If you’re big on online security, chances are you use a VPN. You may also want to use the Tor browser to give your security an extra boost, but do these two technologies clash? Can you use the Tor browser with a VPN, and if so, which providers allow it?
Should You Use the Tor Browser With a VPN?
The Tor browser, i.e. onion routing,isn’t the fastest or most feature-dense browser out there today. Most internet users flock to Chrome or Safari for their browsing, and often never run into issues. So, why bother with Tor at all?
Tor may not be the snazziest or most famous browser, but it is renowned for its security. Using an array of technologies, such as onion routing and multi-layer encryption, Tor allows its users to stay anonymous and safe while browsing the web.
But what if you’re particularly concerned about your online safety? Maybe you’ve been scarred by cybercrime in the past, or you’re aware of just how many online threats are out there now. Can you double down on your security and privacy even if you’re already using Tor?
Bycombining Tor with a VPN, there are pros and cons that you may encounter. The most obvious pro is that you’re that much safer online, with Tor and your VPN encrypting valuable data.
Because Tor doesn’t encrypt all user data, it’s also wise to have an active VPN working to fill in any cracks. Like a VPN, Tor can encrypt your online activity and mask your IP, but it can’t block entry and exit node tracking. This means that your activity and personal information could be exposed to your ISP in certain scenarios.
But using Tor with a VPN isn’t all plain sailing. Employingmultiple encryption protocolsvia two separate methods will likely lead to slower connection times.
Using a VPN alone can cause loading delays, as your data needs to be sent to a remote server and encrypted before it reaches your ISP. Add Tor’s encryption on top of this, and you may be in for a frustratingly time-consuming online experience.
Can You Access the Tor Browser Without a VPN?
Despite having a focus on security and privacy, the Tor browser has no affiliation with VPN providers, nor does it require you to have a VPN active to use it.
So, if you’re looking for an added layer of safety, but aren’t a fan of VPNs, Tor could be perfect for you.
Which VPNs Allow Tor Access?
There aren’t any well-known, established VPN providers that don’t allow users to access Tor. So, in short, you don’t need to worry about your VPN provider blocking you from the Tor browser.
However, there are some VPN providers that are known to be handy when using Tor, or whenbrowsing the deep and dark web. People commonly use Tor to access the deeper realms of the internet. If this is something you want to do, it may be worth having a strong VPN in place to keep you safe.
Examples of such VPN providers include:
These VPN programs give users the best VPN security possible, meaning they won’t fall into the wrong hands while using Tor or scouring the dark web. It may be tempting to use a free VPN when accessing shadier or less secure websites, but these services often come with lackluster security features.
