How to Set Up SOCKS5 Proxies: Step-by-Step Guide

A practical guide to configuring SOCKS5 proxies in browsers, bots, and command-line tools. Works with all Botosaur proxy plans.

All Botosaur proxies support SOCKS5 protocol alongside HTTP/HTTPS. SOCKS5 is generally preferred because it handles all types of traffic (not just web), supports UDP, and offers better performance for many applications.

Your Proxy Credentials

After purchasing, you'll find your proxy details in the dashboard. Each proxy includes:

  • Host/IP — the proxy server address
  • Port — the connection port
  • Username — for authentication
  • Password — for authentication

Browser Setup (Chrome/Firefox)

For browser-based use, we recommend a proxy management extension like FoxyProxy (Firefox) or Proxy SwitchyOmega (Chrome):

  1. Install the extension from your browser's add-on store
  2. Create a new proxy profile
  3. Set protocol to SOCKS5
  4. Enter your proxy host and port
  5. Enable authentication and enter your username/password
  6. Activate the profile

Bot Software

Most bot software (RuneScape bots, sneaker bots, social media tools) have a proxy settings section. The format is typically:

host:port:username:password

Or for URL format:

socks5://username:password@host:port

Command Line (curl)

curl --socks5 host:port --proxy-user username:password https://api.ipify.org

Testing Your Connection

After setup, verify your proxy is working by checking your IP:

  1. Visit https://api.ipify.org — should show your proxy IP, not your real one
  2. Check for DNS leaks at a DNS leak test site
  3. Verify the country matches your proxy's location

Need Help?

If you run into issues, contact our support team and we'll help you get connected.