Successfully Proxying Webpack Dev Server Requests using http-proxy-agent
Learn how to configure your Webpack Dev Server to access company resources through a proxy server using `http-proxy-agent`, overcoming common challenges.
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This video is based on the question https://stackoverflow.com/q/70365383/ asked by the user 'Michael Colesnic' ( https://stackoverflow.com/u/13883640/ ) and on the answer https://stackoverflow.com/a/70403081/ provided by the user 'Michael Colesnic' ( https://stackoverflow.com/u/13883640/ ) at 'Stack Overflow' website. Thanks to these great users and Stackexchange community for their contributions.
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How to Configure Webpack Dev Server for Proxying Requests
If you're a developer working with Webpack, you may find yourself needing to access certain company resources behind a proxy server. This can pose challenges, especially if you're accustomed to using browser extensions for this purpose. In this post, we’ll explore how to set up Webpack's dev server to work in conjunction with a proxy server, enabling seamless access to your resources while developing applications.
Understanding the Scenario
In our case, the requirement emerges from accessing internal resources through a proxy server, located at proxy.company.co.uk:3128. When developing locally with Webpack, you want to access data from endpoints like https://env-01.dev.company.co.uk/v4/ while redirecting the traffic that matches specific patterns through a proxy.
Current Config Issue
Your existing Webpack dev server configuration might look somewhat basic, similar to this:
[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]
While this setup works for direct requests, it lacks the functionality needed to route requests through your corporate proxy server. The simple method often leads to unsatisfactory results, as many developers may have experienced.
The Solution: Utilizing http-proxy-agent
The resolution to this proxying challenge lies in utilizing the http-proxy-agent library in conjunction with your existing Webpack dev server configuration. Below, we break down the steps to achieve this setup effectively.
Step 1: Install the Required Package
First, we need to install the https-proxy-agent package. You can do so using npm or yarn. Open your terminal and run:
[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]
Or, if you’re using yarn:
[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]
Step 2: Update Your Webpack Configuration
Next, you’ll modify your dev server configuration to include the proxy agent. Incorporating the proxy agent into your configuration might look like this:
[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]
Step 3: Important Considerations
Proxy Protocol: When setting the proxy protocol, ensure it aligns with the configuration of your reverse proxy. You might need to specify http even if the target endpoint employs https. This is crucial to avoid connection issues.
Security and Authentication: If your corporate proxy requires authentication, you may need to add username and password in the proxy string.
Conclusion
By employing http-proxy-agent, you can successfully proxy your Webpack dev server requests through a corporate proxy with ease. This setup allows you to maintain focus on your development work without worrying about access issues to essential company resources. With the solution laid out above, you should now be well-equipped to implement the necessary changes and continue your work seamlessly.
Feel free to reach out with any questions or challenges you encounter during this setup. Happy coding!