Understanding Tor: Beyond Standard Browsers
Tor, short for “The Onion Router,” is more than just a browser. It’s a network of volunteer-run servers (called nodes) designed to mask your identity online. Here’s how it works:
- Encryption: Before it hits the open web, your internet traffic is encrypted in multiple layers – like the layers of an onion.
- Bouncing through relays: Your encrypted data is sent through at least three randomly selected Tor relays, making it extremely hard to track your origin.
- Exit node: The final relay in the chain then decrypts your traffic and releases it onto the regular internet.
This process anonymizes your browsing not only to websites but also to your internet service provider and anyone trying to monitor your network traffic.
How to use Tor Browser
In a world where online privacy is constantly under threat, the Tor Browser offers a powerful tool for safeguarding your identity and protecting your digital footprint. Whether you’re a journalist, an activist, or simply someone who values privacy, Tor can give you an unprecedented level of online anonymity. Let’s explore how to use the Tor browser safely.