Change Google Chrome Proxy Settings Manually In 5 Easy Steps

With over 422 million victims, you’ll need a proxy to avoid the threats of identity theft and cybercrime. 

A proxy is a server you can use for more accessible, secure, and private web browsing. It acts as your representative and connects to the Internet for you. 

Web browsers like Google Chrome usually do not include a proxy server by default. You need to turn it on manually or use a Chrome extension to use a proxy. 

Read further to learn how to manually change your proxy settings in Google Chrome or other browsers.

How To Manually Change the Proxy Settings On Google Chrome?

Google Chrome doesn’t have proxy server settings built into it. It will redirect you to your operating system's proxy settings if you want to configure it manually. 

Follow the steps below to change your Google Chrome proxy settings for Windows and MacOS:

For Windows Users

Here's a guide on manual proxy configuration on Google Chrome if you're a Windows user:

Step 1: In the top-right corner of your browser, click the three-dot icon.

Step 2: Select Settings.

Step 3: Search for 'proxy' in the search bar. Click Open your computer's proxy settings.

Step 4: Turn off the Automatically detect settings.

Step 5: Toggle the Use a proxy server option. Enter the proxy address and port you want to use.

For MacOS Users

Here's a guide on the manual proxy setup in Google Chrome if you're using MacOS:

Step 1: Click the three-dot icon in your web browser’s top-right corner.

Step 2: Select Settings.

Step 3: On the search bar, type ‘proxy.’ Then, select 'Open your computer's proxy settings.' 

Step 4: Toggle web proxy (HTTP) on the Proxies tab.

Step 5: Write down the proxy server address and the port.

Automatically Change Proxy Settings With Proxy Managers

If you do not want to handle the manual proxy configuration, then proxy managers can help you. 

Proxy managers let you enjoy more secure, private, and accessible web browsing by changing your proxy settings automatically. 

They also come in the form of web browser extensions, which makes the configuration process more convenient. These browser extensions allow you to manage proxy servers on Google Chrome.

Below are some of the best proxy manager extensions for Chrome:

Proxy Switchy Auto

ProxySwitchy Auto is a free proxy extension for Google Chrome. This tool automatically switches between proxy settings depending on URL patterns. 

Proxy Switcher and Manager

Proxy Switcher and Manager is another free proxy extension. It allows users to switch between different proxy servers. As a result, you can use several IP addresses while browsing.

FoxyProxy

FoxyProxy is a popular browser extension with a feature called GeoShift. This feature lets you switch among 100 countries while browsing. It also features IP addresses from various cities worldwide.

Pros And Cons Of Using A Proxy In Google Chrome

Proxies on Google Chrome come with different advantages and disadvantages.

Below is a table showing the benefits and downsides of using proxies in Google Chrome and browsing in general:

Conclusion

A proxy is essential for safer, faster, and more accessible web browsing. Google Chrome does not have built-in proxy settings, so users must manually change it by going to the operating system's settings. 

You can also rely on automatic proxy managers if the configuration process seems like a hassle.