What Is The Tor Browser?
How to Access the Dark Web
Google may be synonymous with online search but the internet is much larger than a single search engine. The vast majority of the web lies hidden, unindexed on traditional search engines. To access the so-called dark web, you need to use a dark web search engine. Check out our list of the top dark web search engines and learn how to access the dark web safely.
But of course, these benefits can be easily extended to those that want to act outside of the constraints of laws in other explicitly illegal ways. At the dark end of the web, you’ll find the more hazardous content and activity. Tor websites are located at this far end of the deep web, which are deemed the “dark web” and are only accessible by an anonymous browser.
The dark web is a section of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. To access it safely and securely, several precautions and tools are necessary. Understanding these steps will help ensure a safer browsing experience.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Access the Dark Web
However, it’s important to remember there are tonnes of legitimate reasons to use Tor to explore the dark web too. This type of multi-layer encryption means each node, or server in the chain, knows which server your data came from and which server to send it to next. Get leading antivirus, fast VPN, real-time safe browsing and instant ad blocking – all in one app. Click here to learn How you can protect yourself from identity theft. Should any of your personal information ever be exposed in a data breach, spyware or phishing attack, there’s a good chance it will be taken to the dark web so a buyer can be found.
This is something called Tor over VPN, where the VPN will mask the fact that you’re using Tor once you connect to a VPN server. Now that you know that using a VPN is mandatory for safe and secure dark web access, let’s see how to combine it with Tor to achieve the result you want. One of the biggest misconceptions is that it’s illegal to get on the dark web. Much like the surface web, the dark web is filled with different sites, out of which, only a small portion is illegal – much like the surface web, once again. This, of course, isn’t entirely true, as you can find some educational and useful – above all LEGAL – sites that you can’t find on the surface web.
Because the Tor network is run by volunteers, there’s also little in the way of accountability. Bad actors can compromise nodes, with exit nodes being of particular concern. Surfshark is a low-cost provider that ticks all the boxes for use with the dark web.
Others may act in ways that are illegal for the protection and safety of others. Let’s unpack both of these concepts in terms of the “dark web browser” and the websites themselves. As such, the dark web has attracted many parties who would otherwise be endangered by revealing their identities online. Abuse and persecution victims, whistleblowers, and political dissidents have been frequent users of these hidden sites.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to access the dark web:
- Download and Install Tor Browser
- Visit the official Tor Project website to download the Tor Browser.
- Install the browser just like any other software, ensuring it’s from the official source to avoid malware.
First of all, you’ll need a VPN – now you know – it provides additional privacy and security online by changing your IP address. We selected a random country to connect through it, and the VPN shows we are in. Nathan is an internationally trained journalist with a special interest in the prevention of cybercrime. For VPNOverview he conducts research in cybersecurity, internet censorship, and online privacy.
- Secure Your Device
- Install a reliable VPN to add an extra layer of security and privacy.
- Ensure that your antivirus software is updated to protect against potential threats.
- Open Tor and Configure Settings
- Launch the Tor Browser after installation.
- Configure the security settings. Higher security settings can disable certain functionalities to enhance your safety.
- Explore .onion Sites
- Only access .onion domains, which are specifically designed to be accessed through the Tor network.
- Use reliable resources or directories to find .onion sites, as navigating the dark web can be risky.
- Stay Anonymous
- Do not reveal personal information while browsing.
- Consider using pseudonyms or fake usernames when necessary.
Important Precautions
Taking the right precautions is essential when accessing the dark web to avoid legal issues or security threats.
- Use a VPN: This can hide your IP address and location.
- Keep Your Location Private: Avoid enabling location settings on your device.
- Be Cautious of Links: Do not click on suspicious links; they can lead to harmful sites or scams.
- Don’t Download Files: Downloading files can expose you to malware.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
Q: Is accessing the dark web illegal?
- Don’t get Tor confused with a VPN though, which uses tunnels to protect your data from lurkers.
- “So, if all enforcement goes after one server, they’ve got servers all over the world that automatically fill in and replace when those servers are taken down,” he says.
- You can access the dark web from any computer; you just need to download Tor Browser or Brave.
- Its server network includes dedicated nodes set up to reroute internet traffic through the Tor network.
A: Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities that occur on it can be against the law.
Q: Do I need special software to access the dark web?
A: Yes, the Tor Browser is specifically designed to access the dark web safely.
Q: Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
A: While using tools like Tor and a VPN provides privacy, no method is completely foolproof, so caution is always advised.
Q: What types of content can I find on the dark web?
A: The dark web hosts a variety of content, from forums and whistleblowing platforms to illegal goods and services.
Conclusion
Learning how to access the dark web responsibly requires understanding the necessary tools and precautions. By following the steps outlined above, individuals can explore this hidden part of the internet while prioritizing their safety and privacy.
