Start using the Dark Web

(Credit: makeuseof)

Dark Web vs. Deep Web

Before you learn what exactly dark web is, it’s important to know what makes it different from its bigger brother, the deep web.

In a nutshell, deep web and dark web are two terms often confused for one another. When in reality deep web refers to anything on the web that can’t be found using a search engine. That includes emails in your Gmail account, direct messages on social networks, and even your Facebook photos that you marked as “private”.

Dark web, however, is just a sub-section of the deep web. Unfortunately, the dark web is responsible for the bad reputation the deep web has. Black markets selling illegal substances, grisly images, and even new identities for sale—just about every illegal thing can be found there.

At the same time, the dark web is well worth exploring (with caution). You just need to know what you’re doing.

In order to access the sites that aren’t available on the so-called surface web (www), you’ll need to get two essential things ready: a VPN and Tor browser.

We strongly recommend shielding yourself with a VPN before you enter the dark web. For your security, first run your VPN, and only after a connection is established start the Tor Browser.

There are many vpn providers, you have to find out which one is best for you. Maybe Techradar can help you further to make a decision.

Now, get yourself the Tor browser. It’s a browser designed to help you access sites on the .onion network, and that’s where you’ll find the dark websites.

Even though VPN and Tor are quite powerful and should be enough to keep you safe while browsing the dark web, it won’t hurt to take more precautions. Disable your JavaScript, close all your software while on the dark web, and cover your webcam.

When you first start Tor browser, it won’t lead you to any particular .onion sites. Tor simple provides a safer (encrypted) way to access the normal web. There is no indexation of the search results like Google or Bing. In order to go on an .onion site, you’ll have to know it exists and its location. There are a few ways to find active .onion sites. Of course you can use the tools en scrips on our website to find the results you’re looking for.

A Note of Caution: Click With Care

Before you go on to the sites of the dark web, there’s one more thing to keep in mind. While browsing the deep web, be careful what you click. Even something as innocent as reading the descriptions of some sites can make you uncomfortable. Browse with a purpose and don’t give in to your curiosity here.