Opening Onion links without the Tor Browser can be challenging. There are not too many options available to route your internet traffic through the Tor network, and the available options are often considered less secure. You would be exposed to risks like your IP being visible to the website you are visiting and enjoying no protection against tracking.
The best method to access the Dark Web websites is using the Tor Browser. However, if you want to surf the Dark Net causally, here is a guide on how to open Onion links WITHOUT using the Tor Browser.
How to open Onion links without Tor Browser
One of the easiest and only ways to open Onion links is using the Brave Browser. You cannot use Chrome or any other browser to open it. Brave browser has a built-in Tor feature that lets you access .onion sites without installing the Tor Browser. The feature is called Private Window with Tor, and here is how to access it:
- First, download and install Brave browser if you don’t already have it.
- Next, click the Hamburger icon and select New Private Window with Tor. It will automatically start connecting to the Tor Network.
- Once connected, you are free to visit your favorite .onion sites.
Alternatively, you can try accessing a .onion site. A Tor icon will flash up in the address bar—if you click on it, the website will open in a Private Window with Tor.
You can access .onion sites without the Tor Browser. However, for better privacy, using a Tor Browser is a better choice than any alternative.
Read: Customize Brave browser new tab page
Can the Onion browser be traced?
Onion routing uses advanced techniques for masking online identity and offers a high degree of anonymity but doesn’t guarantee complete privacy. While Tor encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through multiple layers, your internet service provider (ISP) can still detect that you’re using the Tor network.
Is Tor browser illegal?
While Tor is a legal tool, many activities on the dark web are illegal. Using Tor Browser is subject to the laws of your specific location. Depending on your country, accessing certain dark websites may be against the law.