5 Methods to Access Onion Links Without Using Tor Browser
Key Notes
- You can open onion sites using alternative browsers like Brave.
- Mobile applications like Orbot facilitate access to onion links on smartphones.
- VPNs with specialty features can help you access onion links securely.
Unlocking Onion Links Without Tor: Explore Alternative Methods
Navigating the world of onion sites is typically done through the Tor browser. Yet, in certain circumstances, using Tor is either impractical or blocked by various entities. This guide provides multiple alternatives that allow you to access onion links securely and effectively.
1. Utilize the Brave Browser for Onion Links
Step 1: Install the Brave Browser
Begin by downloading and installing Brave. Post-installation, navigate to the hamburger icon and access Settings -> Privacy and security -> Tor windows. Activate all options except Use Bridges, which is primarily for blocked Tor situations.
Step 2: Open Onion Links in Brave
Upon entering an onion link in the address bar, you might encounter a ‘blocked’ message. Click the Open in Tor option indicated by an onion icon. A new private window will appear. Look for the Tor connected successfully notification before you start browsing.
Pro Tip: Open multiple tabs to access different onion links simultaneously!
2. Access Onion Links via Orbot (iOS/Android)
Step 3: Setup Orbot on Your Device
To use Google Chrome for onion sites on mobile, download Orbot. After installation from either the Google Play Store or the App Store, tap the Start VPN button and confirm the VPN request.
Step 4: Configure Orbot for Chrome Access
Go to More -> Hosted Onion Services in Orbot, and enable User services. Then, navigate to Choose Apps to add the browser app (e.g., Google Chrome) to the list and click Save.
Step 5: Open Onion Links using Chrome
You can now paste an onion link into Chrome; it should open directly on your browser. If you encounter a Not secure warning, simply click Continue to site.
3. Open Onion Links Using Additional Mobile Applications
Step 6: Explore Other Mobile Apps
Alternatives to Orbot exist, such as the Ornet app, available on both iOS and Android. Ornet allows users to enable Tor in the app’s settings for onion site access without ads or interruptions.
Other options include:
4. Verify Onion Links with Cross-Browser Testing Tools
Step 7: Test Onion Links Using Browser Testing Tools
If your goal is simply to verify the functionality of an onion link, consider using cross-browser testing platforms like Browserling. This tool allows you to configure the operating system and Tor settings to check whether the onion site is active without requiring a browser installation.
5. Employ VPNs with Dedicated Onion Servers
Step 8: Connect Using VPNs with Onion Support
Certain VPN services, like NordVPN, offer options specifically for accessing onion sites safely. To utilize this feature, select the Onion Over VPN from the connection options, choose your desired server, and connect. You should now be able to access onion links through your preferred browser seamlessly.
Summary
This guide highlighted various alternatives to accessing onion links without installing the Tor browser. Methods included using Brave, Orbot, dedicated mobile apps, cross-browser testers, and specialized VPN services, ensuring secure and straightforward access to the dark web.
Conclusion
While the Tor browser is the most recognized means to access onion links, various alternatives are available for those seeking different routes. Using solutions like Brave, Orbot, and specialized VPNs can offer successful access without needing Tor, especially in restrictive environments.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I access onion links without a VPN?
Yes, you can use alternative browsers like Brave or apps like Orbot to access onion links without a VPN.
Are there risks in accessing the dark web?
Yes, while there are safe ways to browse the dark web, visiting certain sites can expose your device to risks or illegal content.