Tor is one of the most trusted networks for accessing the dark and deep web. Tor alternatives are less secure due to their extensive array of servers, layers, circuits, and bridges.
The majority of Tor users browse the Internet anonymously and access “Onion URLs.” However, ISP throttling does affect Tor’s privacy, security, and speed.
Best Tor Alternatives that are Better Than Tor – Detailed List
When you search for other alternatives on the internet, you may find several options. Although they are good options for accessing the dark web through the Tor browser, they may not give the best results. According to extensive testing and research, the following are the best for the dark web. Here is a look at them.
1. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
VPN as a Tor alternative
VPNs are the best privacy software for anonymous browsing. They protect you from slow glances. When you connect to a VPN, you can be assured that web trackers, hackers, ISPs, or any other surveillance can’t track your activity.
Best VPNs Available
- NordVPN is one of the best VPN service providers with over 5000 servers and all the features. It can work well with Netflix, Torrenting Tor, ISP throttling, etc. You can get a 30-day free trial at www.nordvpn.com.
- Surf Shark is perfect for Netflix, torrenting, bypassing ISP restrictions and privacy. There’s also the availability of a 30-day free trial and 3,500+ servers.
- ExtremeVPN is secure and has over 6,500+ servers. It allows it to work on Netflix, Torrenting, and Tor, which means that you can bypass ISP throttling. When disconnected from the VPN, there is no IP leakage of addresses or internet traffic because of the kill switch feature, thus making it a better alternative to Tor.
What are the two primary functions of a VPN?
- By replacing your old IP, it takes a new one. It helps you break through geo-restrictions.
- This encryption ensures maximum security and safety of internet data. The VPN tunnel encrypts data, sending it to the VPN server; therefore, no one knows what you do while connected online.
A VPN changes your virtual location. Other benefits of using VPNs include:
- The internet is always fast.
- You can stream geo-blocked content from various channels.
- It is possible to stop the ISP throttle.
2. Freenet
Freenet is another darknet alternative that works with P2P networks to protect privacy. It is free and censorship-resistant. Users use a distributed decentralized data store that separates network rules from the user interface. It has proved to be a good choice for the last twenty years. You can download it for free for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
3. GNUnet
GNUnet supports peer-to-peer communication through Bluetooth, WLAN, and TCP/UDP ports. To protect sensitive information, PII is kept in a limited amount.
4. I2P Browser
I2P, also known as the Invisible Internet Project, employs DarkNet technology and is reportedly the ideal alternative to access dark websites. Encrypting internet traffic on I2P with public and private keys provides online privacy that no one can interfere with.
5. Subgraph OS
Subgraph OS is another Tor alternative. It uses the Tor operating system and includes software dedicated to privacy. The unique interface is hard to track and crack. It also has a meta-proxy and firewall that provides complete anonymity while surfing the dark web.
6. Epic Privacy Browser
Epic is our second Tor alternative. The program is simple, easy to use, and guarantees maximum protection and increased internet browsing speed. This program also protects IP leaks from certain WebRTCs.
The best feature is that it shows information about who is tracking you and blocks those people. It also comes with a proxy encode that hides your personal information. This proxy ensures that you stay safe while browsing in public. It also blocks other information like fingerprints and photo canvases, making it a great Tor alternative.
7. Yandex Web Browser
Yandex is another popular Tor alternative for anonymous surfing. It is an open-source Chromium project but does not allow users to set up proxies.
It has several security-enhancing extensions, including an ad block, site reputation indicators, and a flash blocker. The file is scanned by Kaspersky antivirus, and possible vulnerabilities are checked before downloading it using Yandex. It protects against malware and cyber threats.
8. Firefox Focus
Firefox Focus is the latest entry in our list of the best Tor alternatives. The Firefox Focus browser, developed by the Mozilla Foundation and Corporation, is compatible with all major platforms, including Android and iOS.
Mozilla may track usage data with this feature enabled by default. It also comes with features to block social trackers and ads. This feature allows users to streamline their web browsing without affecting their speed.
9. PeerBlock
PeerBlock is a touring alternative that protects you from online tracking. It allows you to control how many people connect with you online, which can be handy when you download torrents.
They fail to prevent trackers from following you. It is popular because it is free and available in the market.
10. ZeroNe
ZeroNet is another darknet alternative popularly used by P2P networks. Users exchange data via the network, but no server is centralized. Bitcoin encryption is also working, along with the BitTorrent network. Public keys serve to identify websites instead of IP addresses.
It works like a discussion forum initially, but you can jump from site to site and find pages on any topic. You can download ZeroNet directly from the official Windows, macOS, and Linux websites.
11. Disconnect Browser
A disconnected browser will disconnect users from any websites that track them. It is possible by identifying all companies and websites that track netizens. Before blocking them, the browser asks for permission.
It is compatible with Android, iOS, and Windows. The disconnected browser allows you to search and browse any information. It is possible to do this even if one wants to browse the dark web. Security experts say this is not ideal.
12. IprediaOS Encrypted Browser
Our second favourite Tor alternative is IprediaOS. This Linux distribution offers encryption software and ensures users are safe from hackers. Because it secures data with encryption, it can be called a secure Tor alternative.
