Tor Definition
Tor, an acronym for The Onion Router, is an internet browsing service that allows users to maintain privacy and anonymity online. Designed and developed by the United States Navy, the Tor network has been made accessible to civilians for private, secure browsing away from prying eyes including advertisers, governments, and potential hackers.
Tor Key Points
- Tor allows for anonymous web browsing.
- It was originally developed for the U.S. Navy.
- Tor doesn’t just hide your identity, but also your internet activity.
- It is made available for civilian use.
What is Tor?
Originating from the military, Tor is a web browser designed for users who need to maintain high levels of privacy online. Because of Tor’s unique onion routing method, it is significantly more secure than other mainstream browsers. While other browsers allow for the collection and tracking of data, Tor ensures that the data is layered and encrypted ensuring full anonymity and privacy.
Who uses Tor?
Tor is widely used by a multitude of users. Individuals who prioritize privacy such as activists, journalists, and whistleblowers use Tor to protect their online activities from being tracked. Corporates use Tor to safeguard their sensitive data as well. Individuals living under repressive regimes use Tor to bypass censorship and access an uncensored internet.
Where can Tor be used?
Tor can be used on any internet-enabled device. It operates as a separate internet browser, much like Google Chrome or Safari, and can be used to access any sites or online resources. However, due to its unique privacy features, some websites may treat Tor traffic differently, making it challenging for users to access all services.
When to use Tor?
The use of Tor is recommended whenever online anonymity is paramount. Whether you’re researching sensitive topics, ensuring private communication, accessing sites blocked by regional or national censorship, or seeking to evade aggressive online marketing, Tor offers a highly secure browsing experience.
Why use Tor?
Tor is used primarily for maintaining online privacy. As it encrypts user data and obfuscates their IP address, users can browse the internet without being tracked or monitored. This is vital for people living under oppressive regimes, journalists working on sensitive stories, or any internet user who just values their privacy.
How does Tor work?
Tor works by routing users’ internet traffic through several servers, or ‘nodes’- much like the layers of an onion, hence the name ‘The Onion Router’. As data passes through each node, an additional layer of encryption is peeled away. By the time it reaches its final destination, the original data is visible. However, the source and route taken to reach the destination remain hidden, protecting user’s privacy.
