Tinyproxy – The Ultimate Guide (with Scrapeless Proxies Recommendation)

As someone who has configured several proxy servers, I can say that Tinyproxy is a lightweight and efficient solution for your proxy needs. Whether you want to improve your online privacy, manage internet access, or handle small-scale automation, Tinyproxy is an excellent choice.

This guide takes you step-by-step through setting up, configuring, using, and troubleshooting Tinyproxy, along with a robust alternative for advanced users: Scrapeless Proxies.

1. What is Tinyproxy?

Tinyproxy is a small, fast, and versatile HTTP/HTTPS proxy server. Unlike full-featured proxy servers, Tinyproxy is lightweight, uses minimal system resources, and is ideal for embedded devices or small servers. It’s perfect for users who need basic proxy functionality without extra overhead.

2. Tinyproxy Pros and Cons

3. How to Install Tinyproxy

1. Update your package list:

sudo apt update

2. Install Tinyproxy:

sudo apt install tinyproxy

3. Start the service:

sudo systemctl start tinyproxy

4. Enable Tinyproxy at boot:

sudo systemctl enable tinyproxy

4. How to Configure Tinyproxy

The configuration file tinyproxy.conf is located at /etc/tinyproxy/.

a. Basic Configuration

• Set the port: Default is 8888.
• Allow specific IP addresses:

Allow 192.168.1.0/24

• Configure logging:

LogFile "/var/log/tinyproxy/tinyproxy.log"
LogLevel Info

• Max clients:

MaxClients 100

• Timeout:

Timeout 600

• HTTPS support:

ConnectPort 443

• Anonymous mode:

Anonymous "headers"

• Basic authentication:

BasicAuth username:password

Save changes and restart:

sudo systemctl restart tinyproxy

b. Advanced Configuration

• Content filtering: Use the Filter directive to block URLs.
• Bandwidth control: Integrate with Linux tc or other network tools.

5. How to Set Up a Browser to Use Tinyproxy

Google Chrome

• Settings → System → Open Proxy Settings → LAN Settings → Enter Tinyproxy IP and port

Firefox

• Options → Network Settings → Manual proxy → Enter IP and port → Apply

Edge

• Settings → System and Performance → Open Proxy Settings → LAN Settings → Enter IP and port

Safari

• System Preferences → Network → Advanced → Proxies → Enter IP and port

6. How to Set Up a Mobile Device

Android

• Wi-Fi → Modify Network → Advanced options → Proxy → Manual → Enter IP and port

iOS

• Wi-Fi → Tap network → HTTP Proxy → Manual → Enter IP and port

7. How to Test Your Proxy Configuration

• Check your IP at WhatIsMyIP.com
• Try accessing restricted sites
• Check logs:

sudo tail -f /var/log/tinyproxy/tinyproxy.log

8. Optional Alternative: Scrapeless Proxies

For users who need more advanced features, automation, or high-volume tasks, Scrapeless Proxies is an excellent complement to Tinyproxy. It offers:

• High-speed connections for browsing and scraping
• Automatic IP rotation to prevent bans
• Geo-targeting for location-specific tasks
• Seamless integration with automation tools

This makes Scrapeless Proxies ideal for:

• Social media automation
• Large-scale web scraping
• Multi-account management
• Enhanced privacy and security

Tip: You can use Tinyproxy for lightweight tasks and testing, while leveraging Scrapeless Proxies for more demanding automation and large-scale workflows.

9. How to Use Scrapeless Proxies

Click Sign Up and log in to access the Scrapeless Dashboard.

Top Up Wallet

Create a Channel

1. In the left-hand panel, select Proxy Solutions, then choose IPv6 Proxy.
   

2. Click the Create Channel button to open the proxy creation page.

3. Set your password and limit, then click Save to complete the setup.

Use the Proxy

1. In the Residential Proxy channel list, select a proxy channel and click Start.

2. Click the Generate button to create a proxy or view an example.

10. Final Words

Tinyproxy is an excellent lightweight proxy solution for basic use, privacy, and small-scale automation. However, for advanced users, automation workflows, and high-volume scraping, we recommend Scrapeless Proxies.