Does Chrome use a proxy?

I'm curious to know, does the popular web browser Chrome utilize a proxy server by default, or does it connect directly to the internet? If it does use a proxy, can you explain the reasons behind this decision and how it might impact my browsing experience? On the other hand, if Chrome doesn't use a proxy, what steps can I take to configure one if I need it for specific purposes, such as accessing geo-restricted content or enhancing my privacy?