The Ultimate Guide to Android Proxy Settings (Wi‑Fi & Global)

This guide explains Android proxy configuration for per‑network Wi‑Fi proxies, global proxy via Developer options, and PAC auto‑config. We also cover app‑specific behavior and troubleshooting.

System-Wide vs. App-Specific Proxies

Android proxies are typically set per Wi‑Fi network and affect traffic routed through that network for many apps and browsers. Some apps (e.g., Firefox, certain VPN/proxy clients) use their own proxy settings and may not follow system configuration. Global proxy via Developer options can influence broader traffic but is device/vendor dependent.

Method 1: Per‑Network Wi‑Fi Proxy (Most Common)

  1. Open Settings → Network & internet → Internet (path varies by device).
  2. Tap your connected Wi‑Fi network, then tap Edit (or the gear icon).
  3. Expand Advanced options, set Proxy to Manual.
  4. Enter:
    • Hostname: your proxy host or IP
    • Port: your proxy port
    • (Optional) Bypass: domains to skip (comma‑separated)
  5. Save and reconnect if prompted, then verify via What's My IP.

Note: This applies to the specific Wi‑Fi SSID. Switching networks requires configuring each network.

Method 2: Global Proxy (Developer Options)

  1. Enable Developer options (tap Build number 7 times in Settings → About phone).
  2. Go to Settings → System → Developer options.
  3. Find Global HTTP proxy (availability varies by OEM/Android version).
  4. Enter proxy Host and Port, save.
  5. Verify routing via What's My IP.

If Global HTTP proxy is missing, your device/vendor may not support it. Use per‑Wi‑Fi proxy or an app‑level proxy client.

Method 3: Automatic Proxy (PAC File)

Some Android builds allow Proxy Auto‑Config (PAC) via Wi‑Fi advanced settings (Proxy → Auto‑config or script address). If available, enter your PAC URL and save, then verify via What's My IP.

Notes on App‑Level Proxy Clients

Popular Android clients (e.g., V2RayNG, Clash) implement their own proxy stack and routing rules. They may not rely on system Wi‑Fi proxy settings. Configure these apps directly using your node/subscription, and enable their service to route traffic.

❗ Troubleshooting Common Android Proxy Issues

Issue 1: "Proxy works on Wi‑Fi but not on mobile data."

Wi‑Fi proxies apply per network. Mobile data does not use Wi‑Fi proxy; use an app‑level client or global proxy (if supported).

Issue 2: "Some apps ignore my proxy."

Apps may bypass system proxy or pin connections. Configure app‑specific proxy settings or use a client (V2RayNG/Clash) with routing rules.

Issue 3: "How do I disable the proxy?"

  1. For Wi‑Fi: Edit the network, set Proxy to None.
  2. For Global: Clear Global HTTP proxy in Developer options.
  3. For Apps: Turn off the client service or remove nodes.
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