Windows lets you set up proxy settings at the system level, applying them to all browsers and applications. This means you can route traffic through a proxy without configuring each application separately.
Preparation: Gather your proxy details
Ensure you have the necessary InstantProxies credentials available prior to setup:
- Proxy IP address
- Port number (commonly
8800or as specified) - Username and password (for user/pass authentication) OR your authorized IP address (for IP-based authentication)
How to set up a proxy in Windows
Step 1: Access Proxy Settings
Open the Start menu, launch Settings, then go to Network & Internet and choose Proxy.

Step 2: Perform Manual Proxy Configuration
- Under Manual proxy setup, click Set up.

- Turn on Use a proxy server, input your InstantProxies IP in Proxy IP Address filed, set the Port (usually
8800unless specified otherwise), then click Save.
Step 3: Proxy Authentication Setup (If Required)
If you’re using username/password authentication instead of IP whitelisting, you’ll be prompted for credentials when an application connects to the internet for the first time.
- Input your InstantProxies username and password, and click Sign in to proceed.

Step 4: Verify your connection
To confirm your setup, open a browser and navigate to https://whatismyipaddress.com or http://ip-check.net. Verify if the IP shown is the same as your InstantProxies IP.
If so, your system traffic is now going through the proxy.

Troubleshoot proxy setup
Common Issues & Resolutions
-
Connection issues?
- Review your IP and port settings, and ensure your device IP is whitelisted to the InstantProxies dashboard if you’re using IP authentication.
-
Stuck on a 407 Authentication Error?
- Ensure that the browser or application is properly configured with the correct username and password.
-
Proxy Not Working in App?
- Certain applications ignore system proxy settings, so manual configuration or a proxy manager tool may be required.
Turn off system proxy on Windows
This removes the proxy and returns your normal internet access.
- Open Settings under Network & Internet, go to Proxy, and disable “Use a proxy server.
