Top 5 proxy applications for Android

Proxy apps for Android are compact programs designed to reroute your device's network traffic to the Internet via a proxy server. This modification in proxy settings offers several advantages for Android users:

• Anonymity and unblock restricted content. These apps conceal your device's actual IP address, enhancing anonymity online. They also enable you to circumvent geographical restrictions, granting access to region-specific content.
• Content management. Proxy apps are effective tools for filtering or blocking specific media types or websites. This feature is particularly useful for parental control or managing corporate devices.
• Data usage efficiency. These applications can compress images and other content, reducing internet data consumption and accelerating the download of large files.
• Enhanced security. Proxy servers can filter out harmful websites and content, adding an extra security layer against online threats. They also help prevent the covert download of harmful small applications.

The utilities function in the following manner:

1. Installation and Configuration: First, install one of the recommended programs from the article onto your Android device. Within the app, you'll input the proxy server's details, like its IP address, port, and possibly authentication credentials. Detailed instructions for setting up each app (apk) are provided in the text.
2. Internet Traffic Redirection: When you access internet-reliant applications such as games, work-related software, online banking, etc., the utility reroutes your requests through the chosen proxy server. The proxy then processes these requests and sends the responses back to your device.
3. Content and Traffic Management: Based on your settings and the type of content, the proxy server can undertake various actions with your requests. These actions may include blocking specific websites, compressing content for efficiency, or encrypting traffic for enhanced security.

Before you start using a proxy on Android, it's important to understand the following features:

• Proxy servers use different protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, and SOCKS, each offering varying levels of functionality and security. HTTP and SOCKS proxies are the most commonly used on Android.
• The applications support encrypting data between your device and the proxy server. This enhances online security and reduces the risk of your personal data being intercepted by third parties.
• Proxy servers can store copies of frequently accessed resources. This caching reduces loading times and data usage for repeat requests, a significant benefit for metered connections as it saves gigabytes.
• Some services offer a choice of servers with different characteristics, like geographic location. This allows you to bypass regional blocks, access foreign content, and interact directly with overseas resources.
• Proxy applications typically provide an interface for configuring Internet connection settings and managing its behavior. Be aware that some free programs may impose limitations on speed, bandwidth, or access to specific features.

When using proxy applications, it's crucial to understand their impact on connection speed, security, and data privacy. Select and configure these programs based on your specific needs. The criteria for selecting the programs mentioned in the article are as follows:

• The article lists both free and shareware utilities. For standard functionality, which suffices for working with most protocols and proxy providers, there's no need to purchase PRO versions.
• Although many of these applications do not include a Russian language menu, they are designed for intuitive use. The article provides instructions and screenshots to help you navigate through the setup process.
• The list includes multifunctional programs that enable you to hide your IP address, bypass regional restrictions, and secure your mobile traffic.

The article concludes with a selection of the top 5 proxy apps that are compatible with any Android smartphone.

Drony – for easy and fast networking

The program in question has received mixed reviews from users. Its primary strengths include the ability to operate without requiring Root access to the operating system and a straightforward user interface. However, a notable downside, as identified by users, is the inadequate support provided for the application by its developer, Sandrop. Furthermore, the last update for the version available on Google Play dates back to early 2020. This raises concerns about its effectiveness in safeguarding client data against malware, particularly in the context of setting up an Android proxy through Drony.

Step-by-step proxy setup in Drony

The first step is to go to the official Google Play store or download the application from another site. If the download is from a third-party portal, the phone may ask for permission to install mobile developments from unknown sources.

1. Once the app is downloaded and launched, you'll see two tabs at the top: "Log" and "Settings".
   
2. In the "Settings" menu, choose "Not Wi-Fi".
   
3. In the opened window, under "Manual proxy", input the server's IP address. Save your changes using the "OK" button. Repeat these steps for the port tab, entering the port number provided by your proxy provider. You'll also need to enter authorization details from the proxy provider.
   
