Clash Proxy Modes Explained

When you first start using Clash, you'll see three mode buttons on the main interface: Global, Rule, and Direct. Which one should you choose? This article will help you understand.

Quick Summary

Use "Rule Mode" for daily use. Global is for special situations, Direct is basically turning off proxy.

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The Three Modes

🌐 Global Mode

What is Global Mode?

All traffic goes through the proxy server, regardless of whether it's a domestic or foreign website.

When to Use:

• Testing if your proxy is working at all
• When accessing a site that's incorrectly categorized as "domestic"
• Temporarily bypassing all rules

Problems with Global Mode:

• Domestic websites become slower (unnecessary routing)
• Wastes proxy traffic
• Some domestic services may not work properly

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📋 Rule Mode - Recommended

What is Rule Mode?

Automatically determines routing based on preset rules: foreign sites go through proxy, domestic sites connect directly. This is Clash's most powerful feature.

How Does Routing Work?

Your configuration file contains a rule list, for example:

• Accessing google.com → Go through proxy
• Accessing baidu.com → Direct connection
• Accessing netflix.com → Go through proxy

When to Use:

• Daily use (recommended)
• Best balance of speed and functionality

Why is Rule Mode Recommended?

• Smart routing saves proxy traffic
• Domestic sites remain fast
• Only traffic that needs proxy uses proxy

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🔌 Direct Mode

What is Direct Mode?

All traffic bypasses proxy, equivalent to disabling Clash's proxy function (but Clash is still running).

When to Use:

• Temporarily disabling proxy
• Troubleshooting network issues
• Testing if issues are proxy-related

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Visual Comparison

┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                    Your Device                       │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
                         │
          ┌──────────────┼──────────────┐
          │              │              │
          ▼              ▼              ▼
     ┌─────────┐   ┌──────────┐   ┌──────────┐
     │ Global  │   │   Rule   │   │  Direct  │
     │  Mode   │   │   Mode   │   │   Mode   │
     └────┬────┘   └────┬─────┘   └────┬─────┘
          │              │              │
          ▼              ▼              ▼
    All → Proxy    Smart Route    All → Direct

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FAQ

Q: Can I switch modes while connected?

Yes, you can switch modes at any time. The change takes effect immediately.

Q: Which mode uses the least proxy traffic?

Rule Mode, because only foreign sites use the proxy.

Q: Why does Global Mode make domestic sites slow?

Because all traffic is routed through your proxy server (usually overseas), adding latency to domestic requests.

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Related Tutorials

• Troubleshooting Guide - Common issues
• How to Choose a Provider - Finding good providers