If you can find a page with a standard search engine (Google or DuckDuckGo) and visit it with a standard web browser (Chrome or Firefox), it is part of the Surface web. Ultimately, the Dark web has the allure of a place that most people can’t visit. Since you are reading this, we suspect that you feel the pull of this place and want to take a look for yourself. But you’ll have to be careful not to wander into something you don’t want to see. In 2015, the founder of a website called the Silk Road was sentenced to life in prison. The difference is the order in which your internet traffic travels.
Understanding the Dark Web
Much of the Deep web consists of databases and intranets that are not accessible without some sort of permission. Most of the rest consists of websites that cannot be reached using standard internet protocols. Those hard-to-access websites are collectively known as the Dark web. You can access the Dark web safely, but just diving in blindly is a bad idea.
There are numerous directories that host .onion links and websites, but you should always exercise caution. 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. When you envision the dark web, it may conjure up images of hackers trading stolen Social Security numbers or drug dealers advertising their products online—and that’s not completely wrong.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It is often associated with illegal activities but also serves as a platform for privacy-focused communication. If you’re curious about how to navigate this part of the internet, follow the steps outlined below.
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. Addresses also change frequently due to the transient nature of many dark web actors. Finally, because the dark web routes all traffic through a series of proxy servers, which are operated by thousands of volunteers around the world, the search process is typically very slow. To access the dark web, users need a special browser, the most common of which is Tor, short for “The Onion Routing” project, which launched in 2002 and serves millions of users. Another is I2P (Invisible Internet Project), which specializes in the anonymous hosting of websites on the dark web.
- Use a strong password that can’t be easily guessed or hacked, or consider using a password manager to create complex passwords for you.
- The best way to prevent your browsing activity from alerting authorities is to avoid sites with illegal activity altogether — another reason to only visit sites you’ve researched and trust.
- Even when using security measures and your own common sense, accessing deep web content still poses a risk.
- There are a range of tools and services that scan the dark web looking for organizational threats and vulnerabilities but it’s a constantly moving target.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
Before you learn how to get to the dark web, ensure that you have the following essentials ready:
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): This adds a layer of security by masking your IP address.
- Tor Browser: A specialized browser designed to access the dark web.
- Safe Practices: Awareness of cybersecurity to protect your information.
Generally speaking, most websites are legal and they’re safe to use. But if we’re talking about forums, marketplaces, and other “social” websites and platforms, the darknet can quickly turn into an unsafe place. Basically, it’s an intentionally hidden part of the internet that can only be accessed using Tor. Tor stands for The Onion Router and it’s a browser based on Firefox, specifically made with accessing “.onion” websites in mind. Learn more about our various degree and certification programs today by requesting more information. To access a dark web website, you’ll need the Tor browser, as .onion sites are not accessible with a regular browser.
The browser is open-source software that is free to download and enables anonymous communication online. Users’ internet traffic is sent through an encrypted network of volunteer-maintained relays around the world. This makes it very difficult to trace the original users’ identity. Tor’s anonymity function is used by everyone from human rights workers and journalists through to drug and arms dealers. While the surface and deep web can be accessed this way, the dark web requires special software.
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing the Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely and effectively access the dark web:
- Download a VPN: Choose a reliable VPN service that offers strong encryption.
- Install the VPN: Follow the instructions provided by the VPN service to correctly set it up.
- Connect to the VPN: Launch the VPN application and connect to a server of your choice.
- Download Tor Browser: Go to the official Tor Project website to download the Tor Browser.
- Install Tor Browser: Follow the installation prompts to set up the browser on your device.
- Launch Tor Browser: Open the browser and connect to the Tor network.
- Navigate the Dark Web: Use .onion sites and directories to find content on the dark web.
Words Of Caution When Using Dark Web Sites
Important Security Practices
When exploring the dark web, prioritize your safety. Here are some essential tips:
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Always keep your identity and personal data private.
- Be Wary of Downloads: Files can contain malware; only download from trusted sources.
- Use Anonymous Payment Methods: If necessary, consider using cryptocurrencies instead of credit cards.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities conducted there may be illegal. Always research local laws.
How can I find .onion websites?
There are several directories and forums where users share links to .onion sites, but exercise caution as some may lead to illegal or harmful content.
Can my data be tracked on the dark web?
While the Tor network provides anonymity, it’s still possible to be tracked. Use a VPN and practice safe browsing to improve your security.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
If you stumble upon illegal content, it’s best to exit the website immediately and report it to authorities if necessary.
Conclusion
Navigating the dark web requires caution and awareness. By following the steps above and implementing security measures, you can explore this hidden part of the internet more safely. Always remember to remain vigilant and prioritize your privacy.