How to configure proxy settings in Windows

Proxy servers act as intermediaries between client devices and external networks, filtering traffic, enhancing privacy, and offering controlled access to restricted resources. They can help organizations enforce network policies and improve security by channeling data through a single point of management. In Windows 11, configuring a proxy server can be critical for compliance, troubleshooting, or optimizing connectivity.

Windows 11 includes both automatic and manual proxy configuration options. Automatic detection uses network protocols to retrieve configuration details or applies a predefined setup script, streamlining the process for most users. Manual proxy configuration lets administrators specify exact server addresses and ports for scenarios where strict or specialized settings are required.

Properly configured proxy servers protect sensitive data, ensure policy compliance, and maintain efficient communication between internal networks and external services. They facilitate content caching, content filtering, and provide a layer of anonymization when routing traffic. Adopting the correct settings is essential for maintaining reliable and secure network operations.

1. Open the Settings application by clicking the Start button and selecting the gear icon.

   Alternatively, press Win + I on the keyboard to open Settings directly.

2. Select Network & Internet from the Settings menu.
3. Click on Proxy in the left-hand menu.
4. Toggle Automatically detect settings to On under Automatic proxy setup.

   This allows Windows to automatically detect proxy settings from the network.

5. If required, toggle Use setup script to On and enter the script address.

   Enter the URL provided by your network administrator in the Script address field.

6. Toggle Use a proxy server to On under Manual proxy setup.
7. Enter the proxy server Address and Port in the respective fields.

   For example, Address: proxy.example.com, Port: 8080.

8. Optionally, check Don't use the proxy server for local (intranet) addresses.
9. Click Save to apply the settings.
10. Open a web browser and navigate to a website to verify internet connectivity.
11. Visit an IP checking site to confirm the proxy is active.

    You can visit https://www.whatismyip.com/ to check your IP address.