How to Set Up a Proxy Server & Change Proxy Settings on Mac

Discover how to set up your proxy settings on macOS after reading this article.

A proxy server functions as an intermediate server that directs connection requests through it. Individuals utilize proxies to manage both incoming and outgoing connections, browse the internet anonymously, modify their apparent location, and automate numerous tasks.

This instructional guide will demonstrate the process of configuring and disabling a proxy server on devices operating on the macOS operating system.

How to Set Up a Proxy Server on Mac

Step 1. Open System Preferences. 

To accomplish this, simply click the Apple logo positioned in the top-left corner and then opt for “System Preferences.”

Step 2. Open the Network settings. 

You can locate them in the lower-left section of the System Preferences window or by directly entering their name into the search field.

Step 3. Select Advanced…

It can be found in the lower-right corner of the window.

Step 4. Select the Proxies tab and enter your proxy settings. 

You can do this by selecting your proxy type and manually inputting the proxy server’s details, including the IP address (or hostname for backconnect proxies) and port.

If your provider offers IP whitelisting, there may be no need to input a username and password; otherwise, you should include those credentials.

For most commercial proxy services, you will typically need to enable one or more of the following options: Web Proxy (HTTP), Secure Web Proxy (HTTPS), SOCKS Proxy, or a combination.

Auto Proxy Discovery is primarily utilized in controlled environments like workplaces or educational institutions.

Automatic Proxy Configuration permits a URL input for a script that automates proxy setup. However, most commercial proxy providers do not provide such scripts.

Step 5. Test your proxies.

Visit “Show My IP” or ipinfo.io to verify if your IP address and location have been altered.

You can refer to our article on the subject for more comprehensive proxy testing.

Congratulations! You have effectively configured a proxy server on your Mac computer.

How to Turn Off Proxies on Mac

Proceed with steps 1 through 3, and then deselect the checkboxes to discontinue the use of a proxy server.

What Does Bypass Proxy Settings Mean?

“Bypass Proxy Settings” implies that the specified domains or IP addresses will not utilize the proxy server for connections. For instance, if “google.com” is entered, the connection will directly reach the website without passing through a proxy server.

The default entries in the box are “*.local” and “169.254/16”. These values are intended for local network connections where utilizing a proxy server is unnecessary. It is advisable to retain these default entries without any alterations.