The Dark Web Browser: All About the Hidden Segment of the Internet

DarkNet is an illicit online space for anonymous communication, trade, and file sharing. It harbors a wide variety of scammers and adult content. Hence, AWAX experts advise against visiting it, and they do not assume responsibility for the outcomes of the recommendations in this article.

The Internet is a vast network connecting people from around the world. However, not all information is publicly available. There exists a segment hidden from regular search engines, only accessible through specialized browsers, known as DarkNet (or dark Web).

This is the most controversial and somewhat dangerous part of the Internet. Nevertheless, it remains popular despite the high risks of fraud and cyber threats.

As of 2023, DarkNet boasts 2.5 million daily active users, according to Earth Web data.

DarkNet's primary advantage is complete online anonymity with security guarantees, allowing users to interact virtually beyond legal boundaries. Even Facebook and the United Nations use this Internet segment to protect dissidents and journalists.

AWAX experts have prepared an article explaining what this network entails, its contents, how to get to the Dark web, and the tools for safe surfing.

Understanding DarkNet: Key Aspects and Principles

DarkNet is an anonymous online space accessible only through specialized software. This segment is free from censorship, not controlled or regulated by anyone, making it attractive to many users.

Connections in the black web are established between trusted nodes in encrypted form, using non-standard ports and protocols. This network employs its own DNS, meaning domains and address spaces are unique.

The network operates with complex mathematical encryption. All network traffic hops from server to server worldwide, making it impossible to trace personal data and user locations. Messaging occurs under pseudonyms unrelated to real identities. Most financial transactions use bitcoins and escrow services to protect buyers and sellers from unfair trade.

DarkNet is often confused with the deep web. Despite their similarities, they are distinct concepts with a subtle difference. The deep web typically encompasses all web pages, forums, and online stores that are not indexed, making them unfindable through standard search engines. However, unlike the dark web, they use the standard network protocols HTTP/HTTPS, allowing access through regular browsers.

Is the Dark Web Illegal?

DarkNet is legal in most countries. If you're not engaging in illegal activities, you shouldn't have any problems using it.

The web black contains a variety of illegal items, such as weapons, pirated software, drugs, fake documents, and more. However, not everything on it is criminal. The network was created to provide free access to information while preserving privacy and bypassing censorship.

You can find perfectly legal materials here, such as works of art, books, paintings, photos, and videos that may be subject to censorship. Additionally, this segment hosts blocked forums and portals restricted by authorities' regulations. In this network, everyone has the right to safe communication, making it a popular place for investigators and journalists conducting research.

When venturing into the dark web, it's important to remember that there are no rules or guarantees for the safety of the materials you purchase, download, or even their delivery. The prevalence of fraud and counterfeit goods is significant. Downloaded materials or purchased items may easily turn out to be illegal in your country, making you a lawbreaker.

Furthermore, DarkNet can expose you to advertisements containing malicious software. However, if you use an ad blocker, you can mitigate this issue.

How to Get the Dark Web?

You can liken DarkNet to a sketchy neighborhood where you might encounter criminals. Is it illegal? No, but be cautious if you decide to visit.

The easiest and most common way to browse Dark web is to download the Tor or I2P (Invisible Internet Project) browser. Both tools can be used legally. Tor protects your IP address when visiting websites, while I2P provides anonymity.

Officially, Tor is supported on Windows, Mac OS, Android, and Linux operating systems. Its use is not recommended for iOS.

Make sure to download the Tor browser only from the official website. This will help you avoid "infections" of your device with malware, spyware, and viruses.

To install Tor, choose a folder and wait. The program will offer one of two options:

Connect directly, which involves standard connection settings.
Configure network settings, where you can customize bridges and change the default search engine.

Addresses in the Dark web differ by their top-level domain, .onion, instead of the familiar .com, .org, .io, etc. When using publicly available onion addresses, exercise caution to avoid falling victim to scammers.

Guide to Staying Safe on DarkNet

You already know how to get in the Dark web. But how can you protect yourself while using it? Risks leading to irreversible consequences lurk at every turn.

Let's consider some ways to help you avoid risks if you still want to explore this segment of the Internet.

Regularly update Tor

Ensure you have the latest version of the Tor browser. Malware and fraudulent schemes constantly evolve to exploit browser vulnerabilities. Always keep your Tor browser updated and stay informed about vulnerability notifications.

Use a VPN connection

Virtual private networks help safeguard your online privacy. They protect your identity and secure all data transmitted to and from your device. The VPN you use must meet your needs.

Avoid using macro

Enabling scripts can open the door to malware and significantly increase the risk of infection. Some regular websites, like YouTube, may require macros but think twice when a DarkNet site asks you to enable them.

Be cautious with downloaded files

Malicious code can be embedded in almost any type of file. You won't know that software is "infected" until you download and install it. If necessary, use a virtual machine to isolate the file from the rest of your operating system to avoid virus infection.

Install an ad blocker

As mentioned earlier, malicious software is often found in advertisements, and there's no shortage of ads on the Dark web. Use a reliable and effective ad blocker like AWAX to protect your device. It not only removes annoying ads but also enhances your privacy.

Why Is AWAX the Best Solution for the Dark Web?

Despite the abundance of similar software, AWAX stands out thanks to its rich functionality, cross-platform compatibility, and availability.

Using it for the dark segment of the Internet allows you to:

Reduce the risks of encountering malicious advertisements.
Protect your personal data.
Prevent online activity tracking in your browser.
Increase web page loading speed.

Knowing how to get Dark web and installing the reliable AWAX ad blocker on your device, you can access the black web safely and enjoy its benefits without falling victim to scammers or viruses.

Bottom Line

DarkNet is a hidden segment of the Internet that can serve as a refuge for individuals facing persecution for their activities or political beliefs. It employs complex systems to anonymize users' IP addresses, making online tracking extremely challenging.

Accessing the network is not possible through regular browsers. How to access the Dark web? Specialized software, such as the Tor browser and the I2P application, is required. Despite the numerous advantages of the hidden Internet segment, it has a significant drawback – a high level of fraud and threats to privacy, among others.

Therefore, if you decide to visit it, make sure to install a reliable and effective ad blocker like AWAX. With it, you can rest assured about the safety of your data and enjoy faster and smoother web page browsing.

DarkNet is an illicit internet space for anonymous communication, trade, and file sharing. It can contain various types of scammers and 18+ content, so AWAX experts do not recommend visiting it, and they do not take responsibility for the results of the recommendations provided in the article.