Using Microsoft Edge with a Proxy Server
Are you curious about the features of the new Microsoft Edge browser, introduced by Microsoft to replace Internet Explorer? This browser offers a unique user experience with increased running speed and more business-focused features. And recent upgrades include versions for iOS and Android that provide synchronized features between your desktop and mobile phone. But as with any browser, it’s important to get a good proxy server to improve data security and maintain greater levels of privacy. This article shows you the steps to using Microsoft Edge with a proxy server.
Authorizing/Authenticating
You’ll need to authorize your IP address to use the proxy, which will send your data requests and get back responses while protecting your identity. You can either authorize your IP address or provide basic access authentication.
With most proxy services, you can authorize your IP address to the proxy via the service’s dashboard; or you can use the service’s account-management API.
IP address authentication
- On your dashboard, click a link that reads like “Add an IP.”
- Fill and submit the form with your own IP address.
Now your IP address will be able to access the proxy without any further steps. If you add another IP to your proxy service account, it should be promptly authorized to the proxy. Be sure you do this first before you make requests from that IP to avoid a temporary block.
Basic access authentication
Besides IP address authentication, the other way to initiate HTTP proxy requests is basic access authentication. For this authentication, you’ll need your username and password to enter in your configuration below.
Configuring the proxy server
Like most other browsers, Edge does not have the option for a browser-specific proxy setup. So, you need to configure your computer’s proxy settings.
On your Windows 7 or 10 device, proceed as follows:
Step 1: Launch Edge and click on the three dots in the top right-hand corner.
Step 2: Click on Settings and then click on System.
Step 3: Click on Open your computer’s proxy settings.
Step 4: In the Manual proxy setup section, click on Use a proxy server. Enter the IP address and port number provided by your proxy service.
Step 5: Click Save.
For your Mac, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Launch Edge and click on the three dots in the top right-hand corner.
Step 2: Click on Settings and then click on System.
Step 3: Click on Open your computer’s proxy settings.
Step 4: Select Web Proxy (HTTP) and then enter the IP address and port number provided by your proxy service of choice.
Step 5: Next, select Secure Web Proxy (HTTPS) and again enter the same IP address and port number. Click OK.
Step 6: You may also be required to enter your Mac user password. After doing that, click Always Allow and then click Apply.
However, since you are configuring the computer’s proxy settings, you can also directly access the network preferences as shown below.
Mobile device settings
On Android:
Step 1: Open your Settings and select WiFi.
Step 2: Long tap on the connected network.
Step 3: Expand Advanced options and select the Proxy option.
Step 4: Enter the IP address and port number of your proxy server. Tap Save.
Safety first
Although great browser features have made surfing the internet better, you can’t neglect security. Signing up with a reliable proxy server is a good choice. Not only does it enhances the security of your devices while also providing online privacy, but it gives you peace of mind that is more than worth it.
