Introduction
Understanding how to get to dark web can seem daunting for those unfamiliar with online privacy and security practices. The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires special software to access. This article will guide you through the necessary steps to navigate this hidden online realm safely.
Using a legal browser will not make your actions fall to the right side of the law. The deep web rests below the surface and accounts for approximately 90% of all websites. This would be the part of an iceberg beneath the water, much larger than the surface web. In fact, this hidden web is so large that it’s impossible to discover exactly how many pages or websites are active at any one time.
The most well-known method of accessing the dark web is through Tor browser. The dark web sites on Tor have .onion attached right at the end of the web address, and can only be accessed by said web browser. However, there are methods used to access dark web sites without using Tor. In this article, we will cover how we can access dark web sites with a regular browser, as well as the methods used to identify and research actual dark web sites belonging to hacker groups.
Do NOT perform other activities using the surfer account aside from running the VPN and VM. Enter absolutely no personal information in the surfer account and particularly in the VM. For this guide, we’ll use the Tor Browser as an example, but any other web browser (like Brave) that supports the Tor protocol will work just as well. Other examples of compatible web browsers include the Onion browser, Firefox and Chrome, but the latter two require you to install a separate plugin.
I tested all the website links on The Hidden Wiki and almost all of them work (I was able to access sites like Deep Web Radio and ProPublica without any issues). It is extremely easy to access the dark web and even easier to be detected on it if you don’t take precautions. These dangers can interrupt business operations, defraud a company and devalue a brand’s integrity. The best way to avoid these dangers is to avoid using the dark web entirely.
As you are now familiar with the three different sections within the entire world wide web, let’s take a closer look at how you can access the dark web anonymously. We’ve also previously mentioned the “dark users” that use the dark web for illegal reasons, but the less said about them, the better. Absolutely no one knows who’s surfing on the dark web, who is selling, who is buying or anything like that – as long as you take the correct safety and online privacy precautions.
While visiting any of the sites you find on those Wiki sites, do not maximize your browser, as it can help identify you by your monitor resolution. In this guide, we’ll show you what you need to know about how to access the dark web and how to keep yourself safe while you use it. Install AVG Secure VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your privacy wherever you go on the web.
Dark Web or Dark Net is a subset of the Deep Web, where there are sites that sell drugs, hacking software, counterfeit money and more. We explain this further down the article if you are not up to speed. If you are looking to access hidden marketplace’s or darknet websites (with a .onion domain) then dark web access is done using the TOR network with the TOR browser bundle. The dark web’s anonymity accommodates illegal activity and contributes to its reputation as being a haven for criminals. This anonymity, coupled with access difficulties and a high barrier to entry, facilitates all manner of illicit activities such as drug and human trafficking, weapons deals, and money laundering.
What is the Dark Web?
The exit node decrypts your traffic and thus can steal your personal information or inject malicious code. Additionally, Tor exit nodes are often blocked by websites that don’t trust them, and Tor over VPN can’t do anything about that, either. If you connect to your VPN and fire up Tor Browser, you’re using Tor over VPN, this is by far the most common method.
Is The Dark Web Safe And Do I Need A VPN To Access It?
The dark web is a subset of the deep web, where content is not accessible through standard browsers. This space is often associated with anonymous activities, including forums, marketplaces, and communication tools.
Why Access the Dark Web?
- Privacy: Users often seek anonymity for exchanging information, whistleblowing, or political activism.
- Research: Academics and journalists use the dark web for investigating various topics.
- Access to Restricted Content: Some may wish to access information banned in their country.
Steps to Access the Dark Web Safely
To learn how to get to dark web, follow these steps carefully.
1. Use a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is crucial for maintaining your privacy on the internet. Here’s how to set one up:
- Choose a reputable VPN service.
- Download and install the VPN client.
- Connect to a server before accessing the dark web.
2. Download Tor Browser
Tor (The Onion Router) is the most popular browser for accessing the dark web.
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser suitable for your operating system.
- Install the browser following the provided instructions.
3. Configure the Tor Browser
Upon launching the Tor Browser, ensure that it is properly configured for anonymity.
- Select “Connect” to start using the Tor network.
- Adjust security settings in the Tor menu, if needed.
4. Access .onion Sites
Websites hosted on the dark web typically end with a .onion domain. Use reliable directories and forums to find these links. Keep in mind:
- Always verify the credibility of the sources.
- Be cautious about personal information.
- Buy login credentials to a $50,000 Bank of America account, counterfeit $20 bills, prepaid debit cards, or a “lifetime” Netflix premium account.
- My favorite VPN to use when browsing the dark web is NordVPN, as it’s the only reputable VPN provider that offers dedicated servers for accessing the Tor Network.
- This means that even outside of Tor, a VPN will keep you safe and secure, preventing your ISP, hackers, or snoopers from spying on your activities.
Safety Tips for Navigation
When exploring the dark web, prioritize your safety by following these tips:
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid sharing personal information.
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Do not download files from unknown sources.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: If engaging in transactions, consider anonymous cryptocurrencies.
FAQs
What can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts various content, including forums, marketplaces, and potentially illegal material. Always proceed with caution.
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities while there can lead to serious consequences.
Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
While Tor provides a degree of anonymity, no method is foolproof. Using a VPN significantly increases your security.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get to dark web can open up unique avenues for exploration and research. However, it’s imperative to navigate this space with a focus on safety and privacy to avoid potential risks. Always adhere to the best practices outlined in this guide to make your experience secure and anonymous.