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If you want to stay safe online, get NordVPN now at a 67% discount. If you want to buy legal items, only pay with cryptocurrency when visiting dark web sites. The dark web is a relatively new concept, at least when you consider the history of the internet as a whole. You can use it to remain anonymous without fear of repercussion if you want to express yourself freely. But this amount of privacy has helped it gain a bad reputation as a forum for those who want to use it for illicit activities.
Introduction to the Dark Web
One of the earliest and most well-known dark web marketplaces was the Silk Road, launched in 2011 by Ross Ulbricht. The site allowed users to buy and sell drugs, weapons, and other illegal goods using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. The Silk Road was shut down by law enforcement in 2013, but other dark web marketplaces have since emerged to take its place. There are different levels of security in the browser that are worth considering. To review security settings, click on the onion logo in the top left and select “Security Settings”, which will bring up a slider offering a choice of the default of standard, or safer and safest. In “safer” mode, JavaScript is disabled on HTTP sites, some fonts are disabled, and all audio and video won’t run automatically, you’ll have to click to play.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines, making it inaccessible through standard web browsing. Accessing this hidden part of the internet requires specific software and knowledge. One of the most popular tools for accessing the dark web is Tor.
What is Tor?
Tor, short for “The Onion Router,” is a network and software designed to allow users to browse the internet anonymously. It achieves this by routing your connection through multiple volunteer-operated servers, thereby masking your IP address.
Steps on How to Access the Dark Web with Tor
Accessing the dark web requires following certain steps to ensure your safety and anonymity. Here’s a detailed guide on how to access the dark web with Tor.
If you wish to invest in highly effective dark web monitoring services to protect your organization from dark web surprises, see what Dark Web ID can do for you. Most users choose to download the Tor browser from the official Tor Project website. The Tor browser is available for Windows, Mac and Linux, and is easy to install. Once you have downloaded and installed the browser you need to connect to the Tor network. The Tor browser uses the Tor network to bounce your traffic through multiple servers around the world, making it virtually impossible for anyone to track your activity. Tor uses onion routing to encrypt and reroute web traffic through Tor’s onion network.
1. Download and Install Tor Browser
Before stepping into the explanation of this topic, you need to have some knowledge about the Deep Web and Tor. Read my complete article to know the importance of the Tor while you surf the Deep Web. Brave’s easy-to-use browser blocks ads by default, making the Web cleaner, faster, and safer for people all over the world.
NinthDecimal is the leading media and technology service provider for the WiFi industry. He was formerly the Chief Financial Officer and a principal shareholder of Apollo Solutions, Inc., which was acquired by CNET Networks. Law enforcement agencies keep an ear to the ground on the dark web looking for stolen data from recent security breaches that might lead to a trail to the perpetrators.
A VPN server adds an extra layer of protection to your browsing data by encrypting it and changing your IP address. This prevents your personal details from being leaked when you’re connected to the Tor network. When you activate Onion Over VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a NordVPN server and then via the Tor network.
The best browser for accessing the dark web safely is the Tor browser. Tor is designed to anonymize your online activity by encrypting your data and bouncing it through a network of volunteer-operated nodes worldwide. This makes it difficult for anyone to track your internet connection or identify your location. Tor browser also blocks plugins, JavaScript, and other potentially harmful elements by default, enhancing your security while browsing the dark web. The Dark Web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and requires specific software to access. It’s essentially a collection of websites and services that are hidden from the public eye, making it a haven for those who want to remain anonymous online.
To get started, you need to download the Tor Browser. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official Tor Project website: torproject.org.
- Select the version compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Download the installation file and run it.
- Follow the prompts to install the Tor Browser on your device.
2. Configure Your Tor Browser
After installation, you need to configure the browser:
- Open the Tor Browser.
- Choose to connect directly or configure settings if you are in a country that censors Tor.
- Interestingly, the surface web only makes up around 4% of the total internet, meaning the internet is a lot more than what you see on the surface.
- Tor’s security measures aren’t foolproof, but they’re pretty good.
- It’s a network of websites that are intentionally hidden and require special software or configurations to access.
- If you value a speedy browsing experience, chances are Tor won’t be your browser of choice.
3. Browse the Dark Web
Once connected to the Tor network, you can begin browsing:
- Use .onion domains to access dark web sites (e.g., http://example.onion).
- Be cautious and avoid sharing personal information.
- Consider using additional privacy tools like a VPN for more security.
4. Stay Safe While Browsing
Maintaining your privacy and security is crucial when accessing the dark web:
- Do not download files or click on suspicious links, as they may contain malware.
- Enable the “NoScript” and “HTTPS Everywhere” add-ons within Tor for added protection.
- Be wary of phishing sites and potential scams.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web with Tor
Q1: Is it illegal to access the dark web?
A1: Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web is against the law.
Q2: Can I use my regular browser to access .onion sites?
A2: No, .onion sites can only be accessed through the Tor Browser.
Q3: Is Tor completely anonymous?
A3: While Tor enhances anonymity, it is not foolproof. Additional precautions are necessary to maintain privacy.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
A4: Report it to the appropriate authorities and avoid engaging with such content.
Conclusion
Learning how to access the dark web with Tor opens up a world of information and resources that are hidden from standard web searches. However, it is essential to navigate this territory with caution, understanding both the risks and responsibilities involved in accessing this unique part of the internet.
