A proxy server serves as a link between your computer and the internet. When searching for any information online, your request passes via the proxy server to get to the address you have searched for. The proxy server then takes the data you have searched for and sends it to you.

Proxy servers are important and provide many security benefits for internet users. They help many internet users to reduce the probability of being victims of cyber-attacks, and they minimise the possibility of having your online activities tracked by hackers. Oftentimes in organisations, network administrators are responsible for configuring the proxy servers on behalf of employees.  

 

How to Set Up a Proxy Server on Windows

Begin by learning how to find proxy settings on your Windows computer so that you can decide on the proxy server type you can set up. Follow the steps below to do so:

• Go to the Start Windows option and select “Settings”
• Select the “Network & Internet” tab and open your proxy settings by clicking “Proxy”.

 

Setting up proxies on Windows 10 & 11

You can set up proxies manually or automatically on Windows 10 & 11. Do the following to set up proxies automatically.

1. Go to the Settings tab and click to open.
2. Tap the “Network & Internet” option.
3. Go to “Proxy” to see available proxies.
4. In the Automatic Proxy Setup section, turn the “Use Setup Script” option on.
5. Key in the script address as given to you.

To manually set up proxies, follow steps 1,2 and 3 above and do the following:

• Go to the “Manual Proxy Setup” section and turn on the proxy server switch.
• Input the IP address in the “Address” line.
• Key in the port number in the “Port” section.
• Save & close the “Settings” window.

 

Configuring proxies using legacy Windows settings

Legacy Windows refers to the earlier versions of the Windows Operating system which have been supplanted by an updated version of new technology. An example is Windows 7 and to configure proxies on such platforms, you must follow these steps:

1. Press the “Start Menu” and select “Control Panel”
2. Choose “Internet Options” on the Internet & Network section.
3. Go to the “connections tab” and click “LAN settings”.
4. Utilise a proxy server for your LAN and click on Advanced.
5. Insert a Perfect Privacy server of your preference in the HTTP field and enter 3128 as Port.
6. Ensure that the checkbox is activated. Utilise the same proxy server for all protocols and click “OK” to exit the settings dialogue.

To authenticate the proxy server, open your browser and visit a website of your choice. Once you are there, insert your Perfect Privacy login credentials.

Should I use a proxy on my PC?

Yes, proxies are one of the trusted tools that can be used to minimise or completely restrict access to harmful web pages that spread malware. Proxies also have some encryption properties which help to block third parties from stealing your data.

Is it safe to use proxies?

In most cases, paid proxies are safer, more secure and more effective than free ones. When looking for safe proxies, do thorough research and read customer reviews as well.

How to disable proxy settings on Windows?

Go to the “system” section and open “proxy settings”. Go to the “Automatic settings” tab and switch it off. Click on “Save”.

Proxies are a must-have if you wish to browse the internet without third-party surveillance. It is a great idea to deploy proxies and other tools to keep your online trail safe from hackers' eyes. 

• IP address being banned on many websites

This is one of the most popular errors where your IP address gets banned on various websites after you have used it for a while. If these bans are recurring frequently, it might be caused by the fact that you are using an incorrect proxy type.

• Proxy provider failing to connect

This happens when your proxy cannot connect to the internet partially or completely. This may be caused by your proxy provider having problems. Most free proxies have this problem due to a lack of security or infrastructure.‌‌

• Proxies may not be configured for your web browser or Operating System

This is often seen by the user getting an error message if their device is not configured specifically for their proxy. If this is the case, going to your settings and making certain configuration adjustments might be the solution.