Enhanced Authentication for Problematic Proxies
We’re pleased to announce the release of Web Proxy Checker version 2.111 – our reliable tool for testing proxy server functionality now includes improved handling for CONNECT (HTTPS) proxies with non-standard authentication behavior.
Standard Proxy Authentication Flow
When connecting to a proxy requiring Basic Authentication, the expected protocol is:
- Client (browser or our tool) connects without credentials
- Proxy responds with “407 Proxy Authentication Required”
- Client reconnects with the Proxy-Authorization HTTP header
- Connection proceeds if credentials are valid
This standard flow is used by all major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) and has been Web Proxy Checker’s default behavior.
The Challenge: Non-Compliant Proxies
During testing, we identified proxies that don’t follow authentication standards. Instead of returning the proper 407 error, they immediately close connections when credentials are missing. This creates a compatibility issue where legitimate authentication attempts fail.
New Feature: “Connect Basic Authentication” Setting
Version 2.111 introduces a solution on the HTTP tab: the new “Connect Basic Authentication” option.
How it works:
- Disabled (Default): Standard behavior – waits for 407 response before sending credentials
- Enabled: Immediately includes Proxy-Authorization header in the first connection attempt
- Result: Compatibility with proxies that require immediate authentication
Usage Recommendations:
- Most users should keep this setting disabled (works with standard proxies)
- Enable only when encountering proxies that close connections without 407 responses
- Particularly useful for certain corporate or custom proxy setups
Quick Setup:
- Launch Web Proxy Checker v2.111
- Go to the HTTP tab
- Find “Connect Basic Authentication” checkbox
- Enable for problematic proxies, disable for standard ones
What This Means for You:
- ✓ Wider proxy compatibility
- ✓ No more failed connections with non-standard proxies
- ✓ Backward compatibility maintained
- ✓ Easy toggle between authentication modes
Upgrade Today
Download Web Proxy Checker v2.111 and experience improved compatibility with all your proxy servers!