A handful of dark web search engines that do index .onion sites include NotEvil, Ahmia, Candle, and Torch. Dark net websites are called “Tor hidden services”, and they can be distinguished from normal websites by their URLs. So, if you want to know how to access the dark web safely, you need to understand that the vast majority of the dark web, or dark net, is only accessible through the Tor browser.
Some mainstream sites are only accessible via the deep web because of how they customize each page to the user. Streaming platforms are a great example of this, requiring you to enter your login credentials immediately before you can continue to watch your favorite TV shows and movies. Much like the internet itself, the dark web is the product of the U.S. government attempting to build communication networks for military and self-defense purposes. I opened up the HiddenWiki and tried to pick the most interesting sites I could find.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a platform for privacy advocates, journalists, and others requiring anonymity.
How Do I Get to the Dark Web?
But make sure you’re careful which links you click on — some of them lead to sites that contain illegal content and services. I really like that there are different site categories (like blogs, email services, file uploaders, forums, etc.) — it makes it very easy to find the content you want. 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).
If you’re interested in exploring the dark web, it’s important to proceed with caution and awareness. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to access it safely:
You, or data about you, could already be at all three levels of the internet – and this should concern you. If you do just want to stop ad networks tracking you, browser plugins such as Ghostery can block trackers. You should also consider installing an ad blocker, which will prevent most harmful or marketing URLs from loading in the first place. Still, this open and cataloged “crawled” web content is still estimated to make up less than 1% of the internet. If you have time on your hands, you can just wander through the aisles of a library looking at every book. But if you want to find something specific, you can also ask a Librarian to help you locate it.
Significantly smaller than the tiny surface web, the dark web is considered a part of the deep web. Using our ocean and iceberg visual, the dark web would be the bottom tip of the submerged iceberg. With over 1.5 billion indexed pages, Haystack boasts more indexed sites than any other deep web search engine. Haystack does not track your data or compromise your privacy for profit, although the free version will serve you occasional ads. The Hidden Wiki isn’t a completely unrestricted search engine, because it uses filters to block many of the scam sites found on the dark web.
By encrypting data at multiple stages, the Onion routing technology ensures that users remain hidden when browsing the web. Similar to the open web, the dark web is populated by groups and individuals that construct and run websites, not all of which promote or facilitate unlawful activity. Although the deep web and the dark web may seem intimidating and dangerous, they’re actually surprisingly simple services to get started with and use. In principle, the dark web is just a version of the internet that you can only access using a Tor browser and where it’s almost impossible to identify the users and owners of the websites on there.
The Hidden Wiki is a surface website offering a collection of dark web links — but the links don’t always work, and they may not be safe. Use it to get an idea of what sort of dark websites you may be interested in visiting. But before visiting any sites on the dark web, get comprehensive cybersecurity software to protect yourself from any threats you may encounter. Surface web search engines can’t access the dark web, but specialized dark web search engines can help you find what you’re looking for.
Step 1: Preparation
- Research the potential risks associated with accessing the dark web.
- Ensure your motives are legitimate and ethical.
Step 2: Use a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, allowing you to maintain a degree of anonymity. Choose a reliable VPN service, preferably one that does not keep logs of your activity.
Step 3: Download Tor Browser
The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser. Here’s how to install it:
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser suitable for your operating system.
- Install it following the on-screen instructions.
Step 4: Configure Your Settings
Upon launching the Tor Browser, review the security settings. Set your security level to “Safest” to maximize protection against various online threats.
Download And Install The Tor Browser
Step 5: Browse Cautiously
While using the Tor network, always remember:
- Do not share personal information.
- Avoid downloading files directly; they may contain malware.
- Stick to well-known dark web sites, often ending in “.onion”.
Common FAQs
What can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a range of content, including forums, marketplaces, and blogs. However, many of these sites can host illegal activities, so it is important to remain cautious.
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
- Unfortunately, some commenters seem to have nothing better to do with their time than post offensive and derogatory comments, so consider blocking their channel rather than continuing to feed the trolls.
- Organizations use intranets for internal communication and documentation and for hosting internal online tools.
- You also need to understand that searching the dark web works a little differently to a regular search.
- You don’t need a server to upload content to Freenet, as long as your content is popular, it will remain.
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, participating in illegal activities is punishable by law. Always stay within legal boundaries.
How do I stay safe on the dark web?
To enhance your safety while browsing:
- Utilize a VPN.
- Enable strict security settings in Tor.
- Be selective about the websites you visit.
- Never engage in illegal transactions.
Conclusion
Knowing how do I get to the dark web involves more than just technical steps; it requires understanding the risks and ethical considerations. By following the outlined steps, you can minimize potential dangers while exploring this lesser-known part of the internet.
