How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox, known for its strong privacy features and customizability, can be configured to route searches through a Tor-compatible search engine. Although Firefox doesn’t have native Tor integration, you can manually configure it with a Tor-friendly search engine, such as DuckDuckGo’s .onion site, for added privacy. This guide will show you how to set up a Tor-compatible search engine as your default in Firefox for secure and anonymous searching.

Why Use a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in Firefox?

Setting a Tor-compatible search engine as the default in Firefox ensures that your search queries are protected within the Tor network, adding an extra layer of privacy to your online activities. By configuring Firefox to use DuckDuckGo’s .onion version, for instance, you prevent tracking and increase anonymity while browsing on a familiar, user-friendly interface.

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

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

Step 1: Access Firefox Settings

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

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” to access Firefox’s list of available search engines. Alternatively, you can manually add the .onion search engine.
• Add DuckDuckGo’s .onion URL:
  • Click “Add” in the search engine settings and enter the following:
    • Search Engine Name: DuckDuckGo (Tor)
    • Search URI: https://3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion/?q=%s
  • Click “Add” to save it as an available search option.

Step 3: Set the Tor-Friendly 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: Firefox will now use DuckDuckGo’s .onion site for all search queries entered in the address bar, keeping your searches secure within the Tor network.

Testing the Default Search Engine in Firefox

To confirm that your Tor-compatible search engine is set up correctly, test it by performing a search in Firefox.

• Enter a Search Query: : Type a query into Firefox’s address bar and press Enter.
• Verify the .onion Address: The search results should load on DuckDuckGo’s .onion site (3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion), confirming that the setup is complete.

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

Using a Tor-compatible search engine in Firefox boosts privacy, but here are some additional tips:

• Manual Tor Proxy Configuration: For added security, consider configuring Firefox to use Tor as a proxy.
• Use Verified .onion Addresses: Ensure you’re using the correct .onion URL for trusted search engines to prevent phishing.
• Potential Slowdown: Some .onion sites may load more slowly due to Tor’s network routing, especially for search-heavy queries.

By setting a Tor-compatible search engine in Firefox, you combine Firefox’s privacy features with Tor’s anonymity, offering a secure way to browse and search online.

Dissatisfied with how your browser handles Tor? This alternative might deliver the performance and features you’ve been missing. How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Orfox Browser.