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

Konqueror is a versatile, open-source browser developed by KDE that can be configured for a more private browsing experience. While it doesn’t have built-in Tor support, you can still set a Tor-compatible search engine, like DuckDuckGo’s .onion site, as your default search engine in Konqueror. This guide will show you how to configure Konqueror to use a Tor-compatible search engine for anonymous searching.

Why Use a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in Konqueror?

Setting a Tor-compatible search engine as the default in Konqueror enhances your privacy by keeping your searches within the Tor network. By configuring Konqueror to use DuckDuckGo’s .onion version, you’ll add a layer of security to your searches, helping protect against tracking and ensuring anonymous searches within this flexible browser.

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

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

Step 1: Open Konqueror Settings

• Launch Konqueror: Open Konqueror from your applications menu.
• Access Settings: Go to the “Settings” menu and select “Configure Konqueror.”

Step 2: Add a Tor-Compatible Search Engine

• Navigate to Web Shortcuts: In the Konqueror configuration menu, click on “Web Shortcuts” under the “Web Browsing” section.
• Add DuckDuckGo’s .onion URL:
  • Click “New…” to create a new search engine.
  • Enter the following details:
    • Search Provider Name: DuckDuckGo (Tor)
    • Search URI: https://3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion/?q=\{@}
    • Shortcut: duckgo-tor
  • Click “OK” to save DuckDuckGo’s .onion search engine.

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

• Enable DuckDuckGo (Tor): In the Web Shortcuts menu, locate “DuckDuckGo (Tor)” and ensure it’s checked to enable it as a search provider.
• Confirm Changes: DuckDuckGo’s .onion search engine is now set up in Konqueror, allowing you to search privately.

Testing the Default Search Engine in Konqueror

After configuring Konqueror to use a Tor-compatible search engine, it’s helpful to test the setup.

• Enter a Search Query: Type duckgo-tor: directly into the Konqueror address bar.
• Verify the .onion Address: The search results should appear on DuckDuckGo’s .onion page (3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion), confirming the configuration.

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

Using a Tor-compatible search engine in Konqueror provides additional privacy, but consider these tips for a better experience:

• Manual Proxy Settings: To fully route Konqueror traffic through Tor, consider configuring it with a Tor proxy in addition to setting up a Tor-friendly search engine.
• Verified .onion URLs: Ensure that the .onion URLs you use are legitimate to prevent phishing risks.
• Potential for Slower Searches: Searches on .onion sites may load more slowly due to Tor’s network routing.

By configuring Konqueror with a Tor-compatible search engine, you create a more private browsing environment, aligning with Konqueror’s customizability and open-source foundation.

Tired of compromises with your browser on Tor? Explore this alternative—it’s designed to meet your needs. How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Tor Browser.