I use Chrome with Windows 8.1 having internet problems

[#1]

I keep getting the message "Cannot connect with Proxy server", then the computer locks. I have got round this by opting out of proxy server, is this advisable? If not how can I fix the problem please?

[#2]

You have (or had) a computer virus that corrupted your settings by inserting a proxy server to control your internet usage.  First get fid of the virus then see if problems with Chrome remain.  I recommend Malwarebytes .  This link should invoke a download https://www.malwarebytes.org/mwb-download/ ;

[#3]

could have been a dodgy chrome extension rather than a virus.

[#4]

:)Having followed all the grand help here, many thanks, it seems much better. The only regular problem is when attempting to open super links in Chrome I get the error message "Google Chrome is unresponsive" any ideas as to what I may have done, or should do to fix it. It is annoying to have to copy and paste to get the link opened.

[#5]

Check Chrome is up to date.  Click the three lines at the top right ('Customise and Control") then click About.