TOR (short for The Onion Router), is another secure service very similar to the functionalities of a Virtual Private Network. The Onion network encrypts data between many layers, which is why the name fits perfectly. However, if compared to a VPN, TOR is an open-source free service, which is voluntarily provided by a large number of servers over one network.
So, what is Onion Over VPN? Where does that come in? Onion Over VPN, allows you to enhance the TOR Network, while connected to a VPN server. In this way, neither your IP can be traced, nor can your activities be traced back to you.
How does Onion Over VPN work?
When a user utilizes the TOR network, all data is scattered within layers of nodes and carried to the next. If ever someone tries to intercept the data sent, they’ll only be able to look into one part of it, depending on who sent it last.
For instance, when you enter the TOR network, the entry node will only be able to see your IP address since it’s the point of access. The data sent to the last node will only be able to see the website you entered and nothing else.
However, when you use Onion Over VPN, neither will the entry node or last node trace anything back to you. This is because the TOR network routes all traffic through a secure VPN server.
Who uses Onion Over VPN?
- Those who require an extra layer of security over VPN protection, utilize Onion Over VPN. It allows the user to access bigger and censored websites through extra layers of encryption. Most people living in or traveling to strict or oppressed regions utilize it.
- Users interested in only viewing extremely private or restricted content, like for instance on the Dark Web, use Onion over VPN.
- There are chances for a TOR node to be compromised, and this is one of the main reasons why most users opt for Onion Over VPN. So even if one node is infiltrated, no data will be identified since it passes through double encryption.
- For safer passage online, and to protect identities, most political or governmental bodies and journalists use Onion Over VPN.
Is it safe to use TOR?
Yes, and no. Generally speaking, TOR is often used to create a secure and encrypted passageway, however, it wouldn’t be called a 100% safe. Here’s why:
- Most TOR users, utilize this free service mainly to enter the realms of platforms like the Dark Web. Some users make safe use of it, while others use it for criminal or unorthodox purposes, which is against the law. TOR might be safe to an extent, but it’s still not the safest! So, use it wisely!
- There are circumstances where you might use TOR to log into a social media platform or any other service that requires your email and password. If you’ve logged into those services before, and do so while using TOR, these accounts can automatically add a backlash to your anonymity.
- If TOR was a 100% safe, users wouldn’t prefer VPN services over it. Nothing is completely secure, and it’s a fact that TOR had its fair share of vulnerabilities. However, for a free open-source tool, that’s as good as it gets.
- Not all TOR nodes are safe. TOR runs by multiple users creating various nodes. These can be also secretly created by large surveillance bodies. All information passed through those nodes could cause further risks.
Is there a downside to using TOR?
Even though TOR provides an opportunity for users to experience limited privacy over the internet, there are a few downsides to it. The speeds are drastically slowed down due to the multiple and external servers used. This is why people often prefer using the best VPN, which is way faster. Using a VPN with TOR won’t increase the speeds either.
What are the best VPN services to use with TOR?
There aren’t many VPN providers that offer the best features, and using one with TOR demands extra attention to certain areas. The best VPNs to use with TOR include:
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