How to Fix and Prevent “Windows Could Not Automatically Detect This Network’s Proxy Settings”

The error “Windows could not automatically detect this network’s proxy settings” often occurs when something wrong with your network configuration, proxy settings, or system files. That means your computer will fail to access the internet.

In this guide, we’ll explain the causes of this error, its 10 fixes(8 Key Fixes + 2 Advanced Fixes), and how to prevent happening again to help you solve the problem.

Why Does This Error Occur?

This error can occur for several reasons. We list 5 common ones here:

1. Incorrect Proxy Settings – Wrong configuration of the proxy server can result in blocking access to networks.

2. Malware or Virus Infection – Some malware modifies proxy settings to direct all internet traffic to the malware author’s servers, hijacking your internet traffic and raising this error.

3. Corrupt Network Drivers – Outdated or damaged network adapters may cause connectivity issues.

4. Windows Network Configuration Issues – Typically, incorrect TCP/IP settings or DNS issues can also provoke this error.

5. Third-Party Software Conflicts – For example, VPN, firewall, security software, etc. They can affect proxy settings and trigger this error.

How to Fix “Windows Could Not Automatically Detect This Network’s Proxy Settings” Error(8 Key Fixes + 2 Advanced Fixes)

After figuring out the reason for this error, next we will explain how to fix it. Here are several ways to fix this issue, and they are listed following a logical troubleshooting flow:

1. Basic fixes (Restart system & check proxy settings).

2. Windows-built troubleshooting tools (Troubleshooter & Updates).

3. Network resets (Command Prompt & Driver Updates).

4. Security-related fixes (Malware Scan, Proxy Services, Firewall).

5. Advanced Fixes (Group Policy & System Restore)

If none of these methods work, we recommend you consider contacting your Internet Service Provider(ISP).

1. Check Your Internet Connection First(May Simply Restart Your Computer and Router)

Before diving into more complex solutions, ensure your internet connection is active.

Steps:

• Access a Website: Open a web browser and try accessing a website to confirm connectivity.
• Restart Your Computer and Router: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve it.

2. Disable VPN or Proxy Settings

If you're using a VPN or proxy service, disable it temporarily. Some VPNs may override your network settings, causing conflicts.

Steps:

• Press “Win + I” → Go to Network & Internet → Proxy.
• Turn off “Use a proxy server” and enable “Automatically detect settings”.
• If using a VPN, disconnect it under Network & Internet → VPN.

3. Run Windows Troubleshooter & Check for Updates

Windows can automatically detect and fix network problems.

Steps:

• Press “Win + I” → Go to Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters.
• Select Internet Connections → Run the troubleshooter.
• Also, check for Windows updates (Press “Win + I” → Update & Security → Check for updates).

4. Reset Network Settings via Command Prompt

Resetting your network settings can help clear any misconfiguration.

Steps:

• Open Command Prompt: Search “cmd” in the taskbar, and right-click Command Prompt to select Run as administrator.
• Run Reset Commands: Enter the following command

For Copy:

netsh int ip reset

netsh winsock reset

ipconfig /release

ipconfig /renew

ipconfig /flushdns

• Restart Your Computer.

5. Update or Reinstall Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupt network drivers can cause proxy-related issues.

Steps:

• Press “Win + X” and select Device Manager.
• Expand Network Adapters and right-click your active network device.
• Select Update driver → Search automatically for drivers.
• If the update doesn’t work, select Uninstall device, restart your computer, and let Windows reinstall automatically.

6. Scan for Malware & Remove Infections

Some malware modifies your proxy settings to redirect traffic through malicious servers. Running a malware scan can help.

Steps:

• Open Windows Security (Press “Win + S”, type “Windows Security”, and press “Enter”).
• Click Virus & threat protection → Select Quick Scan.
• If threats are found, follow the on-screen instructions to remove them.
• You can also use third-party tools like Malwarebytes for a deeper scan.

7. Restart Windows Proxy Services

Your system’s proxy services may not be running correctly. Restarting them can help.

Steps:

• Press “Win + R”, type “services.msc”, and press “Enter”.
• Find these services:

a. WinHTTP Web Proxy Auto-Discovery Service

b. Network Connections

• Right-click each service and select Restart.
• Restart your computer and check if it works.

8. Disable Antivirus Firewall Temporarily (If Necessary)

Some antivirus software may interfere with your network settings. Try to disable them temporarily to see if the issue persists.

Steps:

• Open Windows Security (Press"Win + S", type “Windows Security”, and press "Enter")
• Click Firewall & network protection → Temporarily disable Windows Defender Firewall and test your internet connection.

9. Check Group Policy Settings (For Windows Pro Editions)

If you're using a Pro edition of Windows, Group Policy settings might enforce proxy configurations.

Steps:

• Open Run Dialog: Press “Windows + R”, type “gpedit.msc”, and pree “Enter”.
• Go to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Connections.
• Check Proxy Settings: Ensure that settings related to proxy configurations are not configured to enforce unusual behaviors.

10. Perform a System Restore (Last Resort Option, If the Issue Started Recently)

If the issue started after a recent update or software installation, you can restore Windows to an earlier state.

Steps:

• Press “Win + R”, type “rstrui”, and press “Enter”.
• Select a restore point from before the issue started and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system.

How to Prevent This Issue in the Future?

To avoid encountering this issue again, follow these best practices:

• Keep Windows & drivers updated.
• Avoid unnecessary proxy/VPN configurations.
• Avoid installing unknown software that may modify system settings.
• Use a reliable antivirus program and perform regular scans to prevent malware infections.
• Restart your router and network adapter periodically
• Regularly check your proxy settings (inetcpl.cpl) to ensure they haven’t been changed without permission.

Conclusion

The error “Windows could not automatically detect this network’s proxy settings” can be frustrating, but following these troubleshooting steps should help you resolve it quickly. If none of the methods work, you may need to check for deeper system issues or contact your ISP for further assistance. Regularly checking your proxy settings and network configuration can help prevent this issue from recurring.