How to set up a proxy in Tor Browser?

Setting up a proxy in Tor Browser

Tor (The Onion Router) is specialized open-source software designed to ensure a high level of privacy on the network. Its operating principle is based on "onion routing": data packets pass through several sequential nodes (relays) before reaching the target resource.

Each relay in the chain only has information about the previous and next node, making it practically impossible to trace the full path of the traffic. However, using an additional proxy server together with Tor allows you to gain even more control over the connection, optimize speed, and bypass specific network restrictions.

Why use a proxy with Tor?

Although Tor itself is a powerful encryption tool, adding an intermediate proxy server before the entry node of the Tor network provides several strategic advantages:

1. Maximum Anonymity (Hiding IP from the Entry Node)

In the standard configuration, your Internet Service Provider and the first node in the chain (Entry Node) can see your real IP address. Using a proxy allows you to mask your address even before the traffic enters the Tor network. Thus, even the entry node will not know your true location.

1. Bypassing Strict Network Blocks

Some corporate networks, educational institutions, or state ISPs block access to known IP addresses of Tor nodes. A proxy server acts as a "bridge," helping to hide the fact that you are using Tor from network filters, ensuring unimpeded access to resources.

1. Managing Regional Settings

Although Tor changes your virtual location, this process is largely random. Setting up a specific proxy allows you to lock in a certain geographic location at the exit or entry, which is critical for accessing services with strict geolocation requirements.

1. Optimizing Speed and Stability

High-quality datacenter or residential proxies can provide a more stable communication channel. Proxy servers can cache data and offer alternative routes, which in some cases reduces the latency characteristic of the multi-layered Tor network.

Step-by-step proxy setup in Tor Browser

To integrate a proxy server into the Tor system, follow these steps:

Step 1: Access Connection Settings

Launch Tor Browser. At startup, in the main window, click the "Configure Connection" button. If the browser is already running, go to "Settings" via the main menu.

Step 2: Go to Advanced Settings

In the "Connection" section, scroll down to the "Advanced" block. Find the item "Configure how Tor Browser connects to the internet" and click the "Settings…" button.

Step 3: Enter Proxy Server Data

In the configuration window that opens, fill in the following parameters:

1. Activate the checkbox "I use a proxy to connect to the internet".

2. Select the Proxy Type (e.g., SOCKS5, HTTP, or HTTPS).

3. Enter the IP address (or host address) and Port of your server.

4. If your proxy requires authentication, enter the Username and Password.

5. Click "OK" to save the changes.

Step 4: Establish Connection

Return to the main settings page or the start window and click "Connect". If the data is entered correctly, the browser will establish the chain through your proxy.

How to resolve the "Failed to find proxy server" error?

If an error occurs when trying to connect, use the following diagnostic algorithm:

• Check data correctness: Ensure there are no typos in the address, port, or credentials. The proxy type in the browser settings must strictly match the protocol provided by the supplier.

• Analyze server status: Check the proxy's functionality through third-party services or in a regular browser. Public (free) proxies are often overloaded or inactive.

• Firewall configuration: Antivirus software or the Windows Firewall may block outgoing proxy client connections. Try temporarily disabling the security software or add Tor Browser to the exception list.

• DNS configuration for SOCKS5: When using the SOCKS5 protocol, ensure that the option "Proxy DNS when using SOCKS v5" is active in the settings. This will prevent DNS leaks outside the secure tunnel.