What is the dark web? How to access it safely (complete guide)

Gannicus Oliver Last updated: March 8, 2023 Read time: 34 minutes Disclosure

Wish to have robust dark web safety? This guide tells you all there is to know about the darknet and how to access both the deep web and dark web safely.

Sneak peek at dark web safety

The dark web, the subset of the Deep Web, is the intentionally hidden online content that regular search engines do not index. Consequently, it is unapproachable via standard browsers and requires specific tools like the TOR browser to access it. Despite having some positive aspects, it mainly serves as a paradise for criminal minds. For instance, it hosts illegal websites and facilitates the sale/purchase of banned chemicals and drugs, weapons, stolen data, and other inappropriate material. Therefore, it is extremely risky to access content on the dark web. Thus, preventive security methods are crucial for ensuring safe and anonymous dark web surfing.

You think you know too much about the internet, right? But how much do you know about the dark wonders of the internet? Probably that is why you’re on this page.

More like real life, the internet is so broad that it will take you a lifetime to traverse. In fact, even before you’re halfway done, a lot of content would have been added that you’ll need to start all over again.

We already know it, but how many are aware that the content you encounter on the web is merely the tip of the iceberg of information?

As per several studies, the hidden internet is so vast that it is impossible to know precisely how many pages or websites are active at the same time.

This web was once only the haunt of hackers, special forces, and criminals. However, thanks to new technologies, such as encryption and anonymity tools like a VPN or Tor browser, it is now possible to delve into it if desired.

So, are you looking to get into the dark web? Whichever your reasons are, you definitely need to learn how to access the dark web anonymously and safely.

What is the Darknet, and how does it work

But what’s the dark web anyway?

Let’s start by pointing out the fact that what we can typically see online is about 4% of what the internet contains.

So, where is the rest of the content? On the deep web.

The deep web is simply the internet section that is not indexed by search engines.

Therefore, it means that it can only be accessed with special anonymity tools like Freenet, I2P, and the famous The Onion Router (TOR) bundle.

Unfortunately, the deep web is usually confused with the dark web (I’ll explain the differences in a while).

Personal records/information and government documents are kept on the deep web as they’re not meant for public view.

However, still, they’re mostly connected to the internet as part of the information that forms an ecosystem for most surface web applications.

The deep web is often run on networks of private servers, which allows communication via specific means only.

Therefore, that way, it enables a top-notch degree of anonymity and makes it even more difficult for authorities to shut down – a reason why most illegal activities take place on the dark web (a part of the deep web).

Even though Darknet is famous for hosting illegal activities, it is a safe haven for activists, journalists, and others who need to preserve their identity.

What is the difference between the dark, deep, and surface web?

The internet is an extensive network of millions of servers, databases, and web pages that run continuously. However, it’s more than what meets the eye. Think of it as an iceberg, with only a tiny part visible above the surface. If you dig deeper, you’ll discover the mysterious world of the deep web and, for the brave ones, the foreboding dark web.