Today, almost everything is done online. Whether it’s watching a new hit series from abroad or purchasing a thoughtful gift for your loved ones, knowing how to properly set up your internet is paramount. Most people don’t like this notion since they think it’s too hard and only specialists can do it.
However, it is not as difficult as you might think. You can access your connection settings by following this guide. We’ll also walk you through the process of configuring a proxy server without the need for technical jargon. You only need to understand how to use the buttons; you don’t need to understand how the wiring operates.
First Things First: What Makes People Use Proxies?
Before we dive into settings and menus, let’s first find out what makes using a proxy desirable. To put it briefly, it routes your internet traffic via a different server.
The server may be located in a country different from yours; therefore, a proxy serves as an intermediary between your device and that foreign server to access the internet. When using one, websites are unable to determine your IP address or location. Some common reasons people use proxies include:
- Staying anonymous when using the internet
- Avoiding geo-restrictions while accessing content
- Taking care of several accounts on social media
- Safeguarding information on public Wi-Fi
You don’t have to be a tech expert to set one up. You just need a few details from your proxy provider and a willingness to click through a few menus.
Step 1: Locate Your Device’s Connection Settings
Time to learn how to install one of these tools. To set up proxy settings on a Mac or Windows computer, follow these steps:
For Windows Users:
- Click on the Start menu
- Select Settings, then go to Network & Internet
- Look for the “Proxy” option in the sidebar
For Mac Users:
- Open System Preferences and select the Network tab
- Choose your internet connection and click on “Advanced”
- Locate the “Proxies” section
Step 2: Enter the Information
The next step to configure your proxy tool is to fill in the necessary values. You will need both a server address and a port number. Typically, these will appear as a numerical string, such as 192.168.1.1:8080. However, they may also occasionally appear as a URL.
Be careful, as even a single typo can result in connection problems. Double-check everything as you enter it. You can also select which websites or services shouldn’t use the proxy. This is where you can configure things for specific apps.
Step 3: Verify That It Is Functioning
Launch a web browser and navigate to a website that displays your IP address once you save the new settings. Well done! If the number has changed, you are now using a proxy. If nothing changes, check the settings once more.
You can also test performance. A good proxy shouldn’t slow down your connection in a noticeable manner. If things feel sluggish, the proxy might be overloaded — or it could be a free one, which often comes with trade-offs.
Quick Heads-Up: You Might Need a Login
Not all proxies are “plug and play.” Some ask for a username and password. If your provider uses authentication, your system will usually prompt you for it the first time you try to visit a website.
When asked, just fill out the information and store it safely. If it doesn’t ask for credentials, then you probably have an open or unrestricted proxy. If that’s the case, make sure it’s safe and reliable.
When It Makes Sense to Set It Up This Way
You might wonder, why not just use a browser extension? Extensions are great for casual use, but setting up a proxy in your system’s actual connection settings means every app — not just your browser — goes through the proxy. That’s useful if:
- You run business software or tools that connect to the web
- You need to manage multiple logins on one device
- You’re using apps that don’t support browser extensions
- You just want better control over all your traffic
This type of configuration is particularly useful for data scraping, marketing, and remote team members. A proxy is the right tool to go for if you travel globally.
Final Thoughts
Although changing your connection settings may seem like something only techies do, it’s actually not. Anyone can configure their device’s internet settings.
And the best part? You’re in control when you do so. You decide where your traffic goes, what IP the world sees, and how protected you want to be. If you haven’t yet found the address and port for your proxy, don’t worry — we’ve got a simple walk-through you can check out; read here for more.
