Browser Proxy Settings

TL;DR

This guide shows you how to make sure your web browser uses the correct settings for accessing both internal company websites (intranet) and the wider internet. It covers checking proxy settings, bypassing the proxy for specific sites, and troubleshooting common issues.

Checking Your Current Proxy Settings

1. Find Browser Settings: The location of these settings varies depending on your browser.
   • Chrome/Edge: Click the three dots (menu) > Settings > System > Open your computer’s proxy settings.
   • Firefox: Click the three lines (menu) > Settings > General > Network Settings > Settings…
2. Automatic Proxy Configuration: Look for options like “Automatically detect settings” or a URL field. If enabled, your browser is getting proxy information from a script (usually provided by your IT department). Note this URL if present – you might need it later.
3. Manual Proxy Configuration: If “Use a proxy server” is selected, you’ll see fields for the proxy address and port number. Write these down; they are crucial for troubleshooting.

   Address: 192.168.1.100
   Port: 8080

Bypassing the Proxy for Intranet Sites

You usually *don’t* want to use a proxy server when accessing internal company websites (the intranet). Here’s how to tell your browser which sites should bypass it.

1. Find Bypass List: In your browser’s proxy settings, look for an option called “Bypass proxy server for local addresses” or similar.
2. Add Intranet Addresses: Add the following to the bypass list (separated by semicolons):
   • localhost – For accessing things on your own computer.
   • 127.0.0.1 – Another way to refer to your own computer.
   • Your company’s intranet address(es). This might be something like intranet.yourcompany.com or a range of IP addresses (e.g., 192.168.0.*). Ask your IT department for the correct addresses.

   localhost;127.0.0.1;intranet.yourcompany.com

3. Save Changes: Make sure to save the changes in your browser settings. You may need to restart the browser for them to take effect.

Forcing a Proxy for Specific Internet Sites (Rarely Needed)

In some cases, you might *need* to use the proxy server even for sites on the internet. This is less common and usually set up by your IT department.

1. Browser Extensions: Some browsers allow extensions that can force traffic through a proxy. Check the browser’s extension store.
2. Proxy Auto-Config (PAC) File: Your IT department might provide a PAC file URL. Enter this URL in your browser’s proxy settings if prompted.

   http://proxy.yourcompany.com/proxy.pac

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Can’t Access Internet:
   • Check your proxy address and port number are correct (ask IT).
   • Temporarily disable the proxy server to see if you can access the internet directly. If so, there’s a problem with the proxy itself.
   • Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
2. Can’t Access Intranet:
   • Make sure you’ve added the correct intranet addresses to the bypass list.
   • Check that “Bypass proxy server for local addresses” is enabled.
   • Try accessing the intranet site using its IP address directly (ask IT for the IP).
3. Slow Internet Speed:
   • The proxy server might be overloaded. Contact your IT department.
   • Check for browser extensions that could be interfering with network traffic.

cyber security Considerations

Always follow your company’s cyber security policies regarding proxy servers and internet access. Do not attempt to bypass security measures without authorization.