Best Browsers With Built-In VPN: The Ultimate Guide

Step 4: Visit The Dark Web Sites

How Do People Access the Dark Web?

Access

The surface web accounts for roughly 5% of information on the internet. Unlike regular deep web sites such as your email account, the dark web is inaccessible unless you have special tools or software like the Tor browser. Some even say that the real dark web requires an invitation to participate. In more technical terms, the dark web is the part of the web where sites are hosted on so-called darknets — computer networks overlaid on other networks.

The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It’s often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses. So, how do people access the dark web?

• Nate Drake is a tech journalist specializing in cybersecurity and retro tech.
• The dark web continues to be a valuable tool and exchange network for many groups around the world.
• This is how anonymity is built and data is protected in the Tor browser system.
• Infamous criminal sites live there, but so do popular, well-known sites and brands.

The dark web was created not long after the first message was sent in 1969 over the original internet, ARPANET. Covert networks — or darknets — emerged quickly to provide users with private networks to communicate on. While it’s not illegal in many places to simply get on the dark web, the dark web is used for some illegal what is escrow darknet markets purposes. Many things for sale on dark web marketplaces are illegal, like ransomware or other strains of malware, illicit drugs, weapons, and in some cases, even human organs. Your internet service provider and the websites you visit can detect when Tor is being used because Tor exit IP addresses are public.

Simply put, the deep web is any part of the Net that is not indexed by search engines. This includes websites that gate their content behind paywalls, password-protected darknet markets websites and even the contents of your email. The dark web, on the other hand, uses encryption software to provide even greater security.

The dark web has also been used for other nefarious activities, such as the sharing of child pornography and the planning of terrorist attacks. Law enforcement agencies have tried to track down and prosecute individuals involved in such activities, and there have been several high-profile arrests and convictions in recent years. Take a look at our overview of the most trustworthy, fast, and safe VPN services. Like the regular internet, the dark web is home to all types of sites. To access deep web pages, you need the specific link to the page you want to access.

The surface web seems vast, but it is in fact just about 4% of the overall web. Millions of regular internet users access private databases such as email inboxes and credit card accounts daily. These pages are not indexed by search engines and are the dark internet protected behind security walls, authentication forms, and passwords on the deep web. When you use Tor, which routes your internet traffic through many different relay “nodes,” your online activity is obscured because you’re browsing anonymously.

Use a Dark Web Browser

To access the dark web, you need a special browser that can handle the Tor network. The most popular dark web browser is the Tor browser, which is a modified version of Firefox. It routes your internet connection through a series of volunteer-run servers, which hides your IP address and allows you to access .onion sites.

Download and Install the Tor Browser

To get started, go to the Tor Project’s website and download the Tor browser. Once the download is complete, open the installer and follow the prompts to install the browser on your computer. Launch the Tor browser, and you’re ready to start exploring the dark web.

Be Cautious

Accessing the dark web can be risky, as it’s home to many illegal activities. It’s important to remember that law enforcement agencies monitor active darknet markets the dark web, and you could potentially get in trouble with the law. Always use caution and avoid engaging in any illegal activities.

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

To add an extra layer of security, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing the dark web. A VPN encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address, making it more difficult for anyone to track your online activity.

Don’t Share Personal Information

It’s also important to avoid sharing any personal information while on the dark web. This includes your name, address, phone number, and email address. Scammers and hackers often target dark web users, so it’s essential to protect yourself.

Conclusion

Accessing the dark web requires a special browser and a healthy dose