Setting up Mac OS X to use WSU's Proxy Server with any browser

Note: Because the proxy server checks each new connection, it tends to slow down Web browsing. For faster connections, turn off the proxy server when you are not using a resource that is limited to Wayne State users.

Turning on the proxy server

  1. Pull down the Apple menu at the top left of your computer monitor screen and click System Preferences.
  2. On the System Preferences menu there are two Network icons. Click either one.
  3. On the Network menu next to Show, click the drop-down menu and select Internal Modem for a remote connection or Built-in Ethernet for an Ethernet connection.
  4. Click the Proxies tab. (See image below for steps 4, 5, and 6.)
  5. Click the Web Proxy (HTTP) check box and then Fill in the boxes as follows:

    Web Proxy (HTTP) proxy.wayne.edu Port 8080

  6. Click the Apply Now button.

    Network window

Authenticating yourself as part of WSU

You will be prompted for your user ID and password when you open your browser or when you first attempt to use a Web resource that is only for Wayne State use.

  1. Fill in the information requested:

    User ID: Type your WSU AccessID (e.g., xy6789)
    Password: Type the password for your WSU AccessID

  2. Click OK.

Using your browser

Use your Web browser as you normally would. You shouldn't have any problems accessing Web sites, including those sites that are limited to Wayne State users. However, you may notice slightly slower performance. This is normal because all of your requests are routed through the proxy server on their way to and from your browser.

Turning off the proxy server

To temporarily turn off the proxy server settings:

  1. Pull down the Apple menu at the top left of your computer monitor screen and click System Preferences.
  2. On the System Preferences menu there are two Network icons. Click either one.
  3. On the Network menu next to Show, click the drop-down menu and select Internal Modem for a remote connection or Built-in Ethernet for an Ethernet connection.
  4. Click the Proxies tab.
  5. Click to clear the Web Proxy (HTTP) check box.
  6. Click the Apply Now button.