How To Fix “Connection Refused By Proxy Server”

Encountering "Connection Refused By Proxy Server" errors after acquiring proxies can be frustrating. This guide provides practical steps to diagnose and resolve these issues, ensuring proper proxy functionality. It covers initial checks, configuration adjustments, and troubleshooting techniques.

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Initial Checks

First, verify your internet connection is active and stable. A faulty internet connection can mimic proxy-related errors.

Confirm that the proxy server is online and accessible. Many providers offer status pages or methods to check server availability.

Proxy Configuration Verification

Double-check the proxy settings in your browser or application. Ensure the proxy address, port, and authentication credentials (if required) are entered correctly.

Typos are a common cause. Even a single incorrect digit can lead to connection refusal.

Authentication Issues

If your proxy requires authentication, verify that your username and password are correct. Some proxies require IP whitelisting instead of username/password.

Ensure that you are sending the authentication credentials in the correct format. Some proxies may require specific authentication methods.

Troubleshooting Checklist

  • Test the proxy with a different browser or application to isolate the issue.
  • Try a different proxy server from your provider's list if available.
  • Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software to see if they are blocking the connection. Re-enable them after testing and configure exceptions if needed.
  • Clear your browser's cache and cookies, then restart the browser.
  • If using an IP-authenticated proxy, ensure your current IP address is whitelisted.

Examples

  • Browser Proxy Settings: Settings > Network Settings > Proxy
  • Proxy URL example: http://username:password@proxy.example.com:8080
  • Successful curl test: curl -x http://proxy.example.com:8080 http://www.example.com

Tips

  • Always purchase proxies from reputable providers.
  • Monitor your proxy usage to avoid exceeding bandwidth limits.
  • Regularly check your proxy settings for accuracy.
  • Implement error handling and retry mechanisms in your applications.

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FAQ

Q: Why am I getting "Connection Refused" even with correct settings?

A: The proxy server might be overloaded or temporarily unavailable. Try again later or contact your provider.

Q: How do I know if my IP is whitelisted correctly?

A: Your proxy provider should offer a tool or method to check your currently visible IP and confirm it's in their whitelist.

Q: What if the proxy works for some sites but not others?

A: Some websites actively block proxies. Try a different proxy or contact your provider for alternatives. The specific website might also have intermittent issues.

This document may contain affiliate links. Information in this document may be outdated. This document is not official and is not affiliated with any proxy provider.