4. Next, select the connection protocol in the “Proxy Type” subsection. For web browsing, HTTPS is recommended, while SOCKS5 is better for app usage.
   
5. With the setup complete, return to the “Log” tab and click the “OFF” button at the bottom of the screen.
   

Remember, if your Android device is turned off or rebooted, you'll need to restart the app before going online. A proxy configured over Wi-Fi will continue to run in the background.

SocksDroid – a universal solution for clients

SocksDroid is an application tailored for Android devices (versions 4.1 to 10), featuring the use of SOCKS5 protocols. This allows it to route not just mobile browser traffic but also traffic from any app requiring online access upon launch. The app is user-friendly with a wide range of settings and easy to navigate interface.

Although free, user reviews suggest it's more suited for tablets than smartphones. One limitation for Android smartphone users is the lack of support for browser fingerprint spoofing, leading to potential access issues on certain websites and social networks. Some sites might block access if they detect suspicious activity from an IP address.

Despite these nuances, SocksDroid excels in internet surfing on Android. It offers fast performance, effective data encryption, and ensures complete anonymity online by incorporating an Android VPN service for traffic routing. The app benefits from ongoing technical support, requires minimal memory space, operates reliably without crashes, and is free from intrusive advertisements.

How to set up and use SocksDroid

The application is available for download from the Google Play store. Once downloaded, launch the utility to begin setup. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. To set up your phone with a proxy, input the technical connection parameters, primarily the IP address and port number, in the designated fields. These details, "Server IP" and "Server Port," should be provided by your chosen proxy provider.
   
2. The next configuration options include toggling Internet Protocol IPv6 and UDP Forwarding. IPv6 can enhance Internet speed but may not be supported by all routers and smartphones. If you encounter issues after enabling IPv6, disable it and restart your smartphone. UDP Forwarding, which can improve multiplayer games, should be adjusted based on your requirements and network capabilities.
   
3. In the "Username & Password Authentication" section, check the box to enable the login fields. Enter the “Username” and “Password” given by your proxy provider.
   
4. While the application offers advanced settings, these are not necessary for basic proxy use and can be avoided unless you have technical expertise. To activate the proxy in SocksDroid, simply turn on the slider next to its name.
   

Super Proxy – feature-rich and free VPN

The Super Proxy app, designed for tablets and flagship Android devices, stands out as one of the best due to its user-friendly design, the capability to operate without Root access, and consistent technical support. Regular updates from the developers ensure its safety and effectiveness.

Super Proxy utilizes HTTP and SOCKS5 protocols, offering comprehensive protection for all mobile user traffic. This includes internet browsing, social media, gaming, and other installed applications.

Setting up a proxy in the Super Proxy application

"Super Proxy" is a free application available on Google Play, with a Pro version also available for advanced users. The app defaults to English, but you can change the language in the settings.

1. To switch languages, navigate to “Settings”, the language option is located at the top.
   
2. Return to the main screen and tap the plus sign in the lower right corner.
   
3. On the settings page, configure your Internet connection via proxy. You can keep the default “Profile Name” or personalize it. Choose the protocol type based on your online activities: SOCKS5 for multiplayer gaming, HTTP for general use.
   
4. Enter the server IP and port details. The “Username” and “Password” fields are necessary if the private proxy is used. Remember to save your settings by clicking the floppy disk icon in the upper right.
   
5. After setup, click the floppy disk icon, then press the “Start” button in the following window to activate the app with your network parameters.
   
6. The app will display network traffic if set up correctly. If there are errors in configuration, the log will show relevant information. No logs indicate a failure to connect.
   

Every Proxy - a free application with quick setup

The Every Proxy app for Android is user-friendly, perfect for those new to network technologies. It's simple to set up, doesn't require root access, and provides functions for IP address masking and traffic routing. Supporting HTTP/HTTPS, SOCKS4, and SOCKS5 protocols, Every Proxy stands out for its ease of configuration, often requiring just a few clicks. This makes it ideal for accessing sites and apps blocked in your region.

