How to Disable a Proxy or Firewall

Proxies and firewalls control computers' network services.

Proxies and firewalls are two types of services used in Windows operating systems to control a computer's network security. A proxy is a server that connects clients to special resources by filtering IP addresses. On the other hand, a computer's firewall monitors all incoming network traffic and can be used to block certain connections. Any system administrator can disable a computer's proxy or firewall.

Things You'll Need

• PC running Windows XP or later

Instructions

Disabling a Proxy

1. Launch the Microsoft Internet Explorer program.

2. Open the "Tools" menu and select "Internet Options."

3. Click on the "Connections" tab at the top of the window.

4. Click on the "LAN Settings" button near the bottom of the window.

5. Uncheck the box next to "Use a proxy server for your LAN."

6. Press the "OK" button twice to save the settings and disable the proxy.

Disabling a Firewall

1. Open the Start menu and click on "Control Panel."

2. Double-click on the "Windows Firewall" icon.

3. Click on the "General" tab at the top of the window.

4. Select the "Off" radio button.

5. Click the "OK" button to save the settings and disable the firewall.

References

• Kent State Library: How to Remove Proxy Settings
• Windows Support: Using Windows Firewall