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How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Tails OS Browser

How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Tails OS Browser

Tails OS, a live operating system designed for privacy, comes with Tor Browser pre-installed and pre-configured to route all traffic through the Tor network. Although Tor Browser on Tails is already highly secure, you can further enhance your privacy by configuring a Tor-compatible search engine, such as DuckDuckGo’s .onion site, as the default search engine.

Why Use a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in Tails OS?

Setting a Tor-compatible search engine as the default in Tails OS ensures that your search queries remain within the privacy-focused Tor network. Using a search engine like DuckDuckGo’s .onion version helps prevent tracking and provides additional security, making it an ideal option for users who need the highest level of anonymity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Set a Tor-Compatible Search Engine as Your Default in Tails OS Browser

Tails OS uses the Tor Browser, which is already optimized for Tor. Here’s how to configure it to use a Tor-friendly search engine like DuckDuckGo’s .onion site.

Step 1: Open Tor Browser in Tails OS

  • Boot into Tails OS: Start Tails OS by booting it from your USB drive.
  • Open Tor Browser: Click on the Tor Browser icon on the Tails OS desktop to launch it.

Step 2: Access Tor Browser Settings

  • Go to Preferences: In the Tor Browser window, click on the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the upper-right corner and select “Preferences.”
  • Navigate to Search Settings: Scroll down to the “Search” section within Preferences.

Step 3: Add a Tor-Compatible Search Engine

  • Manage Search Engines: Click on “Manage Search Engines” to see the list of available options.
  • Add DuckDuckGo’s .onion URL::
    • Click “Add” and enter the following details:
      • Search Engine Name: DuckDuckGo (Tor)
      • Search URL: https://3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion/?q=%s
  • Click “Add” to save DuckDuckGo’s .onion as a search option in Tor Browser on Tails OS.

Step 4: Set the Tor-Compatible Search Engine as Default

  • Select Default Search Engine: Return to the main “Search” settings section, and from the dropdown list, choose “DuckDuckGo (Tor)” as your default search engine.
  • Confirm Changes: Tor Browser in Tails OS will now route all search queries through DuckDuckGo’s .onion search engine.

Testing the Default Search Engine in Tails OS Browser

After configuring Tor Browser in Tails OS with a Tor-compatible search engine, it’s a good idea to test the setup.

  • Enter a Search Query: Type a query directly into Tor Browser’s address bar.
  • The search results should appear on DuckDuckGo’s .onion page (3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion), confirming that your search engine setup is functioning correctly.

Important Tips for Using a Tor-Compatible Search Engine in Tails OS

Using a Tor-compatible search engine in Tails OS enhances privacy, but here are some points to consider:

  • Complete Anonymity: Tails OS is designed for total privacy, so using a Tor-compatible search engine aligns well with Tails’ security goals.
  • Use Only Verified .onion URLs: Ensure the .onion addresses are official to avoid phishing.
  • Expect Slower Search Speeds: Searches may load slower due to Tor’s multiple encryption layers.

By configuring Tails OS Browser with a Tor-compatible search engine, you reinforce Tails’ privacy-focused environment, keeping searches anonymous and secure.

Is your browser holding you back on Tor? Discover this contender—it could revolutionize your browsing experience. How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Ungoogled Chromium.