Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available almost everywhere: in cafes, airports, hotels, shopping centers. They are convenient, but not always secure. When connecting to someone else’s network, users risk data leaks, password interception, and even device hacking.
One of the most reliable ways to protect yourself when using public networks is to connect through a proxy server. It helps hide your IP address, encrypt traffic, and minimize threats that may come from unreliable Wi-Fi networks. In this article, we will look at the risks involved, why you need a proxy, and how to set it up correctly.
How to secure your smartphone and laptop when using someone else’s Wi-Fi
To reduce the risks when using public Wi-Fi, you should follow a few rules:
- Use a VPN or proxy for Wi-Fi security — they encrypt your traffic and hide your IP address.
This makes you less vulnerable to hackers. - Do not enter passwords or personal information, especially when banking online or using social media. Otherwise, malicious actors could intercept them.
- Use HTTPS websites – encrypted connections (indicated by a padlock icon in your browser) are more secure. They protect your data from being intercepted.
- Turn off Wi-Fi when not in use – this will reduce the risk of attacks and surveillance. A simple measure that can save you from trouble.
Following these recommendations will help minimize the risks when working on public networks. However, the best protection remains the use of proxy servers or VPNs.
Dangers of public Wi-Fi and risks of using someone else’s Wi-Fi
There are certain risks associated with using someone else’s Wi-Fi:
- Traffic interception – hackers can listen in on data transmitted over the network. This is especially dangerous when entering passwords and payment details.
- Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack – an attacker intercepts the connection between you and the website, altering or stealing information. This method is widely used for data theft.
- Fake access points – Hackers create fake networks with names of well-known places (“Free Starbucks Wi-Fi”) and then steal data from users who connect to them. If you connect to such a network, you risk completely compromising your privacy.
- Malware – if the network is poorly secured, malicious files can infiltrate your device. Even a simple connection can lead to virus infection.
Using a proxy helps minimize the dangers of public Wi-Fi by providing additional protection.
Why use a proxy for Wi-Fi security?
Proxy servers for Wi-Fi perform several functions:
- Hide your IP address – your real IP remains hidden, and websites only see the proxy’s IP. This makes tracking more difficult.
- Encrypt your connection – some proxies support SSL encryption, which protects your data from being intercepted. This is useful for protecting personal data.
- Bypass geographic restrictions – allow you to access websites that are blocked in your country or region. This is especially useful when traveling.
- Filter traffic – some proxies block malicious websites, reducing the risk of virus infection. This is an additional level of protection.
Using a proxy together with a VPN provides maximum protection on public networks.
How to choose proxy servers for Wi-Fi?
When choosing a proxy, it is important to consider:
- Proxy type – residential and mobile proxy services are best suited, as they are more difficult to block.
Data center proxies are less reliable. - Encryption – SSL proxies provide additional security. Without encryption, your data may be vulnerable.
- Connection speed – slow speeds can interfere with comfortable surfing. This is especially important for streaming video or working with cloud services.
- Service — proxy testing will help you detect disconnections in a timely manner.
Popular providers: Proxy-Seller, Smartproxy, Bright Data, Soax. The choice depends on your budget and tasks.
Instructions for setting up a proxy in Windows
There are several ways to set it up. Below are instructions with detailed descriptions of the steps.
Setting up through system settings
To set up a proxy in Windows, follow these steps:
- Open “Settings” → “Network & Internet” → ‘Proxy’.
- In the “Proxy settings” section, enable “Use a proxy server”.
- Enter the IP address and port of the proxy server.
- Click “Save”.
Now all internet traffic will go through the proxy. This will add an extra layer of security when using Wi-Fi.
Using a proxy through your browser
In Google Chrome:
- Open “Settings” → ‘System’ → “Open proxy settings”.
- Go to “Network settings” and enter the proxy details.
In Mozilla Firefox:
- Go to “Settings” → “General” → ‘Network’.
- Select “Manual proxy configuration” and enter the details.
This method allows you to use a proxy only in the browser, leaving other programs unchanged.
Conclusion: why use a proxy on public Wi-Fi?
Using someone else’s Wi-Fi without protection is a serious risk. Proxies help hide your IP address, encrypt traffic, and protect your data from interception. This answers the question of why you need a proxy on public Wi-Fi. Such a server is especially important when working in cafes, airports, and other public places.
To protect yourself:
- Use anonymous and resident proxies for maximum security.
- Configure the proxy through Windows or your browser for easy connection.
- Additionally, use a VPN for better data protection.
Follow these measures and purchase proven proxy solutions to safely use the internet on any Wi-Fi network without the risk of data leaks.
