Content
If you’ve never used APK downloads before, I recommend sticking to the Google Play Store method for now. However, this isn’t the best way, as using the terminal means downloading your VPN through its repository. ExpressVPN is also very easy to use — its apps are intuitive and there’s a quick-connect feature, which automatically connects you to the fastest VPN server for your location. I also like that ExpressVPN offers split-tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which use your local network.
- Ahmia is a search engine for .onion sites — you search for a keyword and Ahmia retrieves relevant results.
- The multi-layered encryption gives anonymity to its users and service providers alike.
- Unlike darknet mode, opennet uses a handful of centralized servers in addition to the decentralized peer-to-peer network.
- Illegal activities damage the dark web’s reputation, even though they’re only a small part of what happens on the dark web.
- Surfshark is also really user-friendly, as its apps are all intuitive and make it very simple to find and connect to servers.
The dark web is a mysterious and often misunderstood part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. While it is often associated with illegal activities, there are legitimate reasons for wanting to access the dark web, such as privacy concerns or accessing information not available on the surface web.
Accountability and Transparency
What is the Dark Web?
While an endpoint security program can identify such threats if they end up on your computer, it’s ideal to avoid them altogether. Accessing the dark web requires a specialized browser called Tor, which enables access to “.onion” sites. However, if you want to stay safe on the dark web, you also need a VPN that provides an additional layer of security. Now that we’ve looked at how to enter the dark web and have gone over some of the gravest risks of doing so, we’ll give you some tips on how to access the dark web safely. Verifying whether dark web sites are safe is challenging, so browsing on the dark web always comes with a higher risk of your device being infected by malware.
The dark web is a part of the internet that requires special software or configurations to access. It is not accessible through traditional browsers like Chrome or Firefox and provides users with anonymity by hiding their IP addresses. The dark web is known for sites that sell drugs, weapons, and stolen data, but it also hosts forums, chat rooms, and marketplaces where users can exchange information and goods.
Can people be tracked on the dark web?
How to Access the Dark Web
Step 1: Download the Necessary Software
To access the dark web, you will need to download a special browser such as Tor (The Onion Router) or I2P (Invisible Internet Project). These browsers route your connection through multiple servers to anonymize your online activity and allow you to access dark web sites.
Step 2: Install and Configure the Software
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form. You can access the dark web on mobile with a dedicated dark web browser app. Install a mobile dark web browsing app — like Tor browser for Android or the Onion browser for iPhone — and enter a [dot] onion URL to start browsing.
After downloading the browser, follow the installation instructions and configure any settings as needed. This may include setting up proxy settings or adjusting security options to enhance your anonymity while browsing the dark web.
Step 3: Find Dark Web URLs
You don’t even need to use Tor Browser, but keep in mind other browsers can still pass identifying information through the network. Alternatively, there’s IPVanish who claim to be the world’s number one VPN for Tor and comes highly recommended, you can save 60% on the annual plan here. The dark web has no shortage of criminal activity, scams, phishing sites, suspicious links, and malware designed to trick newbies. Links posted to the clear web, in particular, are often malicious.
The Cybersecurity Blog is an independent publication launched in April 2022 by Sigmund Brandstaetter. Subscribe today…
Once you have the necessary software installed, you will need to find URLs of dark web sites to visit. These URLs are often long strings of random characters followed by “.onion” for Tor sites or “.i2p” for I2P sites. You can find lists of dark web directories online or join forums and chat rooms to discover new sites.
Step 4: Stay Safe and Anonymous
While browsing the dark web, it is important to prioritize your safety and anonymity. Avoid sharing personal information, using your real name, or engaging in illegal activities. Be cautious of malicious sites and always use encryption tools like VPNs to protect your identity.
By following these steps, you can safely explore the dark web and access its hidden content while protecting your privacy and security.
