After installation, you can use Tor to access the public internet as well as .onion websites. Knowing how to safely use Tor means using it alongside other cybersecurity tools, so set up a VPN to benefit from end-to-end encryption. And make sure your network’s protected by a firewall and the best antivirus software. In addition, Tor and VPNs take different approaches to rerouting data. A VPN sends your web traffic to a server, which transmits it to the internet.
Only two VPN providers that we know of, AirVPN and BolehVPN, offer this service, although neither of these score highly for speeds. Internet traffic first passes through the Tor Network, and then through the VPN. This means the VPN provider doesn’t see your real IP address and the VPN protects you from those bad exit nodes. This part of the internet is notorious for illegal activities, facilitated by the anonymity it offers. Crimes range from data theft and selling illegal goods for cryptocurrencies to human trafficking and more severe offenses.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t found by normal search engines because the sites located there are not indexed into search engines. While the dark web holds some dark and illegal things, not everything there is illegal. In 2015, approximately 57% of the sites on the dark web hosted illicit material. A more recent study (2019), Into the Web of Profit, shows that 60% of the deep web could harm enterprises and that excludes sites with drug activity.
The Tor Browser interface in Tails OS is similar to other versions, providing a familiar experience for users. Tails OS includes a user-friendly desktop environment that facilitates secure and anonymous browsing. The primary purpose of bridges is to provide an alternative entry point to the Tor network that is not easily identifiable.
You can archive any site you want, or retrieve historical records wherever available. Haystak also offers a premium version that allows advanced search, access to historical content, and email alerts. These domain names are not registered with a central authority but are instead derived from cryptographic keys. Notably, some OLED TVs are doubling as monitor alternatives, and they come equipped with compatible software features like AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync. While Tor is useful for browsing the web anonymously, it is not without problems. Naturally, this has drawn the attention of government organizations like the NSA and FBI, who consider Tor a target of particular interest.
This technology was later released to the public, again to support secure, anonymous communication. The concept of untraceability naturally appealed to people and sites who wanted to stay anonymous online. You can access the dark web from any computer; you just need to download Tor Browser or Brave.
The surface is what most people engage with daily, full of websites indexed by popular search engines. However, beneath the surface lies a more extensive, less visible realm called the Deep Web. The Tor browser’s layered encryption system makes tracking the identity and location of users impossible. People can share files, talk, and blog anonymously in a highly encrypted environment.
Introduction
Antivirus will ensure that any viruses or malware downloaded from the dark web are removed. Google doesn’t index these sites, but other search engines do, including DuckDuckGo, and there are lists — including one run by Muffett — so you can find what you’re looking for. Although content on the dark web is not as ‘indexed’ compared to the one on the clear web, you can still use search engines to find stuff. If the signal goes through the Tor network first, your ISP will be able to see that you are attempting to connect to a Tor node.
The dark web is a part of the internet that requires special software to access. Unlike the surface web, which is indexed by search engines, the dark web is hidden and not easily accessible. Understanding how to surf the dark web can open up a world of information and resources, but it also requires caution and awareness of potential risks.
What You Need to Get Started
Before diving into the dark web, ensure you have the following:
- VPN Service: Protects your identity and encrypts your connection.
- Tor Browser: The most common tool used to access the dark web securely.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a live operating system like Tails for added security.
- Antivirus Software: Helps to protect your device from potential threats.
Steps on How to Surf the Dark Web
Step 1: Install a VPN
- One of the biggest misconceptions is that it’s illegal to get on the dark web.
- Otherwise, I’d be in trouble since the Google Docs page on which I’m writing this article is part of the deep web.
- The U.S. shut down this infamous online black market and prominent member of the dark web in 2013.
- The paywall prevents search engine crawlers from accessing this content.
Before you begin, install a reliable VPN. This will cloak your IP address and enhance your anonymity when accessing the dark web. Choose a reputable VPN service that does not keep logs of user activity.
Step 2: Download and Install the Tor Browser
The Tor Browser is essential for accessing websites on the dark web. To install:
- Go to the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser for your operating system.
- Install the browser while following all prompts.
Step 3: Configure Your Settings
Open the Tor Browser and adjust the privacy settings to maximize security. This can include disabling scripts and using additional security features provided by the browser.
Step 4: Accessing Dark Web Sites
Is There A Dark Web Search Engine?
Dark web sites typically use the .onion domain. You can find directories of .onion sites through various forums or websites on the surface web. Always be cautious and avoid suspicious links.
Step 5: Maintain Your Anonymity
When surfing the dark web, be mindful of your activities:
- Do not share personal information.
- Avoid downloading files unless you are certain about their safety.
- Use secure communication tools for messaging.
Safety Tips for Surfing the Dark Web
To ensure a safe experience on the dark web, keep the following tips in mind:
- Be Skeptical: Not everything on the dark web is trustworthy. Always verify sources before engaging.
- Use Cryptocurrency: When making purchases, use cryptocurrencies for added anonymity.
- Stay Updated: Keep your software updated to protect against vulnerabilities.
FAQs
Q1: Is it illegal to surf the dark web?
A1: Surfing the dark web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities within it is.
Q2: Can I be traced while on the dark web?
A2: While the Tor network provides anonymity, it is still possible to be traced if proper precautions are not taken.
Q3: What kind of information can I find on the dark web?
A3: The dark web hosts a variety of information, including forums on privacy, whistleblower resources, and sometimes illegal content.
Conclusion
Learning how to surf the dark web can reveal hidden corners of the internet, but it is imperative to do so with caution and awareness. By using the right tools and following safety protocols, you can navigate this complex space more securely.
