System Proxy Setup for macOS

This guide walks you through how to set up a Squid Proxies connection on macOS using the system’s built-in network preferences.


System Proxy Configuration for macOS

đź’ˇ Before You Start:

  • Have the following ready:
    • Your Squid Proxies IP address
    • Port number (commonly 8800 or provided by us)
    • Username and password (if you're using user/pass authentication)
    • Or make sure your IP is whitelisted (if using IP authentication)

Step 1: Open Network Settings

  1. Click the Apple menu in the top left corner.
  2. Choose System Settings (macOS Ventura and later) or System Preferences (older versions).
  3. Click Network from the sidebar.

Step 2: Choose Your Active Network

  1. Select your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) from the list on the left.
  2. Click the Details or Advanced button depending on your macOS version.
  3. Go to the Proxies tab.


Step 3: Configure the Proxy

  1. In the Select a protocol to configure list, check Web Proxy (HTTP) and optionally Secure Web Proxy (HTTPS) if needed.

  2. For each protocol:

    • Enter your Squid Proxies IP address
    • Enter the port number (e.g., 8800)

  3. If you’re using username/password authentication, check Proxy server requires password, then input your Squid Proxies credentials.

  4. Click OK or Apply to save.

âś… Your macOS system is now configured to route traffic through Squid Proxies!


Step 4: Test Your Proxy

To confirm everything is working:

  1. Open Safari, Chrome, or another browser.
  2. Visit http://ip-check.net or https://whatismyipaddress.com.
  3. Your IP should match the one provided by Squid Proxies.

If it does, your Mac is now using the proxy system-wide.


Troubleshooting Tips

  • Can't Connect?
    • Double-check that your IP is whitelisted in the Squid Proxies dashboard, or verify your username/password is correct.
  • Authentication Keeps Popping Up?
    • Make sure “Proxy server requires password” is checked and both fields are filled out correctly.
  • Some apps not using proxy?
    • macOS routes most, but not all, apps through system proxies. Browser-based and API tasks should work fine, but some apps may need manual configuration.

Disable System Proxy on macOS

  1. Go back to System Settings > Network > Your Connection > Proxies.
  2. Uncheck Web Proxy (HTTP) and Secure Web Proxy (HTTPS).
  3. Click OK or Apply.

This disables the system proxy and returns your Mac to direct internet access.



More Guides: