How to Locate Your Proxy Server Address

SwiftProxy
By - Emily Chan
2025-05-26 15:19:31

Every second, millions of internet users rely on proxy servers to protect their privacy, bypass restrictions, and speed up connections. Proxy servers aren't just technical tools—they're your frontline for safer, smarter browsing.

However, if you don't know how to find your proxy server address, you might as well be locked out of these benefits. No worries. We'll walk you through exactly what a proxy address is and show you how to locate it on any device or browser. Let's dive in.

What Exactly Is a Proxy Server

Think of a proxy server as a middleman between you and the internet. When you make a request—say, visiting a website—the proxy sends that request for you, then forwards the response back. This simple relay masks your true IP address, enhancing privacy and sometimes boosting speed through cached content.

To connect through a proxy, you need three key pieces of info:
IP Address: The proxy server's unique digital location.
Port: The channel it uses to send and receive data.
Protocol: The language they speak—HTTP, SOCKS5, or HTTPS.

If your proxy requires it, you'll also need a username and password. Knowing these is critical. Without them, your connection won't work.

Types of Proxies You Should Know

Not all proxies are created equal. Here's a quick rundown:
Transparent Proxies: Your real IP is visible. Useful for basic filtering but not privacy.
Anonymous Proxies: Your IP is hidden, perfect for secure browsing, bypassing geo-blocks, and multi-account tasks.

And by source:

Proxy Type

Pros

Cons

Datacenter

Fast, cheap

Easy to block, less trusted

ISP

Reliable, trusted

More expensive

Mobile

Dynamic IPs, low block risk

Costly, slower

Residential

Very trusted, geo-precise

Complex setup, pricey

 

Protocols also vary:
HTTP: Simple, web-only traffic.
SOCKS5: Handles all traffic types—gaming, streaming, large files.
HTTPS: Secured traffic, great for sensitive data.

Static proxies keep the same IP all the time—ideal for payment or corporate tasks.
Dynamic proxies rotate IPs, ideal for scraping or bulk automation.

Why Use a Proxy Server

You get it—privacy, security, and speed. But beyond that, proxies let you:

Operate anonymously online, avoiding tracking or data breaches.

Control and monitor network use at work, blocking harmful sites.

Access content blocked in your region instantly.

Automate social media or data scraping without hitting IP bans or CAPTCHAs.

In short, proxies keep your internet activity safe, flexible, and powerful.

How to Find Your Proxy Server Address

Knowing your proxy details is essential. Whether troubleshooting or setting up new software, here's how to find your proxy address on the most popular platforms.

Browsers

Google Chrome:
Chrome uses your operating system's proxy settings.
Open Chrome > click the three dots (top right) > Settings.
Scroll down > System > Open your computer's proxy settings.
Your proxy IP and port appear here if set manually.

Safari (macOS & iOS):
Safari > Preferences > Advanced > Change Settings (next to Proxies).
See your proxy details and ports. Changes affect your entire system.

Firefox:
Firefox runs its own proxy settings.
Menu (three stripes) > Settings > General > Network Settings > Settings.
Find proxy host, port, and credentials here. This is browser-specific.

Microsoft Edge:
Same engine as Chrome, uses system proxy.
Menu (three dots) > Settings > System and Performance > Open your computer's proxy settings.

Mobile Devices

iOS:
Proxy settings are per Wi-Fi network.
Settings > Wi-Fi > Tap the (i) next to your network > Scroll to HTTP Proxy.
Choose Off, Manual (enter server and port), or Automatic (auto-config URL).

Android:
Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Long-press network name > Modify Network > Proxy > Manual.
Your proxy details will show here if configured.

Computers

Windows:
Start > Settings (Win + I) > Network & Internet > Proxy.
Manual setups show IP and port; script setups show a URL instead.

MacOS:
Apple menu > System Preferences > Network > Select connection > Advanced > Proxies tab.
Check your active proxy protocols and addresses here.

Linux (example: XFCE):
Control Center > Network Proxy.
Or open Terminal and run: env | grep -i proxy
This command lists proxy variables if configured.

Final Thoughts

You now know how to find your proxy server address across devices and systems. This knowledge lets you check your setup, troubleshoot with confidence, and secure your connection like a pro. Remember, proxies aren't just techy extras—they're tools for safer, smarter internet use.

About the author

SwiftProxy
Emily Chan
Lead Writer at Swiftproxy
Emily Chan is the lead writer at Swiftproxy, bringing over a decade of experience in technology, digital infrastructure, and strategic communications. Based in Hong Kong, she combines regional insight with a clear, practical voice to help businesses navigate the evolving world of proxy solutions and data-driven growth.
The content provided on the Swiftproxy Blog is intended solely for informational purposes and is presented without warranty of any kind. Swiftproxy does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or legal compliance of the information contained herein, nor does it assume any responsibility for content on thirdparty websites referenced in the blog. Prior to engaging in any web scraping or automated data collection activities, readers are strongly advised to consult with qualified legal counsel and to review the applicable terms of service of the target website. In certain cases, explicit authorization or a scraping permit may be required.
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