How to set up and use a proxy in Brave Browser

Brave Browser is marketed by its developers as one of the most secure and private browsers available. It features a built-in firewall, ad blocker, and tracker blocker. The application even supports TOR networks and VPN natively.

In practice, however, using a TOR connection can significantly slow down internet traffic. This method is typically only justified in exceptional situations where accessing blocked resources might lead to legal implications. As for the VPN service, it is a paid feature with a monthly subscription costing $9.99. Given these aspects, in terms of versatility, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness, a browser proxy remains an unmatched alternative.

For information on how to use a proxy in Brave Browser and whether third-party plugins are necessary, refer to our step-by-step guide.

Video tutorial for proxy configuration in Brave Browser

Step-by-step proxy setup in Brave Browser

In Brave Browser, regardless of whether it's a version for Mac, Linux, or Windows, there isn't a built-in client for proxy configurations. Instead, the application relies on a proxy server set up at the system level. This design choice was made intentionally to avoid overloading the software and, more specifically, to conserve RAM usage, thereby maintaining the application's high speed.

Brave Browser supports SOCKS proxy, which is versatile enough for not only HTTP requests but also for file sharing, torrent networks, and video communications. This flexibility allows users to install a universal server that can be utilized across all applications.

Setting up a proxy in a browser for Windows:

1. Access the proxy settings either through the system's “Options” menu or directly from the browser.
2. Click on “Menu” in the upper right corner of Brave, navigate to the “Settings” section, scroll to the end, and select “System”. Look for the option “Open your computer’s proxy settings”.

   

3. This action will open the “Network and Internet” settings menu. Here, select the “Proxy” section. If set to automatic configuration, it will use parameters provided by your Internet provider or the local network administrator.
4. For a custom proxy setup, switch to manual configuration. Enable the “Use a proxy server” option, then enter the required details in the “Address” and “Port” fields. Remember to save your changes.

   

5. In case you have a private HTTP proxy for Brave Browser, you will need to enter your username and password once whenever you load a page in the browser.

Once complete, this setup process is similar across other operating systems. After selecting the proxy settings link in the browser, you will be redirected to the system settings where you need to input the IP address, port, and save your preferences.