How to Fix “The Proxy Server Isn’t Responding” Error on Windows

If you’re a Windows user, you might have encountered a frustrating error preventing you from accessing the internet: “The proxy server isn’t responding.” This issue can cripple your ability to browse the web, stream content, or access critical online services. But don’t worry—this comprehensive guide will walk you through how to diagnose and fix this error with clarity and precision.

What Causes the Error?

Before diving into the fixes, it’s essential to understand what triggers this error. A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your computer and the internet. When a proxy configuration is incorrect or compromised, Windows may fail to establish a proper connection, resulting in this error message.

Common causes include:

• Misconfigured proxy settings
• Internal malware or adware hijacking the proxy
• Network issues or incompatible third-party software
• Corrupted system files or Windows settings

Now, let’s explore multiple reliable solutions to help you resolve this issue and restore normal internet functionality.

1. Check Your Proxy Settings in Windows

The first and most common solution is to manually disable the proxy server setting if it was turned on by a program or configuration script.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type inetcpl.cpl and hit Enter to open Internet Properties.
3. Navigate to the Connections tab and click LAN settings.
4. Under Proxy server, uncheck the box that says “Use a proxy server for your LAN.”
5. Ensure that “Automatically detect settings” is checked.
6. Click OK and restart your browser.

This basic adjustment often solves the issue immediately if a rogue setting is to blame.

2. Scan for Malware or Adware

Some types of malware or adware can modify your proxy settings without your knowledge, redirecting your internet traffic and causing connection issues.

Here’s how to safeguard and clean your system:

1. Download a reputable antivirus software like Malwarebytes or Bitdefender.
2. Run a full system scan and remove any threats found.
3. Restart your PC and recheck your proxy settings after removal.

Ensuring that your system is clean from malware is crucial to avoid proxy-related disruptions in the future.

3. Reset Internet Settings

If your settings are deeply misconfigured and you can’t isolate the issue manually, resetting everything to default may help.

1. Go back to inetcpl.cpl using the Run dialog.
2. Click on the Advanced tab.
3. Click Reset… under the Reset Internet Explorer settings section.
4. Follow the prompts and restart your PC afterward.

Note that this will revert all browser customizations and security levels to default, so use it when other options fail.

4. Use System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupt Windows system files can also play a role in proxy server issues. Running the System File Checker can help identify and repair these problems.

1. Press Windows + X and choose Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Type the following command and press Enter:
   sfc /scannow
3. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take several minutes.
4. If corrupt files are found and fixed, restart your computer.

This scan ensures your core operating system files are intact and correctly configured.

5. Restore Windows to a Previous State

If the error started recently, using a Windows Restore Point can help revert your PC to a time before the problem existed.

To use System Restore:

1. Type rstrui into the Start menu’s search box and press Enter.
2. Choose a restore point from before the issue occurred.
3. Confirm and let the process complete, then reboot your machine.

This method is effective when recent software installations or changes might have triggered proxy issues.

6. Disable VPN or Third-Party Proxy Services

Some users employ VPNs or proxy applications for privacy. While these tools are legitimate, they can also interfere with Windows’ built-in networking.

If you’re using a VPN or any third-party proxy service, try the following:

• Temporarily disable or uninstall the VPN.
• Restart your browser and test your internet connection.

If the problem is resolved, consider configuring the VPN more carefully or choosing a more compatible provider.

7. Modify Windows Registry (Advanced)

Warning: The Windows Registry is a critical component. Proceed only if you’re comfortable editing it, and always back it up first.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings
3. On the right panel, delete these values if they exist:
   • ProxyOverride
   • ProxyServer
   • ProxyEnable (set to 0 instead of deleting, if unsure).
4. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

This procedure clears manual proxy entries that might be stuck due to malware or previous configurations.

8. Check Browser-Specific Settings

Some browsers maintain their own network settings independent of Windows. Ensure no proxy is enabled at the browser level.

For Google Chrome:

1. Go to Settings > System.
2. Click Open your computer’s proxy settings.
3. This will open the Windows proxy interface covered earlier.

However, if you’re using Firefox:

1. Settings > General > Network Settings > Settings.
2. Make sure “No proxy” or “Use system proxy settings” is selected.

These steps ensure your browser is not overriding Windows’ restored network defaults.

9. Contact Your Network Administrator or ISP

If you’re using a shared or enterprise network like an office or a school, proxy settings may be enforced at the network level.

In this case, contact your system administrator or Internet Service Provider (ISP) to confirm whether a proxy should be used and request guidance on correct configuration.

Additional Tips

• Try restarting your router and modem.
• Ensure your Windows operating system is fully updated.
• Clear your DNS cache by typing ipconfig /flushdns in Command Prompt.

Conclusion

Facing the “The proxy server isn’t responding” error can be frustrating, especially when your internet access is at stake. Fortunately, by following the structured solutions provided in this guide—from checking manual proxy settings to running malware scans and even editing the Windows Registry—you should be able to fix the issue effectively.

Always start with simpler solutions and progress to advanced fixes only if necessary. And remember, keeping your system updated and protected from malicious software is key to avoiding proxy-related problems in the future.

Should none of these methods work, consider seeking professional technical support to perform a deeper diagnosis of your networking hardware or software environment.