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

Librewolf, a privacy-focused Firefox fork, comes pre-configured to block trackers, telemetry, and unwanted ads. Although it doesn’t have native Tor integration, you can enhance its privacy by configuring a Tor-compatible search engine, such as DuckDuckGo’s .onion version. This guide will show you how to set a Tor-friendly search engine as your default in Librewolf for secure and anonymous browsing.

Why Use a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in Librewolf?

Configuring a Tor-compatible search engine as the default in Librewolf improves your search privacy by keeping queries within the Tor network. Using DuckDuckGo’s .onion version, for instance, allows you to avoid tracking while keeping your searches secure, which is ideal for users seeking maximum privacy within a familiar browser interface.

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

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

Step 1: Access Librewolf Settings

• Open Librewolf: Launch Librewolf 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 the “Search” section within Preferences.
• Manage Search Engines: Click on “Find more search engines” or “Manage search engines” to see the list of available options.
• Add DuckDuckGo’s .onion URL:
  • Click “Add” and enter the following information:
    • Search Engine Name: DuckDuckGo (Tor)
    • Search URI: https://3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion/?q=%s
  • Click “Add” to save it as an available search engine in Librewolf.

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: Librewolf will now use DuckDuckGo’s .onion site as the primary search engine, keeping your queries private and secure within the Tor network.

Testing the Default Search Engine in Librewolf

After setting up Librewolf to use a Tor-compatible search engine, it’s essential to test the setup.

• Enter a Search Query: Type a search term directly into Librewolf’s address bar.
• Verify the .onion Address: The search results should load on DuckDuckGo’s .onion page (3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion), confirming that the configuration is working.

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

Using a Tor-compatible search engine in Librewolf enhances privacy, but here are some helpful considerations:

• Consider Tor Proxy: For full Tor privacy, consider configuring Librewolf to use a Tor proxy for all traffic.
• Use Verified .onion URLs: Only use official .onion addresses from trusted sources to avoid phishing risks.
• Anticipate Slower Load Times: Routing through Tor may slow down searches, particularly when using .onion sites.

By setting up Librewolf with a Tor-compatible search engine, you increase search privacy, creating a more secure browsing experience while using the Tor network.

Looking for a better way to use Tor? Your current browser might not be the best option—give this one a try! How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in GNU IceCat Browser.