Weird Proxy Setting Problem -- Is it OK to set to "Auto Detect-Proxy Settings"?

[WhipperSnapper]

I have been using my current computer for years and have never come across this problem until today. Suddenly both Firefox and Internet Explorer began reporting a proxy problem. The Firefox message is:

The proxy server is refusing connections
Firefox is configured to use a proxy server that is refusing connections.

* Check the proxy settings to make sure that they are correct.
* Contact your network administrator to make sure the proxy server is
working.

So, I changed the proxy setting to "Auto-Detect Proxy Settings for this Network" and it works again.

Are there any advantages or disadvantages to doing that? Is anyone else having the same issue? (Is it just me, or is it everybody else?)

 

[drebo]

The first time you try to connect will take a little longer is all.

Probably some kind of BHO or malware, though.

 

[spidey07]

Or man in the middle attack. The bad thing about "auto detect" is it opens you up to being hacked if somebody is listening to you network *cough* anything wireless *cough*.

 

[TomDMiller7788]

Put to no proxy or get a fast private proxy or VPN