Why does the Edge still show the local IP after using a proxy?

In today’s digital world, internet privacy and security have become significant concerns. Many users rely on proxies to maintain anonymity while browsing the web. However, an interesting issue arises for those using Microsoft Edge with a proxy: despite configuring the proxy, the browser still displays the local IP address. This situation raises questions for users who expect their proxy server to mask their real IP address. Understanding why this happens requires a deeper dive into how proxies work and the various technical aspects of web traffic routing.

Understanding Proxies and Their Role

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between the user's device and the internet. When you use a proxy, your requests to websites are sent through this server, which modifies your request and forwards it to the destination. The proxy then returns the response to your device, making it appear as if the response came directly from the proxy server rather than your device.

This process is intended to mask your real IP address. However, there are specific reasons why Edge may still show your local IP even when using a proxy.

Reasons Behind Local IP Display in Edge

1. Proxy Type and Configuration Issues

One of the main reasons Edge continues to display the local IP is due to the type of proxy being used. Not all proxies are created equal. Some proxies, like HTTP proxies, may only mask web traffic on a specific protocol (HTTP). In contrast, a more comprehensive proxy, such as a socks5 proxy or VPN, routes all traffic through the proxy server, including non-HTTP protocols.

If you're using a proxy that isn't set up to handle all types of internet traffic, or if it’s misconfigured, it may not effectively mask the local IP address. Additionally, certain proxies, especially transparent proxies, might forward the real IP address along with the request, resulting in the local IP being visible.

2. WebRTC Leaks

WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is a technology that enables peer-to-peer communication directly between browsers. While WebRTC has benefits, it can also cause a local IP address leak, even when using a proxy. This happens because WebRTC may bypass the proxy server and directly expose the local IP address to websites or services.

Many browsers, including Edge, use WebRTC to improve communication capabilities. Unfortunately, WebRTC can reveal your actual local IP address, even when you’re connected to a proxy. To fix this issue, you can disable WebRTC in the browser settings or use extensions that block WebRTC leaks.

3. DNS Requests and Local DNS Resolution

When you use a proxy, DNS requests (the process of translating website names into IP addresses) should ideally go through the proxy server. However, if DNS requests are still routed through your local network, the proxy server will not be able to mask your real IP address. This issue is often referred to as a DNS leak.

Edge, like other browsers, might rely on your system’s default DNS resolver rather than using the proxy's DNS. If your DNS queries are still resolved locally, your local IP address will be exposed through these requests, even though you're using a proxy for web browsing.

4. Browser Cache and Cookies

Another reason Edge might still show the local IP is due to cached data or cookies from previous browsing sessions. If you have visited a website before using your real IP address, it may store this information in the browser’s cache or cookies. When you return to the same site, it might retrieve this data and display your local IP address, even if you are using a proxy now.

Clearing your browser cache and cookies regularly can help prevent this problem, ensuring that your proxy settings take effect properly.

5. Proxy Server Compatibility

Not all proxy servers are compatible with every browser or operating system. Some proxies may not fully support Microsoft Edge or may require additional configuration to work properly with the browser. If there’s an incompatibility between the proxy server and Edge, the proxy might not route your traffic as expected, leading to the exposure of your local IP address.

Additionally, some proxy services offer specific software or browser extensions that must be installed to work effectively. Without these, Edge might fail to route traffic through the proxy correctly, resulting in a leak of your local IP.

Steps to Resolve the Issue

1. Use a More Reliable Proxy Service

To avoid exposing your local IP address, ensure you are using a high-quality proxy or VPN service. Opt for a service that supports all types of internet traffic and offers advanced security features. If you’re using an HTTP proxy, consider upgrading to a SOCKS5 proxy or VPN that can route all traffic, not just web requests.

2. Disable WebRTC

Disabling WebRTC is a quick solution to prevent local IP leaks. In Microsoft Edge, this can be done through the settings or by using extensions that block WebRTC. By disabling WebRTC, you reduce the risk of exposing your local IP address.

3. Use DNS Servers from the Proxy

To prevent DNS leaks, configure your system to use DNS servers provided by the proxy or VPN service. This ensures that all DNS requests are routed through the proxy, effectively hiding your real IP address. Some proxy services automatically configure DNS settings, while others require manual setup.

4. Clear Cache and Cookies

Regularly clearing your browser's cache and cookies is essential for maintaining privacy. This ensures that old data, such as your local IP address, is not used by websites you visit. You can clear your cache and cookies through the settings menu in Microsoft Edge.

5. Check Proxy and Browser Compatibility

Ensure that the proxy service you’re using is fully compatible with Microsoft Edge and your operating system. If necessary, consult the proxy service's documentation or customer support to verify proper configuration. Additionally, consider using a dedicated proxy extension designed specifically for Microsoft Edge to ensure optimal functionality.

While using a proxy should ideally mask your real IP address, there are several technical factors that could cause your local IP to be exposed in Microsoft Edge. Proxy configuration, WebRTC leaks, DNS resolution, cached data, and browser compatibility all play a role in whether your real IP is revealed. By understanding these factors and following the suggested steps, you can improve your online privacy and ensure that your proxy works as intended, hiding your local IP address from websites and services.