As a result, there are plenty of reasons why the average person might choose never to access the dark web. A part of the Internet that isn’t accessible through search engines at all, and also much more. On the Darknet no one knows your identity and no one knows who is behind any website. The deep web is presumably 100 times larger than what is known as the “surface web” which is what you and I surf through search engines like Google, Yahoo! and Bing. Most of the deep web isn’t evil in any way, it’s just content blocked from search engines for security reasons. Yes, in the final section, we provide a conclusion to this guide on accessing the dark web using the Tor Browser.
To look at it in a different way, it makes up between 90% and 95% of the internet. Because of its anonymity, the dark web is filled with illegal services and is used by numerous criminal groups, including ransomware gangs. It is also used by whistle-blowers, journalists, and other individuals who are not involved in illegal activity but need to protect their communications and identities. Through the dark web, users in places of high censorship can also access information and news. This is how anonymity is built and data is protected in the Tor browser system. There are other Dark Web access systems that use different mechanisms, but they’re all built to provide strong anonymity and security.
In this case, you’ll get unlimited bandwidth, impenetrable security, a no-logs policy, and blazing-fast speeds. With these benefits, gaining access to the dark web will be a breeze, which cannot be said about free providers that I simply can’t recommend. This will make the entire browsing experience sluggish, which will surely strike a nerve. Thus, if you want to know how to get on the dark web safely, using a premium provider is my recommended choice. Additionally, the entry node itself will be able to see your IP address and the VPN can also see your traffic.
Not your age, not what country you’re in, not even your gender identity. If you do need to create or use any dark web accounts, use dark web email addresses. If you follow the previous tip’s recommendations, you aren’t broadcasting your screen resolution or typing patterns, either. You already know how to properly set up and configure your Tor Browser for browsing the dark web.
Don’t forget that it supports ALL systems, so you can install it wherever you like. But since Tor only works on Windows, Linux, Android, and Mac, I suggest choosing one of these platforms. The first step is to get a quality VPN and for this case, I recommend ExpressVPN. This provider fully supports Tor over VPN, which means that it can be used to get on the dark web. Beware that this is NOT a free VPN and we intentionally avoid free providers due to security issues. The first one is that, to get to the dark web, you need to use Tor.
Understanding the Dark Web
The Onion Browser is not the best or safest way to use the Tor overlay network for browsing the dark web. Apple has strict rules for all iOS web browsing apps to follow, including overlay networks like Tor. So here are a list of some search directories and pages that will send you off scurrying down the Dark Web rabbithole.
Approximately 90% of all websites are on the deep web, and many are used by entities such as corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits. What’s known as the dark web exists within the deep web; it’s an area of the internet that is only accessible by users who have a Tor browser installed. In general, most average internet users will never need to access content on the dark web, although it is perfectly legal to use Tor.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines. It requires special software to access, enabling users to maintain their privacy and anonymity.
Download AVG Secure VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your privacy wherever you go on the web. The Silk Road — one of the most famous dark web marketplaces — was known for these types of illegal items. Even though the website was shut down in 2013, the Silk Road’s founder, Ross Ulbricht, will spend the rest of his life in prison.
This article will guide you on how to get to the dark web safely and responsibly.
Important Considerations Before Accessing the Dark Web
Before you ask how to get to the dark web, it’s crucial to understand the implications:
- Accessing the dark web can expose you to illegal activities.
- Ensure your security measures are in place to protect your identity.
- Be aware that not all content on the dark web is illegal, but it can be risky.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get to the dark web:
- Download a Special Browser: You need the Tor Browser. This browser allows you to access .onion sites, which are exclusive to the dark web.
- Install the Tor Browser: Follow the installation instructions provided on the Tor Project’s official website. Ensure that you download it directly from the source to avoid malware.
- Improve Your Security: Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) in conjunction with the Tor Browser for an added layer of security.
- Connect to Tor: Open the Tor Browser and click on “Connect”. This process will take a few moments as it establishes a connection through multiple servers.
- Explore Safely: Use search engines dedicated to the dark web, such as Ahmia or DarkSearch, to find .onion sites.
Tor Links
Safety Tips While on the Dark Web
While navigating the dark web, it is important to adhere to these safety tips:
- Never share personal information.
- Be cautious of links; they may lead to malicious sites.
- Use encrypted communication tools if necessary.
- Regularly update your security software.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the dark web illegal?
- For this guide, we’ll use the Tor Browser as an example, but any other web browser (like Brave) that supports the Tor protocol will work just as well.
- After downloading the browser, it will show up as an application on your computer, which opens in a new window when you launch it.
- Setting up I2P requires more configuration on the user’s part than Tor.
- Millions of customers’ personal data, including names, addresses, bank account and credit card account information, and many other forms of sensitive data.
The dark web itself is not illegal; however, many activities conducted there can be criminal. Accessing certain sites can lead to illegal consequences.
2. Can you get caught while browsing the dark web?
Yes, there is a risk of being monitored. It is crucial to use proper security measures, like a VPN and the Tor Browser, to reduce the chances of being detected.
3. What can you find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including forums, market sites, privacy-focused services, and information about hacking.
4. Are there legal uses for the dark web?
Yes, many individuals use the dark web for legitimate purposes, such as political activism, journalism in oppressive regimes, and privacy-focused communication.
Finally, remember that while accessing the dark web can be intriguing, it comes with significant risks and responsibilities. Always prioritize your safety and legality when exploring this hidden side of the internet.
