Looking for a free, completely private web browser?
Using a web browser that can’t be tracked 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 make surfing the internet (almost) anonymous:
1. Tor Browser
The Onion Network used by Tor has a simple goal: anonymous browsing. It is the best private web browser available and the best browser for accessing the dark web. The network aims to protect a user’s location, browser history, personal data, and online messages from any person or bot that analyzes network traffic.
To access the Onion Network, you need to use the Tor browser. It is so secure 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’s log. It is available for all major operating systems, such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux.
There are, however, a few drawbacks to using the Tor browser. For most users, the biggest issue is speed. Because traffic using the Tor network relays takes such a circuitous route to reach its destination, your browsing experience won’t be as fast. If you have a good connection, this mode of operation may not be a problem, but if your internet connection is slow, Tor can become an extremely frustrating experience.
Advantages
- Solid anonymity and privacy features.
- Layered encryption for enhanced security.
- The ability to access the dark web and blocked websites.
disadvantage
- Slower browsing speeds due to multiple relays used for connection.
- Potential compatibility issues with certain websites.
2. Epic Browser
Epic Browser doesn’t use a specialized Onion Network, but it immediately disables many of the most common ways your privacy is compromised when browsing the internet.
For example, this free private browser doesn’t save your browsing history; there’s no DNS fetching; it doesn’t allow third-party cookies; there’s no web or DNS caching; and there’s no autofill feature.
The browser automatically deletes any associated databases, preferences, pepper data, and cookies from Flash and Silverlight when you close your session.
Epic Browser will also protect you from scams and newer malware, such as fingerprint scanners, crypto mining, ultrasonic beacons, and more. It is available for all popular operating systems.
Advantages
- Robust privacy features, including ad and tracker blocking.
- Encrypted proxy for additional anonymity.
- User-friendly interface for a seamless browsing experience.
disadvantage
- Limited support for extensions compared to more popular browsers.
- Smaller user base, which may lead to more limited technical support.
3. SRWare Iron Browser
If you’re a Google Chrome user, SRWare Iron will be familiar to you; it’s based on the open-source Chromium project, so the look and feel of the browser will be similar.
The main difference between Chrome and SRWare Iron is data protection. Experts have criticized Chrome for relying on a “unique user ID”; every time you start a session, Google is alerted about the use of your data. SRWare excludes the use of an ID along with other Chrome privacy concerns, such as search suggestions. These features make SRWare Iron an excellent web browser when it comes to privacy.
Advantages
- Removes privacy-invading features found in Google Chrome.
- It provides a familiar browsing experience for Chrome users.
- Supports Chrome extensions and apps.
disadvantage
- It depends on Chromium updates for security fixes.
- Potential for data collection by third-party extensions.
4. Comodo Dragon Browser
Comodo doesn’t come close to Tor Browser in terms of privacy, but it has some built-in tools that will make browsing the web 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 separate strong and weak SSL certificates, and it uses the Comodo antivirus suite to protect you from ransomware, viruses, and other cyberattack methods.
Like SRWare Iron, Comodo Dragon is based on Chromium, so the transition will be easy for many users. It comes in two versions: one that offers a similar look and feel to Chrome, and one that looks like Firefox. Choose the one you’re familiar with.
Advantages
- Uses Comodo security technologies for enhanced protection.
- Emphasize checking the SSL certificate for secure browsing.
- Supports Chrome extensions and apps.
disadvantage
- Limited customization options compared to other browsers.
5. Brave Browser
Brave Browser is one of the best private browsers and has an easy-to-use interface. It stands out for both 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 improve privacy and security.
Additionally, the browser includes Brave Rewards, which allows you to opt out of viewing privacy-friendly ads and earn cryptocurrency rewards (this feature is not yet available in Romania). However, Brave’s approach to advertising has received mixed reviews from users and the industry.
Advantages
- Default ad and tracker blocking for improved privacy .
- Enhanced privacy and security features, such as HTTPS Everywhere.
- Brave Rewards program for cryptocurrency earnings.
disadvantage
- Controversial approach to advertising and revenue generation.
- Smaller user base compared to established browsers.
6. DuckDuckGo Browser
DuckDuckGo has solidified its reputation as one of the preferred browsers and search engines for privacy-conscious individuals because it is loaded with a variety of privacy features.
The browser blocks third-party cookies, tracking ads, and cookie consent pop-ups, and uses its own private and efficient search engine. It also offers a special email forwarding service that automatically blocks email trackers. Like other browsers, it offers both advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages
- Privacy features are set by default.
- Easy to use interface.
- Includes a service to block email trackers.
disadvantage
- It does not support extensions.
- It had an agreement with Microsoft in the past not to block the company’s trackers.
7. LibreWolf Browser
A largely community-driven project, practically an independent version of Firefox, with user privacy, security, and freedom as its main goals.
LibreWolf is designed to increase protection against tracking and fingerprinting techniques, while also including some security improvements. This is achieved through privacy and security-oriented settings and fixes. LibreWolf also aims to eliminate telemetry, data collection, and other annoying features, as well as disable anti-freedom features like DRM.
Advantages
- No telemetry, no experiments, adware, or unnecessary distractions.
- Search engines that respect user privacy: DuckDuckGo, Searx, Qwant and many others.
- The uBlock Origin spam blocking app is already included
- Built on the latest stable Firefox version, for updated security and features along with stability.
disadvantage
- LibreWolf’s enhanced privacy settings may block essential functionalities of some websites.
- Unlike Firefox, it has a less customizable interface, and some users find it difficult to adjust settings to suit specific websites.
- Lack of features like sandboxing and site isolation, security measures offered by other browsers.
As concerns about online privacy continue to grow, it’s surprisingly difficult to find a truly free, private browser that focuses on user anonymity and security. Each of the seven browsers listed has its own unique advantages and potential disadvantages, and the choice ultimately comes down to individual preferences and needs.
