How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in GNU IceCat Browser

GNU IceCat, a Firefox-based browser from the GNU Project, is designed with privacy in mind, removing tracking and telemetry features. Although it doesn’t have native Tor support, you can increase your search privacy by configuring a Tor-compatible search engine like DuckDuckGo’s .onion site. This guide will show you how to set up a Tor-friendly search engine as your default in GNU IceCat for secure and private searching.

Why Use a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in GNU IceCat?

Setting a Tor-compatible search engine as the default in GNU IceCat keeps your search queries within the secure Tor network. Using a search engine like DuckDuckGo’s .onion version helps prevent tracking and enhances privacy, giving you an additional layer of anonymity in a trusted, open-source browser.

Step-by-Step Guide to Set a Tor-Compatible Search Engine as Your Default in GNU IceCat

To configure a Tor-compatible search engine in GNU IceCat, you’ll need the .onion address of your preferred search engine, such as DuckDuckGo’s .onion site.

Step 1: Access GNU IceCat Settings

• Open GNU IceCat: Launch GNU IceCat from your applications menu.
• Go to Preferences: In the upper-right corner, click on the menu icon (three horizontal lines) and select “Preferences.”

Step 2: Add a Tor-Compatible Search Engine

• Navigate to Search Engine Settings: Scroll down to the “Search” section within Preferences.
• Manage Search Engines: Click on “Find more search engines” or “Manage search engines” to view the list of available options.
• Add DuckDuckGo’s .onion URL:
  • Click “Add” and enter the following information:
    • Search Engine Name: DuckDuckGo (Tor)
    • Keyword: ddg-tor
    • URL with %s in place of query: https://3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion/?q=%s
  • Click “Add” to save it as an available search engine in GNU IceCat.

Step 3: Set the Tor-Compatible Search Engine as Default

• Set Default Search Engine: Return to the main “Search” settings section and, from the dropdown list, select “DuckDuckGo (Tor)” as your default search engine.
• Confirm Changes: GNU IceCat will now use DuckDuckGo’s .onion search engine for all queries made in the address bar, ensuring private searches within the Tor network.

Testing the Default Search Engine in GNU IceCat

Once you’ve configured GNU IceCat to use a Tor-compatible search engine, it’s helpful to test your setup.

• Enter a Search Query: TType a search term directly into GNU IceCat’s address bar.
• Verify the .onion Address: The search results should load on DuckDuckGo’s .onion page (3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion), confirming that the setup is working as intended.

Important Tips for Using a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in GNU IceCat

Using a Tor-compatible search engine in GNU IceCat improves privacy, but here are some important considerations:

• Consider Additional Tor Proxy: For full Tor functionality, you might consider configuring a Tor proxy for GNU IceCat.
• Use Verified .onion URLs: Ensure you’re using the correct .onion URL for any search engine to prevent phishing.
• Possible Slowdown: Tor-based search engines may load slower due to the Tor network’s multiple layers of encryption.

By configuring GNU IceCat with a Tor-compatible search engine, you maximize search privacy, creating a more secure environment for anonymous browsing.

Feeling let down by your browser while using Tor? Check out this alternative—it might exceed your expectations. How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Tails OS Browser.