By Dan Patterson | October 31, 2016, 12:15 PM PST
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Tor, the onion router web browser that allows users to access the Dark Web and other encrypted websites.
When privacy is outlawed, only outlaws will have privacy. And digital outlawswill probably use Tor. An acronym for 'the onion router', Tor is a free web browser and suite of open source software that enhances user privacy by encrypting web packets and browsing activity.
Tor is complex, yet easy to install and operate. The tool is widely used by reporters, political dissidents, hackers, and Dark Web profiteers to communicate anonymously. Tor enabled the Arab Spring, is used by millions of Chinese users to skirt the Great Firewall, and helps sources and whistleblowers safely share vital information with reporters. Conversely, the encrypted browser also allows hackers to snoop safely, and has helped illicit Dark Web markets flourish.
TechRepublic's smart person's guide is a routinely updated "living" precis loaded with contemporary information about about how the onion router works, who Tor affects, and why privacy-enhancing software is important.
Executive summary
What is it: Though Tor is built on the Firefox open source protocol, it's actually actually a number of integrated technologies. The browser itself carefully mitigates common web tracking tools like cookies and analytics systems. The Tor network is composed of thousands of servers around the world. When a user browses with Tor, web activity and packets are bounced through each server, obfuscating the originating and destination IP address.
Why it matters: As web privacy erodes the Tor foundation argues that the platform helps preserve free speech free thought.
Who it affects: From activists to hackers to Dark Web surfers, many users depend on Tor to protect their identity, and often their lives. Companies and consumers may need Tor to protect sensitive web actions.
When it's happening: The tech powering the onion router was
