How to Use Proxy Server

Level of difficulty: Intermediate

Proxy servers, also known as a firewall, are computers situated between the client and server. The client-server is a relationship between two programs, a client program that makes a service request to a server program. There are several uses for proxy servers. The first is that it enables to speed up network traffic by caching files or pages often used and by relieving the server load. A proxy server or firewall also serves as a censor or filter certain websites and its content. Schools and offices use proxy servers to prevent users from accessing inappropriate websites. Proxy servers also scan and prevent known harmful files or malware to prevent them from affecting the client. Lastly, proxy servers can provide anonymity for the client.

Materials Needed:
- Internet Explorer or Firefox Mozilla
- Internet Connection
- Proxy Server Details
Step 1
Establish proxy server settings by using the Web browser Mozilla Firefox. Open Mozilla Firefox by clicking on the 'Start' button on the lower left corner of your Desktop. Navigate through the options or click 'All Programs'. Select the 'Mozilla Firefox' icon or option by clicking on it.
Step 2
Once the Mozilla Firefox Web browser launches, click the 'Tools' button near the upper left corner. On the scroll-down option, choose 'Options'.
Step 3
On the 'Options' pop-up menu, choose on the 'Advanced' option on top. Select the 'Network' tab.
Step 4
Click on the 'Settings' button. Choose the 'Manual proxy configuration' option. Fill out the configuration details and press 'OK'.
Step 5
If you do not have a proxy server address to use. You may find a list of free proxy servers, like www.proxy4free.com, by using the Internet.
Step 6
Establish proxy server settings by using the Web browser Internet Explorer. Open Internet Explorer by clicking on the 'Start' button on the lower left corner of your Desktop. Navigate through the options or click 'All Programs'. Select the 'Internet Explorer' option or icon by clicking on it.
Step 7
Once the Internet Explorer Web browser is launched, press the 'Tools' button near the upper left corner. Select 'Internet Options' on the drop-down options.
Step 8
On the 'Internet Options' pop-up menu, select the tab 'Connections' and click the 'LAN Settings'. Choose the option that best suits your preference. Then press 'OK'.
Step 9
Repeat or perform Step 5 to configure your Internet Explorer Web browser if necessary.