How to Fix ERR_PROXY_CONNECTION_FAILED (Web Browsers)
Quick Answer
The ERR_PROXY_CONNECTION_FAILED error indicates that your web browser was unable to connect to a proxy server configured on your system or network. The fastest fix often involves checking and disabling proxy settings in your browser or operating system.
What Causes This Error
- Incorrect proxy settings configured in the web browser or operating system.
- A proxy server that is offline, misconfigured, or experiencing network issues.
- Firewall or antivirus software blocking the connection to the proxy server.
- Malware or unwanted software altering proxy settings.
- Network connectivity problems preventing access to the proxy server or the internet.
- VPN software interfering with network proxy configurations.
Step-by-Step Fixes
1Disable Proxy Settings in Web Browser
- Open your web browser's settings or preferences.
- Navigate to the 'Network' or 'Proxy' section. This is often found under 'System' or 'Advanced' settings.
- Locate the option for 'Proxy settings' or 'LAN settings'.
- Ensure that 'Use a proxy server for your LAN' or similar options are unchecked. Select 'Automatically detect settings' or 'No proxy' if available.
- Save the changes and restart your browser to apply the new settings.
2Check System-Wide Proxy Settings (Windows)
- Open the 'Run' dialog by pressing 'Windows Key + R'.
- Type 'inetcpl.cpl' and press 'Enter' to open 'Internet Properties'.
- Go to the 'Connections' tab and click on 'LAN settings'.
- Uncheck 'Use a proxy server for your LAN (These settings will not apply to dial-up or VPN connections)' and ensure 'Automatically detect settings' is checked.
- Click 'OK' to close the 'LAN Settings' dialog, then 'OK' again to close 'Internet Properties'.
3Check System-Wide Proxy Settings (macOS)
- Open 'System Settings' (or 'System Preferences' on older macOS versions).
- Click on 'Network' in the sidebar.
- Select your active network connection (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and click 'Details' (or 'Advanced').
- Go to the 'Proxies' tab.
- Uncheck all proxy protocols (e.g., Web Proxy (HTTP), Secure Web Proxy (HTTPS), SOCKS Proxy) that are enabled. Ensure 'Auto Proxy Discovery' or 'Automatic Proxy Configuration' is unchecked unless specifically required by your network administrator.
- Click 'OK' or 'Apply' to save the changes.
4Disable Firewall or Antivirus Temporarily
- Locate your firewall or antivirus software icon in the system tray or notification area.
- Right-click the icon and look for options to 'Disable' or 'Turn off' the software temporarily.
- Confirm the temporary disablement. Note that this may leave your system vulnerable, so re-enable it after testing.
- Attempt to access the website again. If the error is resolved, configure your security software to allow browser access or adjust its proxy settings.
- Re-enable your firewall and antivirus software immediately after testing.
Advanced Fixes
Scan for Malware and Unwanted Software
- Download and install a reputable anti-malware program if you do not have one (e.g., Malwarebytes, Windows Defender).
- Run a full system scan to detect and remove any malicious software or potentially unwanted programs (PUPs).
- Pay close attention to scan results that indicate browser hijackers or programs that modify network settings.
- Follow the anti-malware program's instructions to quarantine or remove detected threats.
- After the scan and removal process, restart your computer and recheck your browser and system proxy settings.
Reset Network Settings
- Open 'Command Prompt' as an administrator (Search for 'cmd', right-click, 'Run as administrator').
- Type 'netsh winsock reset' and press 'Enter'.
- Type 'netsh int ip reset' and press 'Enter'.
- Type 'ipconfig /release' and press 'Enter'.
- Type 'ipconfig /renew' and press 'Enter'.
- Type 'ipconfig /flushdns' and press 'Enter'.
- Restart your computer after executing these commands to ensure all changes are applied.
Check VPN Software Configuration
- If you are using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) client, open its application.
- Look for settings related to 'proxy', 'LAN settings', or 'split tunneling'.
- Ensure that the VPN is not forcing a proxy connection that is unavailable or incorrect.
- Try temporarily disabling the VPN and then attempting to access the website.
- If the error resolves with the VPN disabled, consult your VPN provider's support for configuration advice or consider using an alternative VPN server or client.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ERR_PROXY_CONNECTION_FAILED mean?
The ERR_PROXY_CONNECTION_FAILED error indicates that your web browser or operating system is configured to use a proxy server, but it cannot establish a connection with that server. This prevents your browser from accessing the internet through the specified proxy.
Why would my computer be using a proxy server?
Your computer might be using a proxy server for several reasons: it could be a requirement on a corporate or school network, it might have been manually configured for privacy or access control, or it could be due to malware or unwanted software altering your network settings without your knowledge.
Is it safe to disable proxy settings?
For most home users, disabling proxy settings is generally safe and often resolves internet connectivity issues. On corporate or educational networks, disabling a required proxy might prevent you from accessing internal resources or the internet. If you are on such a network, consult your IT administrator before making changes.
Can a VPN cause ERR_PROXY_CONNECTION_FAILED?
Yes, a VPN can sometimes cause this error. Some VPN clients may configure their own proxy settings or interfere with existing ones. If your VPN is not functioning correctly or is misconfigured, it might lead to the browser failing to connect through the proxy it expects.