Tor Browser

Tor Browser provides an alternative way to access the internet. To be more specific, the free to use software makes internet browsing a safer, more private experience. Otherwise, by using one of the popular browsers out there, computer users run the risk of being tracked by all kinds of third-party trackers. In plain English, Tor Browser guarantees web anonymity. In this day and age, with malicious cyberspace groups and intrusive governmental groups making everyone feel like they're under surveillance as soon as they come online, a privacy-centric connection is essential.

Granted, the Tor Network can be tracked if the agencies involved have access to major web tracking tools, so don't expect to confound the CIA or NSA when using this web interface. Mainly, it's designed to add a layer of privacy to everyday web browsing users. For example, third-party advertisers like to use geolocation protocols to track their visitors and log their location. Locally, ISP companies sometimes monitor heavy data usage patterns. Let's face it, no one wants to be monitored by their service provider or targeted by ad content. That's an incredibly intrusive act, but that's just one of the things online site visitors are willing to tolerate. With Tor Browser installed and running, web visitors connect to the internet through a special gateway. Known as the Tor Network, this "bridge" anonymizes the location and identity of a connecting computer. Install the lightweight Browser, connect, and know that the online gateway is entirely secure.

Out in the wider world, oppressed computer owners employ Tor Browser as a safe way of joining a larger online community. Reporters use the software, as do anonymity-seeking hacker types. No matter, any member of the general public can access and download the software. The program is small and streamlined, so expect a lag-free online journey. However, because of the proxy tunnelling and globally routed network routes, plus the use of a widely distributed network of "Onion Routers, what should generally be a fast and responsive web loading process could slow down to a mere crawl. If that's the case, though, changes can be made. If webpage loads do suffer from significant slow down issues, there's are other options available. For instance, traffic can be configured so it bounces off of a different group of international servers. From here, a simple speed test lets the program user know whether the Tor connection loads a page faster. By the way, that's another good reason to install Tor Browser, the fact that it's completely configurable.

Finally, don't rely on Tor Browser. It's a powerful identity and location anonymizer, but it's not perfect. If in doubt of its capabilities, add a VPN to the connection circuit.