Windows Proxy Settings

Implementing a proxy server in Windows can enhance your network security and management by controlling and monitoring internet traffic. Below is a step-by-step process for setting up a proxy server in Windows, focusing on using the built-in options within Windows 10 or 11.

Note: This guide assumes you're setting up a basic proxy for internet access. If you're setting up a more complex system (e.g., a corporate network), the steps may involve additional configurations in server software or hardware appliances.

Step 1: Obtain Proxy Server Information

Before you begin, you need to have the proxy server's IP address and port number. If authentication is required, you also need the username and password. This information is typically provided by your network administrator or the service provider of the proxy server.

Step 2: Open Proxy Settings

1. Windows 10: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy.

2. Windows 11: Open Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy.

Step 3: Configure Manual Proxy Setup

1. In the Proxy settings, under the 'Manual proxy setup' section, turn on 'Use a proxy server'.

2. You can get the information from your Geonode dashboard. Copy the address indicated in your 'Host' by clicking on the copy icon.

3. Enter the IP address and port number of your proxy server in the fields provided.

Port Number: 9001 (This is the specific port you'll need to use for the connection. Make sure to enter it exactly as shown.)

4. If you want the proxy to bypass certain addresses (like local network addresses), enter them in the `Use the proxy server except for addresses that start with the following entries. Use semicolons (;) to separate the entries' fields.

5. If you want to access a local server without a proxy, turn on the Don’t use the proxy server for local addresses check box.

6. Click 'Save' to apply the changes.

7. If your proxy requires a username and password, unfortunately, Windows built-in settings do not directly support proxy authentication. You might need a third-party application to manage this, or you can configure the applications you use (like web browsers) to prompt for authentication when accessing the proxy. For example, go to youtube.com and a pop-up window will appear asking for your account credentials. Enter your account’s “Username” and “Password”. Then, click on “Sign In”.

Step 4: Configure Proxy for Specific Applications (Optional)

Some applications, especially web browsers, have their proxy settings. You may need to configure these applications individually to use the proxy server. This is common in browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and others. Typically, you'll find these settings in the application's 'Options' or 'Settings' menu under a 'Network' or 'Connection' section.

Step 5: Verify Proxy Configuration

To ensure the proxy server is working correctly, open your web browser and try to navigate to a website. If the setup is correct, you should be able to browse as usual. If the website does not load, review your proxy settings to make sure all information was entered correctly. Additionally, if your proxy requires authentication, make sure the application you're using is configured to prompt for these credentials.

Step 6: Monitor and Adjust Settings as Needed

After setting up your proxy, monitor your network connectivity and application performance. You may need to adjust proxy settings, add more sites to the bypass list, or troubleshoot connectivity issues.