How to Use Chrome Browser Proxy Settings

2. Go to System.

3. Click Open your computer’s proxy settings.

As Chrome doesn’t have in-app proxy server settings, you’ll be redirected to your operating system’s native proxy settings.

4. Once redirected, add your proxy details.

4.1. On Windows, enable the "use a proxy server" option and specify the address and port, as shown here

4.2. On macOS, choose a protocol and specify a proxy server, port, and credentials, as shown here.

NOTE: beware that these proxy settings will apply system-wide, not just to your Chrome client alone.

How do I disable Chrome proxy settings?

After finishing proxy-related tasks, make sure to disable proxies to avoid interference with other applications. Simply remove all the previously set up proxy and firewall settings (undo the changes). For specifics, refer to the dedicated sections in Windows and macOS proxy integration tutorials.

The dangers of not using a Chrome proxy

Each internet-connected device has an Internet Protocol (IP) address. It’s a sequence of numbers (similar to a house having an address number) assigned to you by your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Every website you visit will know your IP address along with your general geographic location. Tracking your IP address helps websites keep a record of your web activity by using cookies. Whenever you search for something or shop online, you’re tracked to personalize and show you ads that should fit your taste.

On top of that, when you connect to Wi-Fi (especially the free ones coffee shops usually have), your data can be easily hacked.

Why is free Wi-Fi dangerous? Establishing a network connection doesn’t require authentication, creating fantastic opportunities for hackers to gain access to unsecured devices on the same network. This way, cybercriminals can steal sensitive data or execute malware attacks.

How a Chrome proxy helps to protect you

Proxies work as a filter between you and the internet. When you use a proxy, your internet requests travel through the proxy server and only then connect to the internet.

While standing between you and the internet, a proxy server appears as a different IP. While it answers the question of how to hide an IP address, as long as you use a Chrome proxy, you’ll have a secure web session.

Setting up your proxies with a proxy manager

Another way of setting up your proxies is through a proxy manager. Proxy managers are great if you want a simplified interface for turning on and off your proxies without the need for manual proxy configuration each time.

Oxy Proxy Extension and FoxyProxy can help you set up proxies for Chrome quickly. Proxy managers offer browser extensions with which changing Oxylabs Residential and Datacenter Proxies won’t be an issue.

Wrapping up

In tandem with web browsers, Oxylabs Residential or Datacenter Proxies will make your online activities private and secure. For more integration examples with the most popular web browsers, check our Firefox, Safari, and Edge proxy integration guides.

Choosing the right proxy type to suit your specific task is essential. If you want to learn more about which type is more suited to your needs, check our article on the differences between Datacenter and Residential proxies.

Please be aware that this is a third-party tool not owned or controlled by Oxylabs. Each third-party provider is responsible for its own software and services. Consequently, Oxylabs will have no liability or responsibility to you regarding those services. Please carefully review the third party's policies and practices and/or conduct due diligence before accessing or using third-party services.