The Dark Web, accessible only through browsers like Tor, is a hidden part of the internet. It hosts forums, privacy tools, and marketplaces. Here is a selection of useful resources to explore it carefully.
Getting started with the Tor browser
To access .onion sites, you first need to download the Tor browser, which allows you to access this unindexed part of the regular web.
Sites accessible from a regular browser (clear web)
Dark.fail
Dark.fail lists the real .onion addresses of popular services (messaging apps, forums, etc.) with a clear interface.
Ahmia
Ahmia is a search engine specialized in dark web sites. It can be browsed with a regular browser, though some results are only accessible via .onion.
Darknetlive
Darknetlive provides news about the dark web, market closures, and law enforcement operations. It’s also a reliable source for updated links.
VPN Overview
VPN Overview has published a selection of dark web sites worth visiting, organized by category (security, forums, resources).
Darknet Tor
Darknet Tor is a French-language blog listing the best .onion addresses in 2024.
GitHub – Cassiano-dio
DeepWeb Links is a GitHub repository referencing over a hundred hidden services (forums, tools, etc.).
Wikipedia
List of hidden services (Wikipedia): a Wikipedia page listing the most well-known Tor addresses and their function.
DTech Club
DTech Club has published a detailed directory of the most popular darknet sites, along with some security tips.
Culte du Code
Culte du Code offers a selection of .onion addresses organized by use: tools, hosting, forums, etc.
GitHub – ajvb
Awesome Tor is a collaborative collection of useful resources related to Tor and the dark web (addresses, tools, articles, etc.).
Sites accessible only through Tor (.onion)
The Hidden Wiki
The Hidden Wiki is a well-known directory of .onion sites, organized by topic. Caution: not all links are safe.
Not Evil
Not Evil is a Google-style search engine for the dark web.
Phobos
Phobos is a directory organized into simple and efficient categories.
TorLinks
TorLinks is another minimalist directory with categorized links (forums, encrypted mail, various services).
Security tips before exploring
Use a VPN in addition to Tor
A VPN masks your IP address from the start, adding an extra layer of protection.
Disable JavaScript
Some scripts can be used to track you or exploit security flaws. Make sure it’s disabled in Tor.
Stay cautious
Do not download anything. Never reveal your identity. Some sites may contain illegal content or attempt to scam you.
Explanatory video about the dark web
Conclusion
The dark web is a separate universe, neither inherently good nor bad. It can be used to protect privacy or communicate without censorship, but it is also used for illegal purposes. With resources like Ahmia, Dark.fail, or The Hidden Wiki, you can explore this space while minimizing risks. Stay cautious, and use the right tools.