How to Change Your Android IP Address Using a Paid Proxy

How to Change Your Android IP Address Using a Paid Proxy

To change your Android device's IP address using a paid proxy, you need to follow a few simple steps. A proxy acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet, altering your IP address by redirecting traffic through the proxy server. Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up a paid proxy on Android:

1. Choose a Paid Proxy Service

The first step is to select a reliable paid proxy service. Some popular options include:

• Smartproxy
• Luminati (Bright Data)
• MyPrivateProxy
• Oxylabs

These services provide a wide range of servers in different geographical locations, allowing you to change your IP address to another country or region as needed.

2. Get the Proxy Credentials

Once you’ve selected a paid proxy service, you’ll need the credentials provided by the service, which usually include:

• Proxy server address (IP or URL)
• Proxy port number
• Username and password (if the service requires authentication)

3. Set Up the Proxy on Android

There are two main ways to configure a proxy on Android: manually in Wi-Fi settings or using a proxy application. Let’s explore both options.

Option 1: Manual Proxy Configuration

If you prefer to manually configure the proxy, follow these steps:

1. Access Wi-Fi Settings:

   • On your Android device, go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
   • Connect to the Wi-Fi network where you want to use the proxy.

2. Configure the Proxy:

   • Tap and hold on the Wi-Fi network you're connected to or tap the settings icon next to the network name.
   • Select Modify network or Edit network.
   • Check the option Show advanced options.
   • In Proxy settings, switch to Manual.

3. Enter Proxy Information:

   • In the Proxy hostname field, enter the server address provided by your paid proxy service.
   • In the Proxy port field, enter the corresponding port number.
   • If authentication is required, you may be prompted to enter the username and password later via a browser or app.

4. Save and Connect:

   • Tap Save to apply the settings.
   • Your Android device is now connected to the internet through the proxy, changing your IP address.

Option 2: Use a Proxy Application (Recommended)

If you prefer a simpler solution or need to change your IP quickly, you can use a proxy app. Some paid proxy services provide their own apps, or you can use generic apps that support proxies.

1. Download a Proxy App:

   • Go to the Google Play Store and search for proxy apps. Some good options include:
     • ProxyDroid
     • Orbot (supports SOCKS5 proxy)
     • Shadowsocks (for more advanced proxies)

2. Configure the Proxy in the App:

   • Open the app and enter the credentials provided by your proxy service (server address, port, username, and password).
   • Connect through the app, and the internet traffic from your device will be routed through the proxy, changing your IP address.

4. Test if the IP Has Changed

After setting up the proxy, it's important to check if your IP address has indeed changed:

1. Open a browser on your Android device.
2. Visit a website that shows your IP address, such as WhatIsMyIP.com or IPinfo.io.
3. Verify that the displayed IP address matches the proxy server you configured.

Final Considerations

• Specific Apps: Proxy settings, especially when configured manually, usually only work for Wi-Fi network traffic. If you want to change the IP across all networks (including 4G/5G), consider using a VPN instead of a proxy.

• Security and Privacy: When using a paid proxy, make sure to choose a reliable provider that respects user privacy and offers fast, stable connections. Be cautious when entering sensitive information, especially when using proxies without encryption.

By following these steps, you can effectively and securely change your Android device's IP address using a paid proxy, improving your online privacy or accessing region-restricted content.