The app is free, regularly updated, and compatible with all Android versions from 7.0 onwards. It's lightweight, requiring only 2.9 MB of device memory. Although Gorilla Software LLP doesn't offer a Russian version, the English interface is user-friendly for Russian speakers.

A noted limitation is the app's tendency to crash at high data speeds. Despite this, Every Proxy is efficient for internet browsing, playing a variety of games, including MMORPGs, and ensures secure usage of banking and business applications online.

Setting up a proxy in Every Proxy

To begin using Every Proxy, download it from the official Google Play store. Avoid downloading APKs from third-party sites due to potential virus and malware risks.

1. Upon installation, open the app. The main screen immediately displays a list of available internet connection protocols. Choose HTTP for web browsing and SOCKS for app functionality.
   
2. For advanced settings, access the debug menu by clicking the three dots in the upper right corner, next to the program name. Select “Settings” to open a new window. Here, the “All IP Addresses” tab shows the IPs of all devices on your wireless network.
   
3. The advanced protocol settings offer the same adjustments for both HTTP and SOCKS5. Using HTTP as an example, the first submenu items are the IP address and port.
   
4. Other setting submenu options include “Power Save”, which disconnects the proxy if the IP address is unavailable, conserving battery life and prompting you to select a new IP. “Auto Start at Startup” launches the app automatically after turning on or rebooting your smartphone. “Enable Basic authentication” activates fields for a username and password for proxy access.
   
5. Activating “Enable network bridge” allows other devices connected to your router to use the selected proxy server, creating a local network with uniform internet connection parameters.
   

The configuration process for other proxy types is similar, ensuring an easy setup experience.

Oxy Proxy Manager - an easy and versatile app for Android

Proxies offer a range of functionalities while being user-friendly and simple to configure. The Android app OXY Proxy Manager exemplifies this, making it easy for even those not versed in digital technology to:

• Connect to remote proxy servers independently.
• Maintain anonymity by masking their IP address.
• Enhance device security.
• Bypass regional content restrictions.

Developed by OxyLabs, this application is compatible with Android devices running version 5.0 and higher. OXY Proxy Manager allows quick internet connection setup with just a few clicks and doesn't require extensive configuration. Its installer is lightweight, occupying just over 9 MB of phone memory, and the app itself is straightforward, avoiding any unnecessary complexity.

The developers take pride in the app's compatibility with all proxy protocols and support for the latest Android versions. The free version of OXY Proxy Manager meets the needs of most users. It allows adding an unlimited number of proxy servers, ideal for simulating different geographic locations for accessing various websites. A key advantage of the app is that it operates without needing root access to Android, ensuring OS security and simplifying application usage.

Step-by-step proxy setup in Oxy Proxy Manager

To begin using Oxy Proxy Manager, download it from official sources such as the Google Play store or the developer’s website. While downloading APKs from other portals is possible, it's not recommended due to potential security risks. Follow these steps to configure a proxy:

1. After installation, open the app from your phone's general menu. The interface, presented solely in English, is straightforward and won't hinder the proxy setup process. Start by clicking the green “Add new proxy” button.
   
2. In the new window, enter the required information. The first field, “Name”, is for identifying the proxy setting. This is especially useful if you plan to configure multiple connections.
   
3. The “Connection type” is preset to HTTP, as it's currently the only supported protocol. Fill in the “Server IP” and “Port” details.
   
4. Next, complete the “Username” and “Password” fields for proxy authorization. After entering all the necessary data, click “Create” to save the configuration.
   
5. A list of all configured proxy connections will appear. To activate a connection, like the one named “Test”, click its corresponding button.
   
6. To disconnect from a proxy server, return to the app and select the “Disconnect” button.
   

It's advisable to test each application to determine the best fit for your internet needs, whether for social networking or ensuring a fast, stable connection for online gaming.