13. Tox
Tox is an option to evade surveillance or utilize encryption; it is a secure and easy-to-use instant messaging application that lacks objectives.
Tox applies encoding to secure all your typed text on open-source software, and you will be safe from cybercriminals, let alone track you since only the person you are talking with will get what you say.
14. Komodo Ice Dragon
Komodo IceDragon is an appropriate browser if you are worried about privacy and security. The tool has privacy and security features to improve users’ experience. It scans for infections on web pages because it has malware detection capabilities.
15. JonDo Live CD
JonDo is another Linux-based OS that can work with Tor as its substitute. This software guarantees that users are anonymous while surfing the internet safely. It comes with pre-configured packages such as Thunderbird, Pidgin, Tor Browser, etc.
In addition, it ensures that your internet browsing is fast and uses techniques that protect you against web profiling.
16. Siphon Browser
Siphon Browser comes next in our list of Tor alternatives. This browser uses several security systems to protect your online privacy. It is easy to use and has a simple interface. It uses VPN and SSH as its tools. It’s the best way to hide your IP on Android and iOS.
17. Whonix
Whonix provides high security. This software is compatible with Linux and hides your IP while you browse the Internet. This program utilizes Whonix-Workstation for privacy and security on a private platform.
18. Portable Lightweight Security System
Linux software that doesn’t connect or communicate with external servers is susceptible to tracking. Lightweight Portable Security, the Tor alternative, is the best because it does not require external servers.
It creates a secure end node protected from any Intel system. It doesn’t require administrator rights but requires external memory infrastructure to boot.
19. Globes
Globes 18 uses a VPN to protect your privacy. Tor protects against malware and tracking by third parties and is used to unblock blocked websites.
20. Tails
The complex tail system is the most secure and effective alternative to protection. This software uses cryptographic techniques to encrypt instant messages, emails, and data files. The user can surf anonymously on the web to prevent trackers from tracking his online activities. It is a great way to circumvent internet censorship.
21. Frapto
Frapto offers the best Tor alternatives for Linux users. The encryption is so high-quality that tracking is difficult. Free to use from USB sticks. This software automatically encrypts your USB drive to increase security.
Problems Related to Tor
Tor is known to have some issues, including:
- Tor will not use a bridge with a proxy. Difficulty setting Tor browser as the default browser
- If the folder path contains non-ASCII characters, Tor will not run. If the Tor browser used to work before but no longer does, your system may be in hibernation. Rebooting your computer can fix the problem.
- BitTorrent does not reveal its name on Tor.
- Adobe Flash is not available because it is inaccessible to ensure security.
- Tor needs to set your time zone and system clock correctly.
- Users may not use the Tor browser by antivirus or other security software.
- Most Tor Browser plans are from January 1, 2000, 00:00 UTC. It is to ensure that every software model is reproducible.
- VPNs can affect Tor, so it’s best to switch it off. Configure the VPN so that security is not compromised.
Why is There a Need for Tor Browser Alternatives
People use Tor for two main reasons:
- Access the Dark Web.
- Enjoy anonymous browsing on the web.
Security experts discovered problems with Tor, which was once one of the most secure browsers. They no longer recommend it.
Consumers are more concerned about digital privacy than ever before. Below are some valid reasons why Tor alternatives were in demand.
Your internet connection is slow. Tor slows down your internet connection by up to 40%. It is because traffic passes through multiple relays.
The result is a frustrating user experience.
- ISP may detect Tor.
- Data is not encrypted.
It can lead to legal problems for people who want to hide sensitive data using Tor. If the government knows you use the Tor browser, it can monitor your online activities.
VPN: Why Do You Always Need It
Tor has its disadvantages. The Tor users employ alternative ways to increase their online anonymity and security. Most people use a VPN service provider to maintain their privacy while using Tor.
- One of the best privacy and security tools available for Tor browsers is Tor Over VPN. Additionally, it allows users to access Onion sites anonymously.
- Others assure anonymity as well, including Tor Browser alternatives. By far, the most reliable choice for Tor is VPNs because they come with many features. Combining VPN with Tor will step up your level of defence.
- This is the finest software for enhancing one’s privacy. It obscures all your online activities so that nobody knows you were there. This program also helps prevent cyber risks or threats to your private data.
- Connecting via a VPN conceals your IP address, and as it employs end-to-end encrypted traffic, the data will appear like scrambled nonsense.
Conclusion
Tor is a popular anonymous browser. Security and privacy concerns have forced users to look for alternatives. The best Tor alternatives allow users to surf anonymously and block all tracking websites. Users can enjoy multiple benefits from the best Tor alternatives.
FAQs
Is Tor Browser Replaceable?
Yes, it is. Several other options, like DuckDuckGo Browser, Brave Browser, and I2P Network, are available.
Is the CIA in Control of Tor?
No. It is open-source software run by volunteers who are not in any way related to the CIA. Claims of the CIA using it exist, but this network preserves user privacy and security. The encrypted data within Tor is inaccessible to the CIA.
Can Someone Track You on Tor Browser?
Tor is a highly secure browser that provides privacy through encryption and a network of different servers, making tracking impossible. It provides anonymity beyond regular browsers and features like New Identity enhance privacy.
