How Do I Access The Dark Web?
Understanding the Dark Web
Once you’ve connected, we also explain how to navigate the dark web safely later on in this guide. To access the dark web on a mobile device, we recommend using a VPN with the Tor Browser on Android, or using the Onion Browser and Orbot on iOS. To protect yourself on the dark web, be sure to use a secure connection and exercise caution when interacting with anyone on the platform.
The dark web is often misunderstood, portrayed as a mysterious and dangerous part of the internet. However, it also serves as a platform for privacy-focused communication and activism, especially in regions where freedom of speech is suppressed.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web refers to a section of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access. The most common software used to access the dark web is Tor (The Onion Router), which is designed to ensure anonymity and privacy.
- The company’s website provides detailed instructions on how to use it.
- Once you have the necessary tools, you can visit dark web sites by adding their domains to the Tor browser’s address bar.
- He’s tested hundreds of VPN services and his research has featured on the BBC, The New York Times and more.
- Proceed with caution and make informed decisions, ensuring you understand the potential consequences of your actions.
- Many of the websites hosted on the Dark Web are created by scammers and criminals intending to steal your personal information or extort money from you.
- Generally, people who want to report a company or the government for illegal acts use Tor to get information out to the public while staying anonymous.
We like this provider because it offers special Onion Over VPN servers that allow you to go on the dark web instantly, as long as you have Tor installed. NordVPN even has Threat Protection, a bundle of features containing antivirus, anti-malware, and an ad blocker. Getting on the darknet requires no special knowledge, yet, knowing how to do it SAFELY is crucial.
How to Get on the Dark Web
Because of that, intelligence gathering also tends to require personal participation in these chat forums to get the real scoop. Federal agencies often track anonymous chat participants to glean clues for investigations or piece together a suspect’s identity. Surfshark also offers a complete security package if you choose to go with Surfshark One or One+ subscriptions. Both of them include antivirus, webcam protection, and real-time data breach alerts on top of the Surfshark VPN package.
Accessing the dark web entails several steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get on the dark web securely.
Step 1: Prepare Your Device
Before you access the dark web, make sure your device is secure:
Chainalysis says that $790 million worth of cryptocurrencies were used to shop in darknet markets during 2019. While some studies have claimed that illegal Bitcoin activity is as high as 44%. Anyone can access the dark web, and it’s not that complicated to do so. Just remember, if you want to explore the dark web, be very careful.
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network adds an extra layer of security and anonymity.
- Update software: Ensure your operating system and any applications are up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.
- Use Antivirus Software: This helps safeguard your device from malicious software.
This is especially true, they say, to help law enforcement track criminal organizations and illicit activities. You can choose 256-bit for maximum protection or 128-bit if you want a faster connection. There are multiple protocol options available and protection against IPv6 leaks and DNS leaks. ExpressVPN protects your internet traffic using 256-bit AES channel strong encryption together with 4096-bit DHE-RSA keys and a SHA512 hash authentication. The company has an independently audited no-logs policy and its comprehensive server network is RAM-only. It comes with DNS leak protection, and works well if you’re aiming to improve online privacy.
Opennet connections are easier to use, but darknet connections provide more security against attackers on the network. But remember, it’s essential to take all the necessary and important security steps before entering such sites on the dark web. As mentioned before, your ISP and government institutions are not able to see what sites you visit on the Tor network, but they can probably see that you use Tor. Since you’ve now installed the Tor browser, you can safely browse dark web websites and other (previously) hidden websites. From this point onwards, you can enjoy complete anonymity and security while being able to access “.onion” websites and other dark web browser domains.
Imagine the layers of an onion, but instead of vegetable layers, you have layers of encryption. When you use Tor, your data is bundled into packets and then wrapped in multiple layers of encryption. It may seem like a no-brainer, but many people neglect this simple yet critical step. Regular updates often contain security patches that fix vulnerabilities in your system, making it harder for cybercriminals to exploit. Whether it’s your operating system, your browser, or the Tor software you’ll be using to access the Dark Web, make sure everything is up to date.
Step 2: Download Tor Browser
The next step is to download the Tor Browser:
- Visit the official Tor Project website to ensure you are downloading the legitimate version.
- Select the appropriate version for your operating system.
- Follow the installation instructions to complete the setup.
Step 3: Configure Tor Browser
Once the Tor browser is installed:
- Open the browser and connect to the Tor network.
- You may be prompted to adjust your security settings. It is recommended to set it to the highest level to avoid threats.
Step 4: Accessing .onion Sites
Websites on the dark web typically use a .onion domain. To find these sites:
- Browse directories specifically for .onion sites, such as The Hidden Wiki.
- Be cautious. Not all .onion sites are safe. Look for reviews or gather information from credible forums.
Step 5: Maintain Privacy
While on the dark web, keep your personal information private:
- Do not share personal information, including your name or location.
- Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources to minimize the risk of malware.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Dark Web illegal?
The dark web itself is not illegal; however, many activities conducted on it may be unlawful. Users should exercise caution and be aware of the legal implications of their actions.
Can I be tracked on the Dark Web?
While Tor provides anonymity, it’s not foolproof. Various entities, including law enforcement, can potentially track users. Using a VPN and following security best practices helps reduce this risk.
What do people use the Dark Web for?
People access the dark web for various reasons, including:
- Privacy-minded communication: Activists and journalists may use it to communicate without revealing their identity.
- Access to restricted content: Certain information may be restricted or censored in specific countries.
- Illegal activities: Unfortunately, some engage in illegal trade and exchanges.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to get on the dark web is vital for anyone interested in exploring its depths. Always prioritize safety, privacy, and legality while navigating this unique part of the internet.
