This article explains how to use the Tor Browser for anonymous internet browsing, focusing on its operation on macOS and iOS devices. It details the setup process, highlights recommended apps like Onion Browser and Orbot for iOS users, and discusses privacy considerations, including potential speed reductions and risks associated with malware. The article emphasizes Tor’s ability to protect user privacy while providing a list of services suitable for use with Tor, such as secure email providers.
Are you interested in exploring the dark web or simply wish to safeguard your personal information from advertisers and corporations? The Tor Browser offers a solution for masking your IP address and ensuring your online anonymity.
While using the Tor Browser on a Mac is relatively straightforward, users of iOS devices should take note of a few considerations. This article will guide you through the functionality of the Tor Browser, how to set it up on both Mac and iOS devices, and important tips to remember while using it.
Understanding the Tor Browser
The Tor Browser, referred to as ‘The Onion Router’, is a free tool allowing anonymous web browsing through the Tor network. When you connect via Tor, your internet traffic is encrypted and routed through multiple servers.
Initially developed in the 1990s by the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory for secure government communications, the Tor Browser was introduced in 2008 to simplify access for activists, journalists, and general users seeking to maintain privacy online.
Installing Tor Browser on macOS
The Tor Browser is compatible with various desktop systems, including Macs. To get started, download the Tor Browser for macOS from the official site and follow these steps:
Upon entering search terms, you will have the option to perform searches in English. Agreeing to this will help obscure your identity online.
To adjust browser settings, click on the menu represented by three horizontal bars and select ‘Settings’.
Using Tor Browser on iOS Devices
Currently, there is no dedicated Tor browser for iOS. However, the Tor Project endorses two apps that provide access to the Tor network and help conceal your IP address:
Onion Browser
Onion Browser is a widely-used app for iOS that facilitates Tor network access. Available for free in the App Store, it’s easy to use.
Simply download the Onion Browser from the App Store and follow the setup instructions to connect to the Tor network.
Keep in mind that browsing with Onion Browser may be slower than using a standard browser combined with a VPN, as data must travel through the Tor network for added anonymity.
Orbot
Another option for iOS users is Orbot, developed by The Guardian Project. This app not only secures your browsing but also routes internet traffic from other applications through the Tor network, enhancing privacy for messaging apps and other services.
Important Considerations When Using Tor
While Tor significantly boosts your online privacy, there are several factors to keep in mind when using it on macOS and iOS devices:
Slower Speeds: Due to the multiple encryption layers and routing processes, Tor browsing may be slower. Consider whether your need for privacy outweighs the reduced speed, as streaming and data-heavy sites can be challenging to navigate.
Partial Anonymity: While Tor conceals your IP address and internet activity, it does not guarantee complete privacy. Websites may still employ tracking methods like cookies and browser fingerprinting.
Use Caution with Plugins and Downloads: Avoid browser plugins such as Flash and Java, as they can compromise your IP address. Additionally, be wary of file downloads; opening them outside of the Tor environment may expose your location.
Download Only from Trusted Sources: Ensure all Tor-related software comes from reputable sources. For iOS, obtain Onion Browser and Orbot directly from the App Store, and for Mac users, download the Tor Browser from the official Tor Project website.
Beware of Malware and Phishing
While Tor helps evade tracking, it does not protect against malware and phishing attacks. Exercise caution when visiting unfamiliar sites and refrain from clicking on dubious links.
Benefits of the Tor Browser
Not all online services are suitable for Tor. Streaming services, for instance, may not perform well due to the slower connection. However, some services are well-suited for use with Tor, such as email providers.
Services like ProtonMail offer a ‘.onion’ address for accessing email accounts via Tor, providing end-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy.
Ultimately, the Tor Browser is primarily used to keep browsing histories and online activities hidden. It protects your privacy by routing data through random servers within the Tor network.
Moreover, Tor is compatible with messaging applications like Orbot for iOS, allowing encrypted message exchanges through the Tor network, adding