12, 2021Too frustrated to read this page? Talk to a HumanA proxy server is an intermediary between your computer and the internet, often used to hide your real location and allow you to access websites that would otherwise be blocked. However, not all proxies offer the same privacy protections as a VPN. When you’re using ExpressVPN, you don’t need to run an additional you’re having trouble connecting to the internet, it’s possible that you are using a proxy The steps below will not help you access online streaming services. If you’re unable to access a service because a VPN or proxy is detected, please contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate instructions on how to disable your proxy in Chrome, please refer to the section appropriate to your computer. I am on…Windows MacDisable proxy for Chrome on WindowsClick the Chrome Menu in the browser toolbar. Select Settings. Click Advanced. In the System section, click Open your computer’s proxy settings. (For Windows 7 and Windows 8 or 8. 1 users, this will open the Internet Properties window. ) Under Automatic proxy setup, toggle Automatic detect settings Off. Under Manual proxy setup, toggle Use a proxy server Off. Click help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate to topDisable proxy for Chrome on MacClick the Chrome Menu on the browser toolbar. Then select Settings. At the bottom of the screen, click Advanced. Under System, click Open your computer’s proxy settings. This will open the Network Settings window. In the Proxies tab, under Select a protocol to configure, uncheck every protocol. Click OK. You can close the settings windows help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate to topFurther Issues? If you have other issues, including not being able to access certain websites and services, contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate to topWas this article helpful?