You Are Using A Proxy
How to Tell Whether Your Windows PC is Using a Proxy Server
While researching for our article about what happens when you install crapware from a really lousy download site, we noticed that some of the crapware and spyware will actually try to install a proxy server to spy on you. So how do you know if your PC is using a proxy?
It’s really quite easy, although there are a couple different places to check depending on what you are using. If you are using a Windows 8. x tablet, you can use this article to check your proxy settings.
Almost all applications use the system proxy, which is actually in the Internet Options panel. This proxy works for applications like Google Chrome and Internet Explorer, as well as many or most other applications that require Internet access. Certain apps, like Firefox, can set their own proxy settings differently.
Check the System Proxy for Windows
Assuming you are using almost any version of Windows, you can just open up Internet Explorer and then open the Internet Options. Flip over to the Connections tab, and then click the LAN settings button at the bottom.
This dialog should instantly tell you whether you are using a proxy or not. If the box is checked, you are using a proxy.
If you click the Advanced button, you can actually see what proxy you are using. In this case, it’s a process running on the localhost system on port 49477. Clearly very suspect.
And of course, if you want to figure out what is listening on a port, you can just use the netstat -ab command from a command prompt. That way you can identify the process that’s running a proxy.
Note: Unless you are a programmer or you are using a SOCKS proxy to bypass restrictions, you should never see either localhost or 127. 0. 1 in the Proxy settings dialog. If you see something like that, it’s time for some malware scanning.
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Proxy Server – What They Are & How to Use – What Is My IP …
Learn what a proxy is and the risks involved.
You may not know it (and once you do not know it, it may not bother you), but every time you reach out to a website or connect with anyone online, your online connection gives your computer “address” to the site/person you’re connecting with.
Why? So that you the other end knows how to send information (a Web page, email, etc. ) back to your computer…to you. That address is your public IP address. IP stands for Internet Protocol. Want to see yours right now? Just go here to our home page and it will be there.
Without an IP address, you wouldn’t be able to do any Internet/online activity and others online wouldn’t be able to reach you. It is how you connect to the world.
Where does your IP address come from?
You can thank your Internet Service Provider (AT&T, Comcast, Verizon, etc. ) for your IP address at home, as well as for your Internet connection. Your smart device also uses an IP address when you’re browsing the web or using an app.
Most people are completely happy with how all of that works.
But there are few realities about public IP addresses that does bother some people:
Your IP address identifies where you are in the world, sometimes to the street level.
It can be used by websites to block you from accessing their content.
It ultimately ties your name and home address to your IP address, because someone is paying for an Internet connection at a specific location.
But there are a few ways you can get around those realities, and one them is to use a proxy service or proxy server (people simply say “proxy. ”)
Proxy means “substitute. ”
A proxy lets you go online under a different IP address identity.
You don’t change your Internet provider; you simple go online and search for “free proxies” or “list of proxies” and you will get several websites that provide lists of free proxies.
It’s really that simple to find proxies, just like you order shoes, movies and airline tickets online. However, it isn’t so simple to figure out how to use one without some guidance. For more help and information on proxies, visit our Learning Center.
How a proxy operates.
A proxy server is a computer on the web that redirects your web browsing activity. Here’s what that means.
Normally, when you type in a website name ( or any other), your Internet Service Provider (ISP) makes the request for you and connects you with the destination—and reveals your real IP address, as mentioned before.
When you use a proxy your online requests get rerouted.
While using a proxy, your Internet request goes from your computer to your ISP as usual, but then gets sent to the proxy server, and then to the website/destination. Along the way, the proxy uses the IP address you chose in your setup, masking your real IP address.
Why you might want to use a proxy.
Here why some people turn to using a proxy—and why you might be interested as well.
A school or local library blocks access to certain websites and a student wants to get around that.
You want to look at something online that interests you…but you would prefer it couldn’t be traced back to your IP address and your location.
You’re traveling abroad and the technology set up in the country you’re in prevents you from connecting to a website back home.
You want to post comments on websites but you do not want your IP address to be identified or your identity tracked down.
Your employer blocks access to social media or other sites and you’d like to bypass those restrictions.
Why you might not want to use one
You should keep in mind that your employer, your ISP and other networks might object to your using a proxy. Just because you can do it, doesn’t mean you should. And in some cases, websites will blacklist IP addresses they suspect or know are from a proxy.
Not all proxies are alike.
Even though all proxies help you access websites you might not otherwise get to, not all proxies behave the same way. A proxy can fall into one of four categories:
Transparent proxy. It tells websites that it is a proxy server and it will pass along your IP address anyway.
Anonymous proxy. It will identify itself as a proxy, but it won’t pass your IP address to the website.
