A network proxy connects the local (such as devices in buildings or offices) and an internet connection. It provides an extra layer of privacy, security and performance enhancement on a device connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.
You can set up proxy settings on Windows 10 either manually or using the Settings app. If you’re using the settings app, open Network & Internet and select Proxy. You can skip this step in the event that the Use a Proxy Server option is already off. Otherwise, enable the switch and enter your proxy server’s address and port information.
If you are using an internet proxy in a work or school setting it is possible that you will be prompted by the IT administrator to make use of the Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Protocol (WPAD) script to configure the proxy automatically. This method is more reliable than a manual configuration.
It is also recommended to disable any third-party software which could be interfering with your network connections or changing your settings. This includes antivirus, VPN, and firewall software. This is particularly helpful when you encounter an error message that says “Windows could not detect the Proxy settings of this network automatically.”
If nothing else works, you can attempt a reset of the system. This will remove any drivers or programs that have been installed since the restore point was established, allowing you to restore your system’s default settings. Hopefully, this will resolve the issue and allow you to connect to the internet without an error message appearing.