Does a "no Proxy" setting affect security on my home network?
I have determined that the the only proxy setting that makes my computer perform optimally is the "no proxy" setting. I have read, however, that this setting could leave my computer open to hacking and other intrusions. I am on a home network with no other users. My ISP is Comcast. I do not run any protective software other than what Windows provides and whatever protection a router gives. Is it safe to set the proxy setting to "no proxy." Even though I have a high-speed internet connection, I am unable to access most sites for up to 30 seconds and sometime I just get time-outs. When I changed the setting to "no proxy," I was able to connect to sites lightening fast. I have always thought it was Comcast, but it seems that it is this particular setting that is the culprit. However, if the "no proxy" setting jeopardizes my security, I will change it to another setting.
Chosen solution
No, it is not a security threat to your computer.
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A proxy is an intermediary between you and your network service provider. That intermediary might be a security software product that filters your web access (but you said you don't use one), or parental control software (but I think only Windows 8.1 and higher included that), or a paid service (e.g., private VPN), or... malware.
Could you supplement your regular security scans with the free "on demand" scanners listed in our support article: Troubleshoot Firefox issues caused by malware. Hopefully that will clean out any spyware or other malware that might be intercepting your browsing.
My problem isn't with malware. I have had the same problem for many years using malware detection software and not. Connecting to websites has always been slow going until I changed the proxy protocol. I just want to know if the change to "no proxy" is a security threat to my computer.
Chosen Solution
No, it is not a security threat to your computer.