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Using an untraceable web browser leads to a much safer online experience. Fortunately, it’s easy to start using a browser that prioritizes your privacy.
Here are the best private browsers that are (almost) completely anonymous.
1
Tor Browser
The Tor network has a simple purpose: anonymous browsing. It is the best private web browser available and the the best browser to access the dark web. The network aims to protect the user’s location, browser history, personal data and online messages from any person or bot that performs network traffic analysis.
To access the Tor network, you need to use the Tor Browser. It is so safe that the US Navy uses it for intelligence gathering. Tor is also used by law enforcement organizations that want to visit websites without leaving government IP addresses in the site log. It is available for all major OS, such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS and Linux.
There are also some disadvantages to using the Tor Browser. For most users, the biggest issue is speed. Because your traffic takes such a circuitous route to reach its destination, your browsing experience won’t be as fast. If you have a good connection, this might not be a problem, but if your internet speed is slow, Tor might become painful to use.
|
Pros |
cons |
|---|---|
|
Strong anonymity and privacy features. |
Slower browsing speed due to more relays. |
|
Layered encryption for enhanced security. |
Potential compatibility issues with some websites. |
|
Ability to access the dark web and blocked websites. |
Download: Tor Browser for Windows | Mac | Android | iOS (free)
2
Epic Browser
Epic Browser does not use a specialized onion network, but it immediately disables many of the most common ways your privacy is compromised when you surf the web.
For example, this free private browser does not save your history; there is no DNS pre-fetching; does not allow third-party cookies; there is no web or DNS cache; and there is no auto-fill feature.
The browser automatically deletes any databases, preferences, cookie data and cookies from Flash and Silverlight when you close your session.
Epic Browser also protects you against the latest scams and malware, such as fingerprint scanners, crypto mining, ultrasound signaling, and more. It is available for all major operating systems.
|
Pros |
cons |
|---|---|
|
Robust privacy features, including ad and tracker blocking. |
Limited support for extensions compared to mainstream browsers. |
|
Encrypted proxy for added anonymity. |
Smaller user bases, potentially leading to less comprehensive support. |
|
User-friendly interface for a perfect browsing experience. |
Download: Epic Browser for Windows / Mac | Android | iOS (free)
3
SRWare Iron Browser
If you are a Google Chrome user, SRWare Iron will be familiar; It is based on the open-source Chromium project, so a lot of visuals on the screen look very similar.
The main difference between Chrome and SRWare Iron is data protection. Experts have criticized Chrome for its reliance on a “Unique User ID”; every time you start a session, Google is notified of your data usage. SRWare removes the use of an ID along with other Chrome privacy issues, such as search suggestions. It makes SRWare Iron a great secret web browser.
|
Pros |
cons |
|---|---|
|
Remove privacy invasive features found in Google Chrome. |
It depends on Chromium updates for security patches. |
|
It offers a familiar browsing experience for Chrome users. |
Potential data collection by third-party extensions. |
|
Supports Chrome extensions and apps. |
Download: SRWare Iron in order Windows / Mac | Android (free)
4
Comodo Dragon Browser
Comodo is nowhere near Tor Browser, but it has some built-in tools that make web browsing a safer experience.
For starters, this private web browser will automatically block all tracking, cookies and web spies. It comes with built-in domain validation technology that will instantly segregate strong and weak SSL certificates, and uses the Comodo antivirus suite to protect you from ransomware, viruses, and other attack vectors.
Like SRWare Iron, it is based on Chromium, so it will be an easy switch for many people. It has two versions – one that looks like Chrome and one that looks like Firefox. Choose the one you are most used to.
|
Pros |
cons |
|---|---|
|
It uses Comodo’s security technologies for enhanced protection. |
Limited customization options compared to other browsers. |
|
Emphasize SSL certificate verification for safe browsing. |
|
|
Supports Chrome extensions and apps. |
Download: Comodo Dragon Browser for Windows (free)
5
Brave Browser
Brave Browser is another the best browsers with a simple interface. It stands out for focusing on privacy and speed. Brave blocks unwanted ads and trackers by default, reducing the amount of data websites collect about users. It also offers features like HTTPS Everywhere and script blocking to enhance privacy and security.
Additionally, the browser includes Brave Rewards, which allows you to opt out of seeing privacy-friendly ads and earn cryptocurrency rewards. However, Brave’s approach to advertising has received mixed reviews from users and the industry.
|
Pros |
cons |
|---|---|
|
Default ad and tracker blocking for enhanced privacy. |
Controversial approach to advertising and revenue generation. |
|
Enhanced privacy and security features, such as HTTPS Everywhere. |
Smaller user base compared to mainstream browsers. |
|
The Brave Rewards program to earn cryptocurrency. |
Download: Brave Browser for Windows | Mac | Android | iOS (free)
6
DuckDuckGo
DuckDuckGo has cemented its reputation as one of the go-to browsers for privacy-conscious people, as it comes loaded with a variety of privacy features.
The browser blocks third-party cookies, tracking ads and cookie consent pop-ups and uses its privacy-friendly search engine to search for content on the web. It also provides a special email forwarding service that automatically blocks email trackers. Like other browsers, there are the pros and cons of using DuckDuckGo.
|
Pros |
cons |
|---|---|
|
Privacy features are set by default. |
It does not support extensions. |
|
User-friendly interface. |
He had a deal with Microsoft in the past not to block the company’s trackers. |
|
Includes a service to block email trackers. |
Download: DuckDuckGo for Windows | Mac | Android | iOS (free)
As online privacy concerns continue to grow, it is surprisingly difficult to find a truly free and anonymous browser that focuses on your anonymity and security as primary features. The six browsers are some of the best private browsers. Each browser has its own unique advantages and potential disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs.