Distorting proxy. It passes along an incorrect IP address for you, while identifying itself as a proxy.
High Anonymity proxy. The proxy and your IP address stay a secret. The website just sees a random IP address connecting to it…that isn’t yours.
As mentioned before, you can find proxy servers easily for free; but as with any free service, you should be aware of the risks involved, because a free proxy may not be as safe or secure as you hope it would be. That being said, here’s an article you should read: Anonymous Proxy Risks
As with anything else you do online, be sure to do some homework first.
Get hidden now. »» I want to hide my IP
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How to fix Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” error
We’ll explain how to fix the Netflix “unblocker or proxy” error so you can stream your favorite Netflix shows from anywhere using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
UPDATED: September 12, 2021
Netflix changes its content from one country to another, meaning some shows are only available in some countries. International travelers have previously been able to continue watching shows from back home with the help of a VPN or proxy service, but these days, there’s a good chance they’ll see the following error when connected:
“You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again. ”
The best way to fix this Netflix “unblocker or proxy” error is by using a quality VPN. If you’re already using a VPN, seeing the error means that it’s unable to securely access Netflix or, at the very least, the IP address you’re using has been blacklisted by Netflix. Below, we’ve listed the best VPNs for regaining access to your usual Netflix library during your travels abroad.
How to fix Netflix “unblocker or proxy” error
This common Netflix streaming error is due to Netflix detecting the use of a VPN or proxy service. The good news is that there’s a quick and easy to fix. Our step-by-step guide explains what you need to do if you are getting the message “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy”.
Here’s how to fix the Netflix proxy error:
Sign up with a VPN that works with Netflix – we recommend NordVPN.
Download and install the appropriate VPN app or browser extension for your device.
Open the VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server in your home country.
Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. This ensures Netflix forgets your actual IP address and location. It will then accept the new IP address provided by the VPN.
Go to Netflix and select your preferred content which should now be accessible as normal! If not, try another server. Alternatively, contact your VPN’s customer support for further assistance.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE? NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use the VPN rated #1 for Netflix with no restrictions for a month—great if you want to keep watching content from back home as you travel.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Don’t have time to read the full article? Here’s a short summary of the best VPNs to fix the Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” error:
Best VPNs for fixing Netflix proxy error
NordVPN: Our top choice for fixing the Netflix proxy error. 5, 000+ fast servers. Excellent security and privacy credentials. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark: Budget-friendly provider with no connection limits. Works great with Netflix and similar services. Good speeds and great security.
ExpressVPN: A well-establish VPN known for its high speeds, powerful security features, and exceptional versatility.
CyberGhost: High-speed servers for streaming Netflix. Secure VPN with encryption and a strict no-logs policy. Connect up to seven devices. Includes 24/7 live support.
PrivateVPN: Fix the Netflix proxy error. Also works with BBC iPlayer and Hulu. Very fast servers for buffer and lag-free streaming. User-friendly apps and a no-logs policy.
HideMyAss: IP addresses in most countries. Securely access Netflix abroad. Desktop and mobile apps and 24/7 support. Security features include encryption.
Which VPNs still work with Netflix?
In an effort to save you some time, we’ve come up with a list of the best VPNs for Netflix. VPNs were selected based on their meeting the following criteria:
Servers that work reliably with Netflix
Fast and consistent connections for streaming
Secures your data with encryption and no-logs policy
Offers live chat and email support, preferably 24/7
Beginner-friendly apps for desktop and mobile
Money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free
Best VPNs to fix Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” error
Here’s our list of the best VPNs to fix the Netflix unblocker or proxy error:
1. NordVPN
Oct 2021
works with netflixTested Oct 2021
Apps Available:
PC
Mac
IOS
Android
Linux
NordVPN is our top choice and is well placed to fix the Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” error. It has a vast network of more than 5, 200 exceptionally fast servers, located in 60+ countries. Additionally, this service works with some of the most popular sites including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. NordVPN even offers servers which are optimized for P2P sharing or increased privacy (via Double VPN or Onion over VPN).
With NordVPN, you can protect all of your most commonly used devices as up to six simultaneous connections are permitted. Further, there’s a wide range of apps and browser extensions which make getting connected quick and easy. This VPN is based in Panama and operates a strict no-logs policy. You’re also protected through NordVPN’s use of 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and kill switch. If you have any questions about these features, you can contact support over live chat 24/7.
NordVPN apps are offered for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Android TV. Browser extensions are available for Chrome and Firefox. Routers require manual configuration.
