Best VPNs for the Dark Web 2024 (Safe, Secure Access)

The dark web is dangerous but tempting, so you will want to protect yourself before jumping in. This article will give you an overview of best dark web VPNs and how to set them up in combination with Tor. We'll also discuss things you should avoid doing while on the dark web.

The dark web is known as the underbelly of the Internet, where some questionable things take place. It consists of non-indexed websites that use onion links, which can’t be opened with your regular browser.

Instead, you will need to use a secure network such as the Tor network. The Tor network protects you by encrypting your internet data, giving you privacy. However, it doesn’t make you fully anonymous. Additionally, your internet service provider will still be aware that you are browsing the dark web.

Luckily, there is a way to improve your privacy and anonymity while using Tor. The answer lies in using a premium VPN service. However, not every VPN is suitable for the dark web, and choosing the wrong one can have serious consequences. This is why we took a lot of time to test various options to find the best VPN for the dark web. Here are our top recommendations:

1. NordVPN – Top dark web VPN with excellent speeds, large server network, and high-end security that's compatible with multiple devices (use our 74% off coupon)
2. Surfshark – A budget no-logs VPN with unlimited connections and great speeds.
3. ExpressVPN – Reliable and user-friendly VPN for the dark web.
4. IPVanish – Fast and consistent VPN service with strong cross-platform support.

If you are impatient, you can just follow this quick guide below. However, keep in mind that it misses a lot of useful details that we will mention in the in-depth guide a bit later in the article.

How to use a Dark Web VPN

1. Subscribe and install a premium VPN
   
   Our first choice would be NordVPN, which you can get for 74% off here.
2. Connect to a VPN server
   
   We recommend using a VPN server that is not too far from your real location.
3. Download Tor browser
4. Open the Tor browser…
   
   … and enter the .onion link of a website that you wish to visit. Make sure you only go to pages that are verified by a reliable source.
5. Begin using the dark web
   
   By combining Tor and VPN, your data will be encrypted two times. This will give you a very high level of protection. Additionally, the Tor network servers will not see your real IP address, and your ISP will not be able to see you are using Tor. It's a win-win situation.

How to find the best Dark Web VPN

We've decided to be extra careful when looking for a perfect VPN, as this can have serious consequences. Consider these features, in combination with Tor, the gold standard of staying protected on the dark web.

• Airtight security – We only chose services with military-grade AES encryption and advanced features like obfuscation and a kill switch. Every VPN on this list was also vetted for DNS, IP, and WebRTC leaks on IPv6 and IPv4 networks.
• Complete privacy – Top VPN choices for the dark web have servers that work only in RAM mode, keeping no logs of user activities. Basically, you will leave no digital trace.
• Anonymous Payment – For any transactions on the dark web, you’d want to use payment options like Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies to stay anonymous. All VPNs here accept such payment methods.
• Healthy server network – You want a service with hundreds of servers that you can instantly connect to at any time.
• Excellent speed – NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN use advanced VPN protocols that will give you the best performance.
• Affordable – Every service is reasonably priced in comparison to what it offers.
• Professional customer service – 24/7 live chat support will solve any problems you might encounter with their VPN app.

NordVPN – Best VPN for Dark Web

NordVPN is the safest and fastest VPN for the dark web, which makes it our first choice. It has 5,800 servers+ located in 60 countries. Based in Panama, which is an excellent jurisdiction for privacy, NordVPN operates as a fully no logs VPN service that has also passed third-party audits.

One of NordVPN's standout features is NordLynx. This is a superior version of the WireGuard VPN protocol and offers improved privacy along with slightly better speed. This was shown to us during our NordVPN vs ExpressVPN comparison where we have done a number of speed tests. We got the best performance by connecting to a Seattle server where we hit 750+ Mbps.

However, safety is much more important when dealing with the Darkweb. NordVPN doesn’t have any trouble in that department as well, as it uses advanced AES-256 encryption to protect the user data from leaking to hackers. It passed all of our VPN tests without any issues.

All of NordVPN's servers operate in RAM mode in compliance with the company's no-logs policy. This means that you will not leave any trace of your online activities. The app went through many successful independent audits. Most notably, VerSprite did a pen test that NordVPN easily passed, in addition to an infrastructure security audit.

Advanced features

• Onion-over-VPN – Servers that combine Tor network with NordVPN. This is the only VPN app on this list that offers this feature.
• Threat protection – Will scan your platform in real-time to block malware, trackers, pop-up ads, and stop any phishing attacks. (This is a VPN ad blocker that blocks a lot more than just ads.)
• Split tunneling – A feature that lets you control which apps can use VPN traffic. This can ramp up your security, which is particularly important on the dark web.
• Obfuscation – These servers will turn your VPN traffic into HTTPS, effectively camouflaging it so that your ISP doesn’t know that you are using a VPN. It will provide you with full anonymity, which is very important if you need a VPN for UAE or a VPN for China.
• Double VPN – Adds another layer of encryption to give you a safer browsing experience. 
• Kill Switch – If your connection is compromised, the Kill switch will protect your identity by turning off the Wi-Fi or exiting NordVPN (depending on your setup).
• Dedicated IP – Guarantees that you will get a fast and reliable connection. (The dedicated IP VPN option is a paid add-on.)

(opens in a new tab)”>See all NordVPN features here >

NordVPN also accepts cryptocurrencies, so you can buy it with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple. The app is available on many platforms, including Windows, Mac OS, smartphones, and Linux. Aside from the dark web, you can use NordVPN to unlock content on popular streaming sites. It is a great VPN for Disney Plus and also a reliable VPN for Netflix.

