Which Is Better — Tor Over VPN Or VPN Over Tor?
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It hosts a variety of illicit activities, but it also provides valuable privacy and security for users seeking to avoid censorship and surveillance.
First, you should know that very few providers support VPN over Tor. And if they do, you can’t just go for it because it requires additional setup which requires help from the provider. Since you now know how to access the dark web with Tor and VPN, I think I should clarify two very popular methods of doing so. Namely, you can first connect to a VPN and then connect to Tor – or vice versa. The important thing is that you download it from the official site or Google Play (Android)/Apple Store (Mac).
A favorite of journalists and their anonymous sources, SecureDrop makes it easy to share confidential information without revealing your identity. Many news publications, like the ones listed above, have a SecureDrop on their .onion sites. The internet’s favorite alternative to Google made a name for itself by not logging your search activity yet still providing decent results. This focus on privacy makes it the Tor Browser’s default search engine and one of the best onion search engines. Search engines on the dark web are a bit of a contradiction because dark web sites by definition are not indexed by traditional search engines. However, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web is not.
Data is the most common commodity sold on the dark web, according to Nirmit Biswas, senior research analyst at Market Research Future. “Account credentials, credit card information, addresses and social security numbers have all been hacked. Someone might not even realize they’ve been hacked, yet their company and employee information could be sold,” Biswas says. However, one of the challenges for law enforcement in taking out these groups is that they rotate their infrastructure. A recent law enforcement crackdown saw a coordinated takedown of many, many servers because if they miss one single server, the whole thing stays running, says Owenson. “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.
This means that search engine crawlers can read up the pages, understand what the content is, and return those pages when relevant search queries are made to the search engine. On the other hand, dark net can’t be indexed, and usually uses uncommon communication protocols, encryption, etc. to achieve that result. Here’s where overlay networks get relevant, all of dark net is an overlay network over the internet. Hence, while the Darknet and clear-net reside on the internet, Darknet still manages to be structurally different from the rest of the internet. For additional protection, enterprises should monitor the dark web to identify indicators of dark web compromise, such as database dumps or the posting of personal or financial information.
To understand how to access the dark web, it’s essential to grasp a few fundamental concepts and take appropriate precautions. This article will provide a comprehensive guide.
The dark web is a common gathering place for hackers and other cybercriminals, which can make browsing the dark web a risky activity. Visitors to the dark web should exercise extreme caution when downloading files, as they may infect your devices with viruses, malware, trojans, ransomware or other malicious files. At a minimum, users should ensure that their cybersecurity defenses are activated and up-to-date. Once a user installs a dark web browser on a device, it functions like a regular browser. That said, it can be difficult for users to find the material they are looking for on the dark web. Addresses tend to be a mix of random numbers and letters, making them challenging to remember or access manually.
Prerequisites for Accessing the Dark Web
That’s where the “dark” part comes in — accessing the dark web requires the use of specific software that keeps you anonymous. The dark web is a small part of the much larger “deep web,” which also isn’t indexed by search engines — but authorized users can access it using common web browsers. The deep web is made up of email platforms, workplace portals, subscription services, and banking websites — basically anything that requires a login. The “surface web,” on the other hand, is the publicly available part of the internet that search engines index. Connect to a VPN first, then use Tor in a Tor-over-VPN setup for extra security.
Before you dive into the dark web, consider the following prerequisites:
The Deep Web just refers to web data that isn’t indexed by a search engine like Google. Unlike the Dark Web, which is the hidden corner of the internet often used to conduct illicit or anonymous activity, anyone can get to the Deep Web safely using a regular browser. We’ll show you how to find information on the Deep Web, as well as how to safely dip your toes into the Dark Web. Tor (“The Onion Routing” project) network browser provides users access to visit websites with the “. This browser is a service originally developed in the latter part of the 1990s by the United States Naval Research Laboratory.
- As the Dark Web operates on the principle of anonymity, it is essential to take certain precautions to ensure your online activities remain untraceable.
- While many search engines steer clear of the dark web’s seedier elements, Kilos embraces it and doesn’t filter search results.
- If you want to be extra safe, routing your connection through a VPN and then accessing the dark web using the Tor browser provides more security than Tor alone.
- No one can stop zero-day malware from entering your network, but Xcitium can prevent if from causing any damage.
- This makes it difficult for anyone to track your internet connection or identify your location.
- Knowledge and Awareness: Familiarize yourself with the terms and risks associated with the dark web.
- Security Software: Install reliable antivirus and anti-malware software to safeguard your device.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A VPN adds an extra layer of security and anonymity.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to access the dark web safely:
- Download and Install Tor Browser:
The most common method to access the dark web is through the Tor (The Onion Router) browser. Visit the official Tor Project website to download and install it.
- Configure Privacy Settings:
Adjust the privacy settings in the Tor browser to enhance your security while browsing.
- Connect to the Tor Network:
Open the Tor browser and click on “Connect” to join the Tor network.
- Use Dark Web Directories:
Since the dark web isn’t indexed by search engines, use directories and forums to find .onion websites. Websites like “The Hidden Wiki” can be helpful.
- Practice Safe Browsing:
Always be cautious about sharing personal information and avoid engaging in illegal activities.
Safety Precautions While Browsing the Dark Web
Keeping safe while exploring the dark web is crucial. Here are essential precautions:
- Remain Anonymous: Never share personal information or real names.
- Do Not Download Files: Avoid downloading files from unknown sources to prevent malware infections.
- Use Cryptocurrency: If you engage in transactions, use cryptocurrencies for added anonymity.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
What is the dark web?
The dark web is a section of the internet that requires special software for access and is often associated with illegal activities. It is distinct from the surface web and deep web.
Is accessing the dark web legal?
Accessing the dark web is legal in most countries, but engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is not.
What tools do I need to access the dark web?
The primary tool required is the Tor browser. A good VPN is also recommended for enhanced security and privacy.
Can I get hacked on the dark web?
Yes, there are risks of hacking and scams on the dark web. Always practice safe browsing habits to mitigate these risks.
In summary, learning how to access the dark web requires careful planning and a commitment to security. By following the steps and precautions outlined above, users can explore this hidden part of the internet while minimizing risk.