Pros:
Huge network of over 5, 200 makes it ideal for safe streaming
Works with Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more
Fastest VPN on the market
Provides 24/7 customer support via live chat and email
Includes a strict no-logs policy to protect your online privacy
Cons:
Desktop app can take slightly longer to connect
BEST VPN TO FIX NETFLIX PROXY ERROR:NordVPN is our top choice for Netflix. Has over 5, 200 very fast servers. Works great with many popular services. Offers 24/7 support, intuitive apps, and a strict no-logs policy. Try it risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
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2. Surfshark
Surfshark is our top budget pick. It works well with Netflix and has quickly grown to become a strong choice for anyone who streams regularly. Surfshark has around 3, 200 servers across 65 countries. What’s more, this VPN works with BBC iPlayer and Hulu and is torrenting-friendly. It’s perfect for families because it lets you connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.
Another area in which Surfshark excels is its ease of use. The apps and browser extensions are very well designed and shouldn’t cause any confusion, even for VPN novices. Features include an ad-blocker and a whitelister for choosing which apps can bypass the VPN. Surfshark is highly secure and had its browser extensions independently audited to back this up. Your personal data is protected with 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch. There’s also a strict no-logs policy and DNS and IPv6 leak protection.
Signing up to Surfshark allows you access to its apps for Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. You can also download Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. Routers require manual setup.
Makes it easy to stream Netflix
Connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously
Very user-friendly
Secure service with encryption, kill switch, and a no-logs policy
Settings menu is a little unorganized
BEST FOR THE MONEY:Surfshark lets you connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously – perfect for families! Works with Netflix, Hulu, and more. No-logs VPN with 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Surfshark review.
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3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN has servers in 94 countries, allowing you to securely access your home Netflix library as you travel. This VPN’s server network consists of more than 3, 000 servers in countries including the US, UK, Australia, and Japan. Aside from being able to resolve the Netflix proxy error, ExpressVPN also works with Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer. Further, it lets you connect up to five devices simultaneously via a single account.
ExpressVPN is also known to be very beginner-friendly. There’s 24/7 live chat and email support, plus the apps and browser extensions make it simple to connect to a server. Security is another of ExpressVPN’s strengths. It secures your data using 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS and IPv6 leak protection. This VPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands and doesn’t keep any identifying logs of its users.
You can use ExpressVPN via the apps for desktop (Windows, Mac, Linux), mobile (Android and iOS), and routers. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available.
Servers in 94 countries
Fast, consistent servers for lag and buffer-free streaming
Uses encryption and a kill switch to keep your data secure
Includes 24/7 via live chat and email
Slightly more expensive than most VPNs
STREAM SECURELY:ExpressVPN is fast and security-conscious, making it ideal for watching Netflix abroad. Provides 24/7 support, user-friendly apps, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
ExpressVPN CouponSPECIAL OFFER: 49% off plus 3 months Free! Get Deal >Coupon applied automatically
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost offers thousands of high-speed servers spread across 91 countries including the US. This means it’s easy to stream Netflix from abroad without any noticeable buffering or lag. Aside from fixing the Netflix proxy error, it works well with services like the BBC iPlayer. Another advantage of this Romania-based VPN is that it lets you connect up to seven devices simultaneously (more than most VPNs allow).
A CyberGhost account includes access to 24/7 support via live chat and email. Better still, this VPN comes with a lengthy 45-day money-back guarantee (most VPNs offer 30 days at most). Connect to a CyberGhost server and you’ll be protected from DNS and IPv6 leaks. It also safeguards your privacy with a strict no-logs policy, 256-bit encryption, automatic ad-blocking and malware-scanning, as well as a kill switch.
Fix the Netflix proxy error via CyberGhost’s apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire Stick, and Android TV. You can also use Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. Manual installation is required for use with Linux and routers.
Works well with Netflix
Allows up to seven simultaneous connections
Provides live chat and email support, 24/7
Strong security with encryption and a strict no-logs policy
Lack of configuration options will frustrate power users
45-DAY MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE:CyberGhost has very fast speeds for streaming Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more. Use on up to seven devices simultaneously. Thousands of servers in 90 countries and 24/7 live chat support. Strict no-logs policy. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
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5. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a Swedish VPN service that places an emphasis on quality over quantity. While it has a relatively small network of servers, those they have are fast and reliable, making them ideal for streaming and torrenting. You can use this VPN to fix the Netflix unblocker or proxy error and watch the likes of Netflix US and Netflix Japan. Further, it works with Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max. Overall, PrivateVPN has servers in 60+ countries around the world.
You can use PrivateVPN to secure up to six of your desktop and mobile devices simultaneously. This VPN offers excellent customer service and its live chat feature allows you to speak to the developers directly. When you use PrivateVPN, your data is secured with 256-bit AES encryption. There’s also DNS and IPv6 leak protection, a kill switch and a no-logs policy. What’s more, you can even pay semi-anonymously with Bitcoin.
