How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Waterfox Browser

Waterfox is a customizable, privacy-focused Firefox fork that provides users with control over their browsing experience. While it doesn’t have built-in Tor support, you can configure Waterfox to route search queries through a Tor-compatible search engine like DuckDuckGo’s .onion version. This guide will show you how to set up a Tor-friendly search engine as the default in Waterfox for secure, anonymous searches.

Why Use a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in Waterfox?

Configuring a Tor-compatible search engine as your default in Waterfox allows you to protect search queries from tracking and enhance privacy. Using DuckDuckGo’s .onion version, for example, ensures your searches remain within the secure Tor network, adding an extra layer of anonymity to your browsing.

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

To configure a Tor-friendly search engine in Waterfox, you’ll need the .onion address of your chosen search engine, such as DuckDuckGo’s .onion version.

Step 1: Access Waterfox Settings

• Open Waterfox: Launch Waterfox 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 Settings: Scroll down to find the “Search” section within Preferences.
• Manage Search Engines: Click on “Find more search engines” or “Manage search engines” to view and modify available options.
• Add DuckDuckGo’s .onion URL Manually:
  • Click “Add” and enter the following information:
    • Search Engine Name: DuckDuckGo (Tor)
    • Search URL: https://3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion/?q=%s
• Click “Add” to save it as an option in Waterfox.

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

• Select 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: Waterfox will now use DuckDuckGo’s .onion search engine for all queries made in the address bar, routing them through Tor’s secure network.

Testing the Default Search Engine in Waterfox

After setting up Waterfox to use a Tor-compatible search engine, test your configuration to ensure everything is working correctly.

• Enter a Search Query: Type a query directly into Waterfox’s address bar.
• Verify the .onion Address: The search should load on DuckDuckGo’s .onion page (3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion), confirming that your search queries are going through the Tor network.

Important Tips for Using a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in Waterfox

Using a Tor-friendly search engine in Waterfox improves privacy, but here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Manual Tor Proxy: Consider configuring a Tor proxy for full anonymity in Waterfox if desired.
• Use Verified .onion URLs: Only use trusted .onion addresses to avoid phishing risks.
• Search Performance: Routing through Tor can slow down search speeds, especially for .onion sites.

By configuring Waterfox with a Tor-compatible search engine, you enhance your search privacy, creating a more secure browsing experience while using the Tor network.

Is your current browser falling short for Tor? This alternative might offer the reliability and features you’re looking for. How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Librewolf Browser.