Content
VPNs are also used for accessing geo-locked content hosted by streaming services. The best VPN options are paid-for and subscription-based, as many free options will either throttle your speed or collect your data. No longer restricted to dial-up, many of us now consider access to a stable high-speed internet connection a critical element of our daily lives. We pay our bills online, check our bank statements, communicate via email, find information, and maintain a presence on social media. ZDNET’s recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping.
- Onion services (formerly known as Tor Hidden Services) are the hidden services that you can reach through the Tor network and a compatible web browser.
- Most schools have a comprehensive website providing information about the school’s history, campus location, student body, available programs of study, extracurricular activities, and more.
- With a particular interest in privacy, data, and security, Rosalyn has covered social media, AI, IoT, deepfakes, marketing tech, the cloud, enterprise tech, consumer tech, and digital transformation.
- And while plenty of cybercrime does take place, the dark web is used legally as well.
Understanding the Darknet
You can tap one of the links to find out exactly where your data is coming from. One of the interesting catches of the Tor browser is that unless you have the exact name of the website and correct browser configuration, you will not be able to access anything on it. Tor’s search engine does not act like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Just like the ocean hides its deepest, darkest secrets underwater, similarly the internet hides its notorious secrets in the Dark Web. On an everyday basis, the Dark Web generates US$1,000.00 in transactions.
The Dark Web can be a treacherous place, and precaution is the name of the game. Signup for our weekly newsletter to get the latest news, updates and amazing offers delivered directly in your inbox. Download the Tor browser from Google Play and install the app on your mobile phone. Similarly, stolen bank details are also easily available on the darknet. If you are interested in gaining knowledge on the cybersecurity domain, check out this Ethical Hacking Certification from Intellipaat.
When most people go online, they do so via a computer or device that has an IP (Internet Protocol) address – a unique online identity. More seriously, free VPNs – particularly those offered as standalone services – sometimes make money by selling your data to third parties. These aren’t the type of products you should use to keep you safe while exploring the dark web. PrivateVPN allows torrenting and has dedicated servers in its home country for just that purpose. Torrenters can also make use of port forwarding, which allows connections to more peers in a torrent swarm. The former protects traffic using AES-256-GCM encryption and 4096-bit RSA certificates with SHA512 for server authentication.
Aleksander Hougen, the managing editor at Cloudwards, is an expert in cloud storage and related technologies. His expertise extends to cloud backup solutions, secure data storage and the broader spectrum of cloud services. His educational background enables him to demystify technical topics, making them accessible and empowering for technology enthusiasts. A Hidden Service (also known as an ‘onion service’) is one where not only the user, but also the website itself, have their anonymity protected by Tor. This means that the IP address of the site cannot be identified, meaning that information about its host, location or content is hidden. Hidden Services are sometimes called “onion addresses” because the website name often ends .onion.
It is a great tool for finding dark web pages and staying safe while doing it. Remember that a VPN is not a guarantee of absolute anonymity and security. It’s still important to follow other safety precautions when accessing the dark web, such as using the Tor browser and avoiding suspicious links and downloads.
No one will even know you are using TOR, let alone browsing for darknet markets. For most activities, the proxy server is fine even though it’ll add a bit of latency to your connection. Your anonymity would not be entirely protected, however, if your proxy service was hit with a subpoena for your IP information.
The darknet is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines, providing a high level of anonymity for users. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses, such as protecting privacy and circumventing censorship.
How Do I Access the Darknet?
Understanding onion
To safely and securely access the darknet, you must follow specific steps and ensure you take precautions to protect your anonymity. Here’s a detailed guide:
1. Get the Right Software
The primary way to access the darknet is through specialized browsers. The most common is:
- Tor Browser – Designed specifically for accessing .onion websites, it routes your connection through multiple servers for anonymity.
2. Download and Install the Tor Browser
To get started:
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser appropriate for your operating system.
- Install the browser, following the on-screen instructions.
3. Use a VPN
For added security, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) in conjunction with the Tor Browser.
- A VPN adds an additional layer of encryption to your internet traffic.
- It helps mask your IP address from your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
4. Configure Your Tor Settings
Once installed, launch the Tor Browser and:
- Adjust the security settings to your preferred level (Standard, Safer, or Safest).
- Only use .onion links to ensure you’re on the darknet.
5. Stay Safe and Anonymous
To maintain your privacy while browsing:
- Don’t provide personal information.
- Use encrypted messaging apps for communication.
- Be cautious about the sites you visit and the files you download.
Common FAQs About Accessing the Darknet
What is the difference between the deep web and the darknet?
The deep web includes all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines, whereas the darknet is a subset of the deep web specifically designed for anonymity and privacy.
Is it illegal to access the darknet?
No, accessing the darknet itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities while on the darknet is against the law.
Can I be tracked while using the darknet?
While the Tor network provides significant anonymity, it is still possible to be tracked if you do not follow best practices for security. Using a VPN can help mitigate this risk.
What types of websites can I find on the darknet?
The darknet features a wide variety of sites, including:
- Forums and communities focused on privacy.
- Whistleblower platforms.
- Marketplaces for services and goods, both legal and illegal.
- Blogs and news outlets offering censored content.
Conclusion
Accessing the darknet can provide opportunities for privacy and freedom of expression, but it comes with risks. By following the steps outlined above and prioritizing your safety, you can navigate this hidden part of the internet more effectively.
