How To Use A PureVPN To Access The Dark Web
If you’re in a country with strict censorship, for example, its free version won’t make the cut. Windscribe also offers its own “Wstunnel” which is an obfuscated VPN protocol that serves to circumvent censorship. According to Windscribe, this protocol is your last resort when none of the other protocols seem to work.
Exploring the Dark Web with a VPN
Given that Tor is slow to begin with, this is the exact opposite of what you want. Atlas VPN is a smaller VPN provider with just under 800 servers in around 40 locations. In my streaming tests, the provider showcased that it offers more than enough bandwidth to enjoy HD and 4K content (when available) with little to no buffering.
The dark web is a hidden sector of the internet that requires specific software to access, often associated with anonymity and illicit activities. To safely navigate this shadowy world, using a dark web VPN becomes essential.
- Check out the video below to find out exactly how and why you should use a VPN with Tor.
- Tor is mostly used for dark websites and most of the other websites can recognize the traffic coming from Tor.
- Compared to NordVPN and PIA, ProtonVPN doesn’t have RAM-only servers.
- It makes visiting the dark web easy, with dedicated Onion Over VPN servers that connect you to the Tor network via the VPN.
- Just make a Google search for VPN service and you will see that there is no shortage of VPN providers to choose from.
What is the Dark Web?
And without experience deciphering trustworthy dark web sites, it’s easy to fall prey to dangerous cybercriminals. The deep web includes all internet content protected by passwords, authentication forms, and firewalls — like subscription services, banking information, and email accounts. Most of the web is actually the deep web, and whenever we enter login credentials and passwords to view web content, we’re accessing a part of the deep web. A virtual private network (VPN) extends a private network across a public network, such as the Internet. It enables users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to the private network.
ExpressVPN uses a robust AES-256 encryption, the same level of security used by many governments and militaries worldwide. It incorporates a zero-knowledge, no-logs policy, meaning your online activities are never stored or shared. Its TrustedServer technology operates entirely on RAM, preventing data from being written to a hard drive and ensuring all information is wiped with every server reboot. Also, its kill switch feature, termed as Network Lock, protects your data in case your VPN connection drops. While Hola VPN offers a free version, it has been involved in controversies regarding its network being used for illegal activities by its users.
The dark web is a part of the internet that has been intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It includes encrypted networks and requires specific tools like Tor to access.
Why Use a Dark Web VPN?
A dark web VPN offers several crucial benefits:
Though VyprVPN’s server network is not extensive with the presence of Chameleon protocol, you can enjoy browsing the dark web with stable speeds. Get VyprVPN now, and if you are not satisfied, you can ask for a refund within the initial 30 days of the purchase. It is a trustworthy VPN and follows a verified no-log policy, so your activity or data logs will not get exposed. Also, it belongs to the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of Switzerland, which protects users’ data with strong data protection laws. It has an impressive Anonobox router allows users to set up a firmware router to access the dark web via the Tor browser.
- Enhanced Privacy: A VPN masks your IP address, preventing tracking and enhancing your online privacy.
- Security: It encrypts your internet connection, guarding against hackers and snoopers.
- Access Restriction Bypass: A VPN allows you to bypass geographical restrictions and access global dark web content.
- Anonymous Browsing: It provides a level of anonymity necessary when navigating the unregulated environments of the dark web.
This can help ensure that your internet data isn’t logged and sold to third parties. Tor, short for “The Onion Router,” is a free software and browser used for anonymous web browsing and communication. To do so, Tor relies on a network of servers scattered across the globe. With each server maintained by an individual volunteer, it is hard for anyone to track your web traffic. It’s not easy to find what you’re looking for on the dark web, especially if you want to do it safely. You should only ever access websites you know are safe because they’re vetted by websites or other sources that you already know are safe.
If you’d like to read more about the premium versions about these services, check out our full reviews, also linked below. Needless to say, this is not what most users look for in a VPN — free or otherwise. In fact, your data falling into the hands of third parties is exactly what you want to prevent by using a VPN. As stated above, we don’t condone any activity—on the dark net or otherwise—that is forbidden by law. Based in Switzerland, ProtonMail is an encrypted email service that is very popular with cryptocurrency enthusiasts. Following the NYT, the BBC launched a dark web “mirror” of their international edition in 2019.
Features to Look for in a Dark Web VPN
When selecting a dark web VPN, consider these features:
- No-Logs Policy: Choose a VPN provider that does not keep logs of your browsing activities.
- Strong Encryption: Look for AES-256 encryption to ensure maximum security.
- Speed and Performance: A good VPN should maintain fast connection speeds, even with encryption.
- Multiple Server Locations: More options for server locations enhance accessibility and anonymity.
- Kill Switch: This feature ensures your internet connection drops if the VPN fails, protecting your data.
Steps to Access the Dark Web with a VPN
To ensure a secure experience while browsing the dark web, follow these steps:
- Choose a Reliable VPN: Research and select a reputable dark web VPN provider.
- Install the VPN Software: Download and install the VPN application on your device.
- Connect to the VPN: Open the software and connect to a server. Ensure you select a server outside your country for better privacy.
- Download and Install Tor: Visit the official Tor Project website to download and install the Tor browser.
- Access the Dark Web: Use the Tor browser to enter .onion sites safely.
FAQs About Dark Web VPNs
Q: Is it safe to use the dark web?
A: While the dark web hosts legitimate content, it also contains illegal activities. Using a dark web VPN significantly enhances safety by protecting your identity and data.
Q: Can a VPN protect me from malware on the dark web?
A: A VPN increases security but does not eliminate the risk of malware. Always use additional security measures, such as reliable antivirus software.
Q: Are there legal risks associated with the dark web?
A: Accessing the dark web is not illegal per se, but engaging in illegal activities is. A dark web VPN can help protect your identity, but it does not shield you from legal consequences of unlawful actions.
Using a dark web VPN is crucial for anyone looking to explore this hidden part of the internet securely and anonymously. With the right tools and precautions, you can navigate the dark web while minimizing risks.
