A network proxy is a gateway that acts as an intermediary between the local network (such as all devices in a building or company) and the internet. It adds an additional layer of privacy, security and performance enhancement on devices when connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.

To configure a proxy for Windows 10 you can either make use of the settings app or manually edit your configuration. If you’re using the Settings app, you can select Proxy under Network & Internet. If the Use a proxy server switch is turned my site disabled, then skip this step. Otherwise, enable the switch and fill in your proxy server’s address and port information.

You may be requested by an IT administrator to use the Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Protocol script (WPAD) when you are using a proxy at work or in a school environment. This method is more reliable than a manual configuration.

You should also consider disabling any third-party software that might be interfering with your network connection or modifying your settings. This includes antivirus, VPN, and firewall software. This is particularly helpful if the error message you are receiving says that « Windows couldn’t automatically recognize this network’s proxy settings. »

If all else fails, you could try a reset on the system. This will remove any programs and drivers that were installed prior to the restore point has been set up, allowing you to install the default settings of your system. This should resolve the issue that prevented you from connecting to the internet once more without receiving the error message.