You could easily use Tor in an attempt to pirate copyrighted content from the deep web, share illegal pornography, or engage in cyber terrorism. Using a legal browser will not make your actions fall to the right side of the law. The dark web, however, is a very concealed portion of the deep web that few will ever interact with or even see. In other words, the deep web covers everything under the surface that’s still accessible with the right software, including the dark web. The deep web rests below the surface and accounts for approximately 90% of all websites.
Understanding the Darknet
The Risks Of Accessing The Dark Web
- On the other hand, the dark web is a small subsection of the deep web.
- The release of Freenet in 2000 is considered by many as the start or founding of the dark web.
- Millions of regular internet users access private databases such as email inboxes and credit card accounts daily.
- This invisiblity is what makes the dark internet such a strange place, providing as a rendezvous stage for hitmen, black hat online hackers, drug traders, and even kid pornographers.
- Making sure you’re connected via HTTPS is one solution to this problem, as is using a virtual private network.
- Install Avast SecureLine VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your privacy wherever you go online.
We recommend checking your local laws before visiting dark web domains using Tor or a VPN. All kinds of goods are sold and bought here, ranging from Netflix accounts to drugs to weapons. The important thing to note is the existence of these markets is illegal. As mentioned, these URLs are difficult to remember, being strings of random letters, numbers, and special characters. We’ll discuss how to access the dark web in more detail later on in the article.
The darknet is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It provides a level of anonymity for users but also contains illegal activities. If you’re interested in learning how to access the darknet, here are the steps to follow.
But there are also many illegal activities that happen on the dark web. And just like in real life, using the dark web for criminal purposes is never legal. Tor over VPN requires you to place some trust in your VPN provider but not your ISP, and is best if you want to access .onion websites. VPN over Tor requires you to place trust in your ISP but not your VPN and is best if you want to avoid bad Tor exit nodes. Some consider VPN over Tor more secure because it maintains anonymity throughout the entire process (assuming you pay for your VPN anonymously).
Requirements for Accessing the Darknet
Before diving into the steps, ensure you have the following:
Not only will your data be protected, but you’ll also get faster download and upload speeds in parts of the web you wouldn’t normally. We can understand the temptation to explore the Dark Web to see what you’re missing out on — but tread cautiously. If a website is trying to conceal itself from mainstream search engines, ISPs and governments, it probably has a very good reason for doing so. If you have a legitimate or viable need to access the dark web, you’ll want to make sure you stay safe if you decide to use it.
A VPN creates a secure and private connection between your device and the internet. It encrypts your traffic, making it nearly impossible for anyone to intercept or monitor your online activity. The difference between the dark web and the deep web is that the deep web refers to websites and web pages that aren’t indexed by search engines, like login pages and payment portals.
Connecting to the dark web might draw unwelcome attention to your online activity, though, either from your ISP or your government. Normal sites on the deep net (like your online banking site or email account) sit behind secure logins, paywalls, passwords, and authentication forms, but you don’t need any special software. By contrast, to access dark web websites, you need special tools or software like Tor Browser. This means you are depending on your VPN provider 100% to keep you secure.
Imagine what type of content people might post with complete anonymity. The DarkNet is filled with the heroes and horrors of free and unregulated expression without the limitations or decency of the law. Tor software encrypts web traffic in layers that allow it to bounce traffic around the world. With each pass, a layer of encryption is deleted before the data moves to the next network. Though it isn’t foolproof, it’s the best-known way to prevent anyone from spying on computers that enter the Dark Web.
- Secure Internet Connection: Use a reliable network to enhance safety.
- VPN Service: A Virtual Private Network helps mask your IP address.
- Darknet Browser: Common browsers include Tor and I2P.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Access the Darknet
Step 1: Set Up a VPN
The first step in how to access the darknet is to download and install a reputable VPN. This encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, ensuring your anonymity.
Step 2: Download a Darknet Browser
The most common browser for accessing the darknet is the Tor Browser. Follow these instructions:
- Visit the Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser that is compatible with your operating system.
- Install the browser following the on-screen instructions.
Step 3: Configure the Browser
Once you have the Tor Browser installed:
- Open the browser and click on “Connect”.
- Allow the browser to establish a connection to the network.
Step 4: Accessing Darknet Websites
To access darknet sites:
- Use URLs ending in .onion, which are specific to the Tor network.
- Be cautious and use reliable resources or directories to find sites.
Important Safety Tips
While accessing the darknet can be intriguing, it’s essential to prioritize your safety:
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Keeping personal data private is crucial.
- Avoid Downloading Files: Downloads can contain malware or harmful content.
- Be Aware of Scams: The darknet has many scams; exercise caution with transactions.
FAQs
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 small portion of the deep web specifically designed for anonymity and secrecy.
Is accessing the darknet illegal?
Accessing the darknet is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities on the darknet is against the law.
Can my government track me if I use the darknet?
While the VPN and Tor Browser provide anonymity, no method is foolproof, and some governments have advanced ways to track users.
Conclusion
Understanding how to access the darknet involves both technical know-how and a commitment to safety. Always prioritize your privacy and security while exploring this hidden part of the internet.
