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

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

Orfox was a popular privacy-focused browser for Android, designed specifically to connect to the Tor network. Although it has been replaced by the official Tor Browser for Android, many users still appreciate Orfox’s simplicity and Tor integration. By setting a Tor-compatible search engine, like DuckDuckGo’s .onion site, as the default in Orfox, you can enhance your privacy and ensure that all search queries remain secure and anonymous.

Why Use a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in Orfox?

Setting a Tor-compatible search engine as the default in Orfox adds an extra layer of privacy by routing search queries through the Tor network. With a Tor-friendly search engine, such as DuckDuckGo’s .onion version, you can avoid tracking and retain privacy within Orfox’s secure environment.

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

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

Step 1: Open Orfox Settings

  • Open Orfox: Launch the Orfox browser on your Android device.
  • Go to Settings: Tap on the three-dot menu icon in the upper-right corner and select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.

Step 2: Add a Tor-Compatible Search Engine

  • Navigate to Search Engine Settings: Scroll to find the “Search” section within Orfox’s settings.
  • Add DuckDuckGo’s .onion URL:
    • Tap on “Manage Search Engines” and select “Add” to input a new search engine.
    • Enter the following details:
      • Search Engine Name: DuckDuckGo (Tor)
      • Search URL: https://3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion/?q=%s
    • Tap “Save” to add DuckDuckGo’s .onion search engine to the list.

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

  • Select Default Search Engine: Return to the main “Search” settings section and choose “DuckDuckGo (Tor)” from the list to set it as your default search engine.
  • Confirm Changes: Orfox will now route all search queries through DuckDuckGo’s .onion site, keeping your searches within the privacy of the Tor network.

Testing the Default Search Engine in Orfox

After setting up a Tor-compatible search engine in Orfox, it’s essential to test the configuration.

  • Enter a Search Query: Type a search term directly into the Orfox address bar and hit Enter.
  • Verify Onion Site: The search results should appear on DuckDuckGo’s .onion page (3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion), confirming that your search is using the Tor network.

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

Using a Tor-compatible search engine in Orfox provides additional privacy, but here are some key points to remember:

  • Orfox Dependency on Orbot: Ensure Orbot is running to maintain a connection to the Tor network.
  • Check for Verified .onion URLs: Only use confirmed .onion addresses to avoid phishing risks.
  • Potential Slowdown: Routing through Tor may slow down search performance, especially for .onion sites.

Setting a Tor-compatible search engine in Orfox enhances your privacy, keeping searches anonymous while using the Tor network on Android. How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Whonix Workstation.