

Performance is another aspect worth discussing when it comes to Tor Browser. However, because it still allows a decent degree of customization and since it can access most of Firefox's add-ons from the store, it somewhat makes up for this drawback.įurthermore, some websites actually block connections through Tor. How is living with Tor Browser on a daily basis?Įven though the similarities between it and Firefox (in terms of GUI) are striking, Tor Browser was not exactly designed to offer the best user experience (even though it's definitely not bad).įor starters, it doesn't have all the built-in features of Firefox. This means that Tor Browser is never really up to date with the latest Firefox security patches, performance improvements, and new features. Because Tor doesn't encrypt the data between the exit node and the destination server, for an extra level of protection in this particular scenario, the use of a VPN and an antivirus app are highly recommended.Īnother interesting fact is that Tor Browser is based on Firefox Extended Support Release versions. However, please note that Tor Browser (and Tor) can only fully encrypt data between nodes if you use HTTPS (so be aware of non-HTTPS connections). This makes it difficult for a potential non-do-gooder to monitor your connection.īy using Tor Browser, you ensure a higher level of privacy (when compared to most browsers) since your IP address is obscured and far more difficult to track. Of course, data is encrypted between each node. Your traffic is routed through three nodes before the destination (this is known as the "Tor Circuit"). To understand this, you must know it relies on Tor, a network of nodes (maintained by various volunteers of the Tor project group) that protect your privacy by rerouting your browsing data/traffic. There are some serious limitations and potential privacy limitations you should be aware of. What it can and can't doĭespite a couple of amazing security features, Tor Browser may not be all you're expecting it to be. Launched in 2002 by the infamous Tor Project group, Tor Browser is a Mozilla Firefox-based browser that bundles a few extra pre-installed privacy and security features. Tor Browser is probably the easiest way to "experience real private browsing without tracking surveillance, or censorship." For instance, Tor Browser is also a good browser, despite its niche appeal. Of course, there's much more nuance to Tor and Tor Browser's existence. Tor Browser is widely renowned for being the go-to solution for accessing the so-called Dark Web.
