How to Set Up Proxy Settings on Your Android Device

Using proxies on your Android device is a practical way to secure your connection, hide your IP address, and filter out unwanted traffic such as malware. Whether you want to configure a proxy for your mobile data or Wi-Fi network, Android provides straightforward options to do so. This guide walks you through each method step-by-step.

Why Use a Proxy on Android?

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet. By routing your requests through a proxy, you can:

Access geo-restricted content more easily
Protect your real IP address from exposure
Add an extra layer of security by blocking harmful sites or traffic

For reliable and high-performance proxies tailored for Android devices, you might want to explore DataImpulse.

Setting Up a Proxy for Mobile Data

Configuring a proxy for your cellular network involves modifying your Access Point Name (APN) settings. Keep in mind: when using proxies on mobile data, they only support HTTP connections.

Steps to Configure Proxy on Mobile Network

Open Settings on your Android device.
Navigate to Network & internet or Connections (depending on your device).
Tap Mobile networks.
Select your mobile carrier's network from the list.
Scroll down and tap Access Point Names (APNs).
From the APN list, choose the one currently in use.
Fill in the following proxy details:
- Proxy: gw.dataimpulse.com
- Port: 823
- Username and Password: Your DataImpulse credentials
Tap the three vertical dots (menu) at the top right and select Save.
Restart your mobile connection by toggling airplane mode or turning mobile data off and on again.
Launch your web browser and enter your proxy username and password when prompted.

With these steps done, your mobile data traffic will be routed through the proxy server.

Configuring Proxy for Wi-Fi Networks

Setting up a proxy on Wi-Fi differs slightly from mobile data and supports both HTTP and HTTPS connections. Additionally, the proxy affects all network traffic from your device, including apps.

How to Set Proxy for Wi-Fi

Open Settings > Network & internet or Connections > Internet.
Tap the gear icon next to your connected Wi-Fi network to view details.
Hit the Edit button (usually at the upper right).
Expand Advanced options or Manage network settings.
Scroll to the Proxy section and choose Manual.
Enter your proxy server credentials:
- Proxy hostname: gw.dataimpulse.com
- Port: 823
- Username and Password: Use your DataImpulse login details

On newer versions of Android, you may need to tap View more to access all the fields.

Save the settings and reconnect to the Wi-Fi network.

Whitelist Your IP for Seamless Access

To avoid constant credential prompts, whitelist your current public IP from the DataImpulse dashboard:

Log in to DataImpulse and go to Manage Whitelist IPs.
Click Detect my IP to add your current IP.
Press Add new IP to save it.

Note that the system may take a moment to update. If you receive prompt requests immediately after whitelisting, simply dismiss them.

Customizing Proxy Exceptions

In the Wi-Fi proxy settings, you can specify domains or IP addresses to bypass the proxy by using the Bypass proxy for option. Separate multiple entries with commas. This allows unrestricted access to specified websites without routing through the proxy.

Important Notes

Proxy connections on mobile data only support HTTP traffic.
Wi-Fi proxy settings cover both HTTP and HTTPS traffic.
When configured properly, the proxy affects all network requests, including those from apps.
Keep your DataImpulse credentials handy for authentication.
Restarting your network connection applies any new proxy settings.

Wrapping Up

Configuring proxies on Android can improve privacy, security, and enable access to geo-restricted resources. Whether on mobile data or Wi-Fi, the process involves a few straightforward steps, and providers like DataImpulse offer tailored proxies for Android devices at reasonable prices.