NekoRay functions as a proxy utility client for Windows users who need to bypass internet restrictions, improve online privacy, or access region-restricted content. The application features a clean interface while supporting VMess, VLESS, Shadowsocks, and Trojan protocols.
Main advantages:
- Straightforward interface with minimal learning curve
- Multiple protocol support for different connection needs
- Customizable traffic routing options
NekoRay serves privacy-conscious users, people facing internet restrictions, and anyone needing access to geo-blocked content without unnecessary complexity.
Background and evolution of NekoRay
NekoRay developed in response to the need for accessible proxy clients as internet restrictions increased worldwide. Created within the V2Ray ecosystem, NekoRay gives Windows users a graphical interface to sophisticated proxy technologies.
V2Ray origins
The V2Ray project began as a toolkit for internet freedom, focusing on circumventing network restrictions. While V2Ray offered powerful capabilities, its command-line interface limited widespread adoption. NekoRay bridged this gap by providing a visual interface to these technologies.
Technical architecture
Built with the Qt framework, NekoRay connects to the sing-box backend. This design combines accessibility with advanced proxy capabilities. The name “NekoRay” incorporates “Neko” (Japanese for “cat”), reflecting the software’s agility and independence.
Position among proxy tools
NekoRay occupies a distinct space in proxy software:
- More customizable than commercial VPN applications
- More accessible than command-line tools
- Balances simplicity with advanced functionality
The latest stable version (4.0.1) released in December 2024 remains widely used across Windows systems.
Setup process
System requirements
- Windows 7/8/10/11 (64-bit recommended)
- 50MB disk space
- Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime
Installation steps
1. Download the software from https://en.nekoray.org/download/
Select the Windows 64-bit ZIP file (e.g., nekoray-4.0.1-windows64.zip)
2. Extract files to your preferred location:
Right-click the ZIP file and select “Extract All…”. Choose a location such as C:\Program Files\NekoRay or C:\NekoRay
3. Configure administrator access:
- Navigate to the extracted folder
- Right-click nekobox.exe
- Select “Properties” → “Compatibility” → Check “Run this program as administrator” → “OK”
4. Start the application by double-clicking nekobox.exe
No installation wizard or system modifications needed.
Configuration basics
Setting up your first connection:
Creating a connection Profile
1. Add a new profile:
- Click “Server” in the top menu
- Select “New Profile”
- Choose your connection type
2. Input connection details:
- Name: Create a descriptive identifier
- Address: Enter server address
- Port: Enter server port
- Add protocol-specific information
- Click “OK” to save
3. Connect:
- Select your profile
- Right-click and select “Start” (or press Enter)
Protocol options
NekoRay supports multiple connection types:
- HTTP/SOCKS: Basic protocols with wide compatibility
- Shadowsocks: Balanced performance and security
- VMess/VLESS: Enhanced security features
- Trojan: Designed to evade deep packet inspection
Select based on your provider’s offerings or specific requirements.
Verifying connection
To confirm your connection works:
- Visit https://pixelscan.net/
- Verify your IP address shows the proxy server’s location
- Test previously inaccessible websites
Key features
Traffic routing options
NekoRay provides two primary routing methods:
TUN Mode:
- Directs all system traffic through the proxy
- Works with any application
- Requires administrator rights
- Activate via the “TUN Mode” toolbar button
System proxy mode:
- Routes traffic only from applications using system proxy settings
- Works with most browsers automatically
- Requires fewer permissions
- Activate via the “System Proxy” toolbar button
System Proxy Mode works well for regular browsing, while TUN Mode provides comprehensive coverage.
Managing subscriptions
For subscription-based proxy services:
- Navigate to “Server” → “Subscription Settings”
- Click “Add”
- Enter your subscription URL
- Select “OK” then “Update Subscription Now”
This automatically imports and organizes server profiles.
Server performance testing
To identify optimal servers:
- Select “Server” → “Current Group” → “TCP Ping”
- Review the results
- Lower ping times indicate faster connections
- Connect to the server with minimal latency
Troubleshooting guide
Common Issues
Failed connections:
- Verify server address and port accuracy
- Check authentication credentials
- Confirm subscription status
Performance problems:
- Select servers geographically closer to you
- Try alternative protocols like Shadowsocks or Trojan
- Use TCP Ping to identify lower-latency options
TUN mode errors:
- Run NekoRay with administrator privileges
- Restart the application
- Temporarily disable security software
Optimization tips
- Choose servers in nearby locations for better speed
- Prioritize consistent ping times over occasionally faster servers
- Use System Proxy instead of TUN Mode when conserving battery
Security considerations
- Update NekoRay regularly
- Use encrypted protocols for sensitive activities
- Disconnect when not actively using the proxy
