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

Tor Browser, built specifically for secure and anonymous browsing on the Tor network, is a popular choice for those who prioritize privacy. While it defaults to privacy-conscious search engines, some users may want to ensure that every search query goes through the Tor network’s enhanced privacy layer. This guide will show you how to configure Tor Browser to use a Tor-friendly search engine, like DuckDuckGo’s .onion version, as your default search.

Why Use Tor-Friendly Search Engines in Tor Browser?

Configuring a Tor-compatible search engine as your default in Tor Browser helps protect your privacy on multiple levels. Tor-friendly search engines are optimized for anonymous browsing, with additional protections against tracking. By setting a .onion version of a search engine like DuckDuckGo, you ensure your search queries remain private, reducing the risk of tracking and data leaks.

Step-by-Step Guide to Set Tor Search as Your Default in Tor Browser

To configure a Tor-friendly search engine in Tor Browser, you’ll need the .onion address of your preferred search engine. DuckDuckGo’s .onion site, for example, is a popular choice for Tor users. Here’s how to set it up.

Step 1: Access Tor Browser Settings

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

Step 2: Add a Tor-Friendly Search Engine

• Navigate to Search Settings: Scroll down to the “Search” section in Preferences.
• Manage Search Engines: Click on “Manage Search Engines…” to view the list of available search engines.
• Add DuckDuckGo .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 it.

Step 3: Set Tor-Friendly Search Engine as Default

• Set Default Search Engine: Return to the main “Search” settings section. From the drop-down list of search engines, select “DuckDuckGo (Tor)” as your default.
• Confirm Changes: Your search settings will now route all searches through DuckDuckGo’s .onion site, keeping searches within Tor’s privacy-focused network.

Testing the Default Search Engine in Tor Browser

Once configured, it’s helpful to test your setup to ensure searches are routed through the .onion version of DuckDuckGo.

• Open a New Tab: Type a search query in the search bar.
• Verify Search Engine: The query should load results on DuckDuckGo’s .onion page (3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion), confirming the setup.

Important Tips for Using Tor-Friendly Search Engines in Tor Browser

Using a .onion search engine in Tor Browser enhances privacy, but here are some important considerations:

• Reduced Tracking: Tor-compatible search engines are designed to avoid tracking, providing an extra layer of privacy for your search queries.
• Slow Performance: Some .onion sites may load more slowly due to Tor’s network routing.
• Check URLs: Always ensure you’re using a trusted .onion URL from the search engine’s official website or documentation.

By setting a Tor-friendly search engine as your default in Tor Browser, you’re reinforcing privacy protections, ensuring that all search queries remain secure and anonymous.

Not thrilled with your current browser for using Tor? Explore this alternative—it might just be the robust solution you’ve been searching for. How to Configure Tor as Your Default Search Engine in Brave Browser