Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using TOR Browser

In this age of viral content and targeted trolling, nothing is quite personal in the digital sphere. Perhaps someone in some corner of this world is keeping an eagle-eye on whatever you browse on the internet. Scary enough, right? 

So, are you looking for some privacy on the digital world? Do you want to have your freedom to watch anything without being watched over? Welcome to the TOR browser.




What is the TOR Browser?

TOR (The Onion Router) is an open-source and free browser just like other web browsers available in the market. However, the main feature of this browser is that it helps you hide your IP (Internet Protocol) address while browsing various websites. Therefore, you can easily use the interest as an anonymous user.

Released in September 2002, TOR sends your request to any arbitrary node whenever you type a web address. Then, this node forwards your request to another random node. Finally, the third node approves your request.


Advantages and Disadvantages of Using TOR Browser:-

Like any other existing web browser, TOR has a set of advantages and potential drawbacks. Here we’ll list down for you a few positives and negatives of using the TOR browser.


Advantages of Using TOR Browser->


1. It Hides Your Internet Protocol (IP) Address

The main purpose of using the TOR browser is to hide your IP address, so that no authorities can check which websites you are accessing through internet.


2. No Geographical Boundaries

Using the TOR browser, you have no geographical limitations regarding accessing certain websites. Generally, some contents are not available in certain countries. But with TOR, you have the all-access pass.


3. Provides You With Network Security

The websites you access using TOR are secured and encrypted. It famously uses the DuckDuckGo engine and its security features. So, you don’t need to worry about your personal information.


4. Free and Available Across All The Platforms

The TOR browser is completely free and an open-source platform. It is even available across platforms like Linux, Mac OS, Windows, and UNIX.


Disadvantages of Using TOR Browser->


1. Not Fully Secured

Although TOR provides some security, it is not entirely secured or risk-free. Hence, you have to be extra careful while sharing data with this browser.


2. Illegal Activities

Many people use the TOR browser for illegal activities like buying drugs or guns. Therefore, the government constantly keeps eye on the TOR users and keep them under surveillance.


3. The Interface Is Backdated

The user interface of TOR is pretty outdated with its font style, looks and overall experience. However, the latest version incorporates a Firefox engine but still most of the Firefox addons don’t work here.


4. Network Is Slow

The overall network of TOR is pretty slow as it redirects through three different nodes. So, if you are using Chrome or Firefox as your primary browser, you will have a hard time with TOR.


Conclusion

If your sole purpose is to access blocked websites without spending substantial money, you can use TOR. But remember your movements are absolutely traceable by the governing bodies. So, refrain from trying this for illegal activities.


You may be interested in:- Best Practices To Follow To Secure Your CMS Website

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