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The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It’s a network of unindexed websites that can be accessed only with the use of specialized software. The dark web is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore what the dark web is, how to access it, and what to expect when you enter.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a collection of websites that are not indexed by search engines such as Google, Bing, or Yahoo. These websites are hidden behind multiple layers of encryption, making them difficult to locate and access. The dark web is often used for illegal activities, such as buying and selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data. However, it also has legitimate uses, such as providing a platform for political dissidents, whistleblowers, and journalists to communicate anonymously.
How to Access the Dark Web
What to avoid on Tor?
- Avoid sharing your personal data. Once you enter your Facebook, Google, or any other account, you are not anonymous anymore.
- Turn on the safest mode.
- Visit only HTTPS websites.
- Don't click on suspicious links.
- Update your antivirus software.
- Use a virtual private network (VPN).
To access the dark web, you will need to use a specialized browser such as Tor. Tor (The Onion Router) is a free, open-source software that allows you to browse the internet anonymously. When you use Tor, your internet traffic is routed through a series of volunteer-operated servers, which makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
Stay Informed And Stay Safe While Browsing The Dark Web
To get started with Tor, download the software from the official website and install it on your computer. Once installed, open the Tor browser and navigate to the dark web by typing in the URL of a hidden service. Hidden services on the dark web have URLs that end in “.onion” instead of “.com” or “.org”.
Don’t Stick Your Nose Where It Doesn’t Belong
What to Expect on the Dark Web
When you enter the dark web, you will find a vast array of websites that are not accessible through traditional web browsers. Some of these websites are used for illegal activities, while others are used for legitimate purposes. It’s important to remember that the dark web is not regulated, so there are no guarantees about the safety or legitimacy of the websites you visit.
Another option for accessing the Dark Web is using directories and search engines specifically designed for this purpose. These directories provide a list of curated sites on the Dark Web, categorizing them into different topics. By using these directories, you can navigate the Dark Web more easily and find websites that align with your interests. Another benefit of the Tor browser is its ability to access both the surface web and the Dark Web. While the primary purpose of the Tor browser is to provide anonymity on the Dark Web, it can also be used to access regular websites. However, it is important to note that the Tor browser may be significantly slower than traditional browsers due to the multiple relays and encryption methods employed to protect user privacy.
Here are a few things you can expect to find on the dark web:
- Estimates place the size of the deep web at between 96% and 99% of the internet.
- The Dark Web is a collection of websites, forums, and marketplaces that are only accessible by using the Tor browser.
- Because not all the information you can access online belongs in the public domain.
- You can download the Tor Browser for Windows, MacOS, Linux, and Android.
- Illegal Marketplaces: The dark web is home to a number of illegal marketplaces where you can buy and sell drugs, weapons, and stolen data.
- Forums and Chat Rooms: The dark web has a number of forums and chat rooms where people can communicate anonymously. These forums can be used for a variety of purposes, from political discussions to illegal activities.
- Leaked Data: The dark web is often used to sell and trade leaked data, such as credit card information, social security numbers, and email addresses.
- Whistleblowing Platforms: The dark web provides a platform for whistleblowers to share information anonymously. This can be useful for exposing corruption and wrongdoing in governments and corporations.
The company’s website provides detailed instructions on how to use it. Again, we don’t recommend this method – though it might be preferred if the security of Tor exit nodes is of concern. Its inherent anonymity allows everyone from dissidents to whistle-blowers the opportunity to share information free from persecution. In many cases, this information can itself be used to prevent illegal activities. Ransomware has become an extremely lucrative business model for cybercriminals.
Conclusion
Why is Tor so slow?
Tor circuits lengthen the connections
So instead of connecting directly to the destination server, a connection is made between each relay of the circuit and this takes more time. Furthermore, Tor tries to build circuits with relays in different countries which make connection travel more and appear slower.
Anonymity is powerful with Tor and the framework of the dark web, but it is not infallible. Any online activity can carry breadcrumbs to your identity if someone digs far enough. As such, the dark web has attracted many parties who would otherwise be endangered by revealing their identities online.
Entering the dark web can be a daunting experience for beginners, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s possible to explore this hidden part of the internet safely. Remember to always use a trusted VPN service and a specialized browser like Tor to protect your privacy and security. Be cautious of the websites you visit and the people you interact with, as the dark web is not regulated and can be dangerous.
How do I access Tor browser?
You can download the Tor Browser for your desktop from the official download page. The link for the Android version will take you to a page with downloads for . apk files. On that same page, you'll find a link to the Google Play Store Tor entry.