1. Why Android Proxy Settings Stop Working
Problems with proxy typically derive from one of three sources:
incorrect settings, network issues, or application/system conflict.
Let’s break them down.
1. Incorrect Proxy Configuration
This is the #1 reason proxies fail.
Common mistakes include:
Wrong proxy IP address
Wrong Port (for example, typing 808 instead of 8080)
Misspelled hostname
Wrong username/password (for authenticated proxies)
Even one incorrect character will break the connection.
2. Network Connectivity Issues
Your proxy might be right but your Wi-Fi or data connection isn’t stable.
Typical causes that originate from the network side:
Poor WiFi signal
Router problems
ISP-level blocking
Network firewall restrictions
Public WiFi limitations
Always test basic connectivity before assuming that the proxy is broken.
3. Software/App Conflicts
Some applications override or block Android proxy settings.
Common culprits:
VPN apps
Security apps
Ad-blockers
Recently installed tools that modify network traffic
Sometimes even system updates reset proxy behavior.
⭐ 2. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
1. Restart & Reconnect
Start with the basics:
Restart your phone
Turn WiFi OFF/ON
Forget the WiFi network → reconnect
Disable proxy → enable again
This alone fixes 30–40% of user complaints.
2. Recheck Your Proxy Settings
Go to:
Settings → Network & Internet → WiFi → ‘Your Network’ → Proxy
Check:
Correct hostname/IP
Correct port number
Correct authentication, if required
Correct protocol (HTTP/HTTPS/SOCKS depending on your provider)
3. Attempt with a different network
Connect to the WiFi network of your choice and set up a proxy.
If it works elsewhere → The WiFi network is blocking proxy traffic.
4. Disable Conflicting Apps
Disable the following temporarily:
VPN
Ad-blocker
Antivirus/firewall apps
If the proxy suddenly works → conflict confirmed.
5. Clear Network Settings
Go to:
Settings → System → Reset Options → Reset WiFi, Mobile & Bluetooth
(This does NOT delete files. It only resets network configs.)
6. The Last Resort: Factory Reset
Only do this when everything else fails.
Backup your data first.
Settings → System → Reset → Factory Reset
This solves deep system-level conflicts.
⭐ 3. When the VPN Is the Problem
If you’re using a VPN + proxy at the same time, expect issues.
Why?
VPN encrypts all traffic.
Many VPNs override local proxy settings
Routing through a VPN can bypass or conflict with proxy servers.
Fix:
Use either proxy OR VPN, not both – unless your provider specifically supports chained connections.
⭐ 4. Preventing Proxy Issues (Pro Tips)
✔ Keep a copy of your proxy credentials
Store:
IP/hostname
Port
Username/password
Use a password manager or note.
✔ Keep your Android updated
Security patches fix network bugs.
✔ Update VPN/security apps
Older versions create conflicts.
✔ Avoid free proxies
They are slow, unstable, and often steal data.
⭐ 5. Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
Problem Possible Cause Fix
No internet, Wrong IP/Port, Re-enter credentials
Proxy disconnects App conflict Disable VPN/Ad-blocker
slow browsing server overload switch to a different server
Authentication error Incorrect login Check username/password
Works on another network
WiFi – Blocking proxy
Change network settings
⭐ 6. FAQ (Human-Readable)
1. Why isn’t my Android proxy working?
Due to incorrect settings, problems with the network, or app conflicts.
2. Does a VPN affect proxy settings?
Yes, VPNs override local proxy routing.
3. How do I check if the proxy server is down?
Disable proxy → try loading websites. Proxy servers are offline if they work.
4. How do I disable proxy on my Android?
WiFi → Network → Proxy → Select None
5. Why does proxy only apply to one WiFi network?
Android assigns proxy settings per WiFi network.