PrivateVPN offers apps for desktop (Windows and Mac) as well as mobile (Android and iOS). However, you’ll need to follow manual setup instructions for using PrivateVPN with Linux and routers.
Very fast servers for streaming Netflix
Watch Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more
Beginner-friendly apps for desktop and mobile platforms
Protects your privacy with encryption and no-logs policy
Only offers around 200 servers
Limited selection of apps and no browser extensions
HIGH SPEED SERVERS:PrivateVPN is a very fast VPN for streaming and torrenting. Use it to watch Netflix abroad. Lets you connect up to six devices. Live chat support, beginner-friendly apps, and strong security with encryption. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
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6. HideMyAss
HideMyAss has a network of approximately 1, 100 servers. What’s particularly impressive is that it offers IP addresses for almost every country in the world. For this reason, you’ll be able to use HideMyAss to securely access several Netflix libraries, including Netflix USA and Netflix UK. You can also use it to watch BBC iPlayer or Hulu, among other popular streaming services. HideMyAss offers 24/7 live chat support, helping you quickly resolve any issues you might encounter.
This VPN allows P2P file-sharing and lets you connect up to five devices simultaneously via a single account. The HideMyAss apps are user-friendly and even let you automatically connect to the best available server. HideMyAss offers plenty of security features to protect your online privacy and anonymity. This includes 256-bit AES encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch. You can even choose to shuffle your IP address, making it harder to track your location.
HideMyAss apps are available to download for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. This VPN can also be configured manually with Linux and select routers.
Works with several Netflix libraries
Steady speeds
24/7 live chat and email support
Uses high level of encryption to keep your data safe
Logs IP addresses of users
Quite expensive compared to most VPNs on this list
BROWSE FROM ANYWHERE:HideMyAss has IP addresses for most countries. Use it to securely stream Netflixas you travel. Offers 24/7 live chat support and is torrenting-friendly. Secures your data with encryption but keep logs of IP addresses. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full HideMyAss review.
Hide My Ass CouponGet 75% off the 36 month planGet Deal >Coupon applied automatically
Why does Netflix ban VPN IP addresses?
In 2016, Netflix implemented a VPN detection system to know when you access the service when using a VPN. This was mainly due to licensing rights; contracts may dictate that a particular TV series or movie can be shown in one country (for example the US) but not in another. As many people were accessing Netflix via VPNs, the company was under pressure from major studios to prevent their use.
When Netflix detects an IP address belongs to a VPN, the IP address is blacklisted. This leads to the appearance of the Netflix “you seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” streaming error or sometimes Netflix error m7111-5059.
Can I use a free VPN to fix the Netflix proxy error?
No, the vast majority of free VPNs wont work with Netflix. That’s because Netflix has implemented anti-VPN measures in recent years. The problem for free providers is that they have a limited number of IP addresses and far too many users on each server. These IP addresses are quickly flagged by Netflix, essentially rendering the server useless for using the platform. Furthermore, the servers of free VPNs are often very slow, which isn’t ideal for streaming anyway.
Aside from Netflix, free VPNs struggle with many other websites and services including Amazon Prime Video and DAZN. Free VPNs also lack vital security features. In particular, they may not secure your data with encryption or use a kill switch to prevent data leaks. As with most free services, free VPNs often use an ad-supported model to make money, although some providers have been known to log your browsing activity and sell it to third parties.
What can I watch on Netflix?
Netflix has a vast amount of content, much of which is its own original programming. However, here’s a list of some of the most popular original content you can watch on Netflix:
Orange Is the New Black
Stranger Things
The Umbrella Academy
Our Planet
Bird Box
Triple Frontier
Money Heist
I Am Mother
The Great Hack
Last Chance U
Frequently Asked Questions about you are using a proxy
What does it mean to use proxy?
A proxy server is a computer on the web that redirects your web browsing activity. … When you use a proxy your online requests get rerouted. While using a proxy, your Internet request goes from your computer to your ISP as usual, but then gets sent to the proxy server, and then to the website/destination.
How do I fix Netflix proxy or Unblocker?
How to fix Netflix “unblocker or proxy” errorSign up with a VPN that works with Netflix – we recommend NordVPN.Download and install the appropriate VPN app or browser extension for your device.Open the VPN app or browser extension and connect to a server in your home country.Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.More items…•Sep 12, 2021
What is meant by proxy user?
The external user is a “proxy user” (a user who can impersonate or become known as another user). The second user is a “proxied user” (a user whose identity and privileges can be assumed by a proxy user).
