How to Access the Dark Web: A Comprehensive Guide

The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to access the dark web safely and securely.

ExpressVPN provides high-end security features that are ideal for surfing the dark web. It has a no-logs policy that has been independently audited and verified and it uses RAM-only servers, meaning every server reset wipes all data. Perfect forward secrecy (PFS) is also available, which changes your encryption key for each VPN connection to prevent hackers from compromising past or future encryption keys to spy on your traffic. So, I put together a list of the best dark web sites in 2024 to help you get started. I also included instructions on how to access the dark web, and outlined how to stay safe when browsing dark web links (the dark web is also home to many scams and malicious sites).

What is the Dark Web?

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Dark web search engines don’t quite resemble the search engines you’re used to seeing, like Google. Plus, they’re not as efficient in helping you navigate to where you want to go. This is due to the ever-evolving nature of the dark web — search engines there simply can’t keep up with the changes, often providing irrelevant or repetitive results. Android users will need to download Orbot and Orfox to access the dark web with their phones. Orbot will connect you to the Tor network, and Orfox is the actual browser that you will use. You can access Tor on your phone or iPad (not advised) — but not on Chromebook.

The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and requires special software to access. It 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 whistleblowers and journalists to communicate securely.

How to Access the Dark Web

To access the dark web, you will need to use a special browser called Tor. Tor is a free software that allows you to browse the internet anonymously. It works by routing your internet connection through a series of volunteer-operated servers, which makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.

What Is The Dark Web And How Do You Access It?

I recommend choosing a premium VPN with a verified no-logs policy that’s based in a privacy-friendly country and offers high-level encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. Remember to connect to a VPN server before launching the Tor browser for maximum security. It runs automatically in your web browser when you open it, so I recommend using a different browser than you normally do to ensure privacy.

Step 1: Download and Install Tor

Some of the websites give you a link to the .onion extension – as sky-fraud does. One of the most important things when browsing in the deep web is to leave as little traces as possible. With the tracking technologies of standard browsers like Chrome, you might put yourself at risk, so the best option you have is to use Tor. Tor is the best onion browser because it hides your network traffic with Tor routing by constantly changes your IP, and leaves no traces to reveal your identity. It is not quite uncommon to hear people use the terms ‘darknet’ and ‘deep web’ interchangeably, but that is very inaccurate.

The first step is to download and install the Tor browser. You can download it from the official Tor project website. Once you have downloaded the installer, run it and follow the instructions to install Tor on your computer.

How To Download And Use Tor

Your email inbox, online banking and Google Drive folders are undiscoverable via a web browser. It’s the parts of your internet activity that aren’t hidden per se, but can’t be accessed by others online. I hope this article has given you a better understanding of the dark web and what it takes to access it safely.

Step 2: Connect to the Tor Network

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Once you have installed Tor, launch the browser and connect to the Tor network. This may take a few seconds, as Tor needs to establish a secure connection to the network. Once you are connected, you will be able to access the dark web.

And this is definitely what we all want when we surf on the deep – Anonymity. You have definitely heard there is a deep side to the internet where not everyone can access it. If you’re burning with curiosity, this post is designed to satiate you. I have spent lots of time on the Dark Web, partly for the growth of my knowledge as a hacker, and partly for my cyber threat intel work.

Step 3: Browse the Dark Web

To browse the dark web, you will need to use special .onion URLs. These URLs are only accessible through the Tor browser, and they cannot be accessed through regular web browsers. You can find .onion URLs on various dark web forums and directories.

Staying Safe on the Dark Web

Accessing the dark web can be risky, as it is often associated with illegal activities. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Use a VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) can help to mask your IP address and encrypt your internet connection, making it more difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
• Do not download files: Downloading files from the dark web can be dangerous, as they may contain malware or viruses. Only download files from trusted sources.
• Use strong passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all of your accounts. This will help to protect your personal information from hackers.
• Be cautious: Be cautious when interacting with others on the dark web. Do not give out personal information, and be wary of scams and phishing attempts.

• The Dark Web offers many attractions, from illegal marketplaces to macabre videos.
• Tor is mainly used for people to browse the open web anonymously, a very small percentage of its traffic relates to Hidden Services (below).
• When used for bad, as on the Dark Web, encryption can prevent the police and government from spotting illegal online activities, such as child pornography, prostitution, drug sales and more.
• Antimalware and antivirus protections are equally crucial to prevent malicious actors from exploiting you.
• There is a slight difference between them, that might take you from scrolling down interesting hidden content – to conducting an illicit activity, and sometimes even gamble with your fate.

Conclusion

Accessing the dark web can be a fascinating experience, but it is important to do so safely and securely. By using the Tor browser and following the tips outlined in this article, you can explore the dark web without putting yourself at risk. Remember to always be cautious and to use common sense when interacting with others online.