A network proxy is a gateway that acts as an intermediary between the local network (such as all devices in the building or in a company) and the internet. It adds an additional layer of security, privacy and improves performance on a device when connected to Wi-Fi or an Ethernet connection.
To configure a proxy in Windows 10 you can either make use of the settings app or manually modify 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 disabled, then you can skip this step. Otherwise, enable the switch and then fill in your proxy server’s address and port details.
You might be asked by an IT administrator to use the Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Protocol script (WPAD) in the event that you are using a proxy his explanation at work or in a school environment. This method is more reliable than a manual configuration.
You should also disable any third-party programs that may be interfering or changing your network settings. This includes antivirus, firewall and VPN programs. This is particularly useful in the event that you encounter an error message saying “Windows could not detect this network’s Proxy settings automatically.”
If you are unable to resolve the issue, you can attempt a reset of the system. This will delete any drivers or programs that have been installed since the restore point was created, allowing you reinstall your system’s default settings. Hopefully, this will clear the problem and allow you to reconnect to the internet without the error message appearing.