This article explains how to import nodes into sing-box and covers how your IP, DNS, and browser environment relate to one another after connecting. It’s for users who have just installed sing-box and obtained a free node or subscription link but aren’t sure how to import it or check whether it’s working.
1. Get a node or subscription link ready
sing-box is a client core, so you need a working node configuration to connect. There are two common sources: a subscription link or an individual node share link, such as VLESS, VMess, Trojan, or Shadowsocks. This site collects some free nodes for testing, but free nodes may stop working or become congested, so it’s a good idea to have a few backups.
Before importing, make sure you’re using a client that supports sing-box, such as SFA on Android, an iOS client with the sing-box core, or a desktop GUI client. The interface varies slightly between clients, but the process is much the same.
2. Common ways to import nodes into sing-box
- Open the sing-box client and go to the “Configuration,” “Profiles,” or “Subscriptions” page.
- If you have a subscription link, select “Add Subscription” or “Import from URL,” paste the link, and save it.
- If you have an individual node link, select “Import from Clipboard” or “Add Node” and let the client recognize it automatically.
- After importing, tap “Update Subscription” or “Refresh” and wait for the node list to appear.
- Select a node, return to the home screen, and tap the start or connect button.
If the import fails, first check that the link is complete and that you haven’t copied any extra spaces. Also check whether the subscription URL requires you to sign in through a browser. Some clients may not support certain parameters, which can also result in a successful import but a failed connection.
3. How to check whether your IP has changed
Once connected, the easiest way to check is to visit an IP lookup site and see whether your exit IP and location have changed. If it still shows your local ISP’s IP, the proxy may not be routing your traffic, or the app you’re using may not be going through the proxy.
Many sing-box clients support “Global,” “Rules,” and “Direct” modes. When troubleshooting, beginners should switch to Global mode first to check that the node works, then switch back to Rules mode. In Rules mode, domestic websites may connect directly while international sites use the proxy, so an unchanged IP on some pages doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong.
4. Why DNS and your browser environment matter too
Sometimes your IP has changed, but websites still won’t load. This may be related to DNS. DNS translates domain names into IP addresses. If you’re still using your local ISP’s DNS, you may encounter DNS poisoning, slow lookups, or unexpected location detection. In the client, consider enabling built-in DNS, remote DNS, or an anti-leak option. These features may be labeled “DNS over HTTPS,” “FakeIP,” or “Prevent DNS Leaks.”
Your browser environment can also affect test results. Websites may use cookies, language, time zone, WebRTC, and other signals to determine your actual environment. For basic connectivity testing, normal mode is fine. To reduce environmental interference, clear your cookies, check for conflicts with browser proxy extensions, and make sure WebRTC isn’t exposing your local IP.
5. Troubleshoot connection failures in this order
- Try a different node to rule out a problem with the current one.
- Make sure your system clock is correct. An incorrect time can cause TLS handshakes to fail.
- Turn off other VPNs, proxy extensions, or accelerators to avoid port conflicts.
- Try switching from Rules mode to Global mode.
- Update the subscription, restart the client, and reconnect.
In short, the key to importing nodes into sing-box is to use a complete link, a compatible client, an up-to-date subscription, and the right mode. After connecting, don’t rely only on the “Connected” status—also check whether your IP, DNS, and browser environment match your expectations. That’s how you can tell whether your proxy is really working.