Using Tor Safely
How to use the Tor Browser and Tor network securely. Covers hidden services, exit node risks, unsafe behaviors, and OPSEC principles.
What You'll Learn
What is Tor?
Anonymous Network
Tor routes your traffic through multiple volunteer-run servers to hide your identity and location.
Privacy Protection
Prevents websites from tracking your browsing habits and identifying your real IP address.
Hidden Services
Access .onion websites that are only available through the Tor network.
Censorship Circumvention
Bypass internet censorship and access blocked content in restrictive regions.
Open Source
Free and open-source software that can be audited by security researchers.
Volunteer Network
Run by volunteers worldwide, making it difficult for any single entity to control.
Installing Tor Browser
Step 1: Download Tor Browser
Only download Tor Browser from the official website to avoid malicious versions.
Security Warning
Never download Tor Browser from third-party websites. Always use torproject.org
Step 2: Install and Configure
Extract and Run
Extract the downloaded file and run Tor Browser. No installation required - it's portable.
Connect to Tor
Click "Connect" to establish a connection to the Tor network. This may take a few moments.
Security Level
Set security level to "Safest" for maximum protection, but be aware this may break some websites.
Tor Security Configuration
Security Levels
Standard
Default settings. Good for general browsing with basic protection.
Safer
Disables JavaScript on non-HTTPS sites. Better protection.
Safest
Disables JavaScript, some fonts, and images. Maximum security.
Bridge Configuration
When to Use Bridges
Use bridges if Tor is blocked in your country or network.
Bridge Types
Obfs4, Snowflake, and meek bridges help bypass censorship.
Configuration
Configure in Tor Browser settings under "Connection" → "Bridges".
Hidden Services (.onion sites)
What are Hidden Services?
Hidden services are websites that are only accessible through the Tor network. They have .onion addresses and provide additional anonymity for both users and website operators.
Popular Hidden Services
Understanding Risks and Dangers
Exit Node Risks
Exit nodes can see your traffic. Use HTTPS for all connections and avoid logging into personal accounts.
Behavioral Risks
Your behavior can still reveal your identity even when using Tor.
OPSEC Principles
Operational Security
Technical Security
Using Tor with VPN
VPN → Tor (Recommended)
Connect to VPN first, then use Tor Browser. This hides your Tor usage from your ISP.
Tor → VPN (Not Recommended)
Using Tor then VPN can reduce anonymity and is generally not recommended.
Tor Security Checklist
Setup
Behavior
Ready to Use Tor Safely?
Start with the official Tor Browser and follow these security guidelines. Remember, Tor is a powerful tool but requires careful usage.