Tell a Mac to use a proxy server system-wide (browser, services, AIM, etc)

[ahrenba]

Hey everyone,

I've setup a little VPN using Hamachi and a proxy server on my home computer. I'll be taking my Mac out on the road with me and connecting to that VPN to secure the traffic.

I know that I can just configure proxy settings on an application-by-application basis, but is there a way to tell the entire Mac to use this proxy server for ALL programs?

I found something that may be promising in system prefs -> network -> proxies

Is this right?

 

[scienide09]

Making the changes exactly where you said should do it. Likely you'll only need to modify settings for the http and https proxies, which will cover your web browsing activities. I'm not sure about changes needed for iChat or other services.

For extra security, you could do it there and in the apps themselves.

 

[ahrenba]

Making the changes exactly where you said should do it. Likely you'll only need to modify settings for the http and https proxies, which will cover your web browsing activities. I'm not sure about changes needed for iChat or other services.

For extra security, you could do it there and in the apps themselves.

Awesome, I'll give it a try and do some testing tonight. Thanks for the help.

 

[-tWv-]

system prefs -> network -> proxies

Is this right?

Yep, thats right. This will change the settings for all internet connections.

 

[ahrenba]

Alright, awesome!

One other question. Does anyone have any experience with Privoxy?

From my understanding, it can only proxy HTTP and HTTPS. Is this true? What about other protocols like FTP, or the ones being used for Instant Messaging clients? What would happen if I try to route those through Privoxy?

 

[ahrenba]

Alright, I am on the road and my VPN/proxy is working great. I have the proxy setup in my browser only.

However, when I try to enable system-wide proxy (in prefs -> network -> advanced -> proxies), other apps can't even connect to the net, yet the browser (still configured separately, although with the same settings) works.

Any ideas?

Do any of you have system wide proxies?