This VPN service is affordable, and with one subscription you will be able to connect six devices at the same time, which is on par with ExpressVPN and CyberGhost. Their professional support is available 24/7, and you can even get a refund in the first 30 days if it doesn't match your expectations.

This NordVPN overview should answer all of your remaining questions.

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Surfshark – A budget Dark Web VPN service

Surfshark proved that you can get a premium VPN service even if you are on a strict budget. It has 3,200+ servers around the world in 100 countries that you can use for accessing the dark web. All of them support advanced VPN protocols like IKEv2 and WireGuard.

NordLynx (with NordVPN) is slightly superior to WireGuard, which you can see in the NordVPN vs Surfshark speed tests. We did a number of speed tests to determine which one is faster and managed to achieve 752 Mbps when connected to the Seattle server with Surfshark below. Keep in mind that using a VPN like Surfshark can reduce your base speed from anywhere between 20 to 30%.

Surfshark is based in the Netherlands, which gives it the luxury of operating as a no-logs VPN service. Security is handled with 256-bit AES encryption, which is a gold standard in the world of VPNs. Surfshark was independently audited on three separate occasions, achieving great results. Specifically, Cure53 did a penetration test that showed very favorable results.

The company is also fully transparent with its users, which is evident from its warrant canary.

Surfshark premium features

• Smart DNS – Allows you to unlock streaming content on devices that don’t directly support VPN apps, like gaming consoles. However, it doesn’t provide encryption.
• Trust DNS – Surfshark’s lightweight browser extension.
• Camouflage mode (Obfuscated servers)
• Clean web – Neutralizes all sorts of threats that you can find on the dark web: intrusive ads, phishing attacks, malware, and trackers.
• Multi-hop(Double VPN)
• Kill Switch
• Split tunneling

See all Surfshark VPN features here >>

Surfshark has a minimalistic app that is welcoming to new users. You can also find it on every device that supports VPNs. Aside from its availability, Surfshark offers the best price-to-quality ratio on the market. A single subscription will let you hold unlimited simultaneous connections. This is not an offer that you see every day, and it clearly sets Surfshark apart as the best cheap VPN currently available.

You can also register completely anonymously by creating a disposable email and paying for VPN with a private and anonymous payment method, such as cryptocurrency. Their customer service is super-responsive and can be contacted 24/7 via live chat. There is also a 30-day refund guarantee that lets you try it out without commitment.

You can learn more about the service by checking our Surfshark VPN review.

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ExpressVPN – One of the most secure Dark Web VPNs

While it isn’t our first choice, ExpressVPN is a solid dark web VPN. It’s been on the market for over a decade, during which created a network of 3,000+ servers in 105 countries worldwide. These servers operate in RAM mode thanks to the TrustedServer technology.

ExpressVPN works on a Lightway VPN protocol. Lightway offers a 256-bit AES encryption, which was the subject of a successful pentest completed by Cure53. This is just one of a dozen of external audits that ExpressVPN has under its belt. It is easily among the most tested VPN apps on the market.

While its security is strong, it is a bit underwhelming in another department. In speed tests for the ExpressVPN vs Surfshark comparison, we found Surfshark (with WireGuard) was faster than ExpressVPN (with Lightway). That said, ExpressVPN still be CyberGhost handedly in the CyberGhost vs ExpressVPN comparison. Below is one of our speed tests with ExpressVPN still getting more than 300 Mbps download speeds.

ExpressVPN advanced tools

• Threat manager – Will protect your PC by blocking malware, trackers, and phishing attacks in real time.
• Device groups – Connect multiple platforms to different servers simultaneously.
• ExpressVPN browser extensions – Connect to ExpressVPN from Firefox, Edge, or Google Chrome. These extensions easily stops WebRTC leaks.
• Split tunneling 
• Smart DNS
• Network lock (Kill switch)

See all ExpressVPN features here >

ExpressVPN has a clear-cut interface that is very easy to navigate. Don’t worry if you are not tech-savvy, as there are a lot of how-to guides that you can access on their website.

The app is available on every modern device that supports VPNs. Unfortunately, it is a bit expensive, with prices starting from $6.67/month. ExpressVPN allows anonymous payment, so you don’t have to compromise your identity at any point. With one subscription you will be able to use it on 8 devices at the same time.

ExpressVPN also has a professional support team and a 30-day money-back guarantee that will let you test the app without committing. It basically works as a free trial VPN if you cancel the VPN within the refund window.

Find out more details in this ExpressVPN overview.

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IPVanish – A great dark web VPN service with fast speeds

IPVanish is another fast and highly secure dark Web VPN. It offers 2,000+ servers in over 50 countries and follows a strict no-logs policy, similar to NordVPN and ProtonVPN. While the service is located in the US, which is not an ideal privacy jurisdiction,  it offers plenty of advanced security features that made us want to include it on this list. As an audited no-logs VPN service, IPVanish is a great choice for privacy-conscious users.

IPVanish utilizes many advanced VPN protocols, such as WireGuard and OpenVPN. By connecting to a Seattle server, we have managed to almost hit 830 Mbps, which is seriously impressive. Although fast, we've concluded that this VPN is still outperformed by NordVPN in our  IPVanish vs NordVPN comparison article.

Aside from WireGuard, IPVanish also offers Scramble protocol, which provides obfuscated servers and improved security needed for accessing the dark Web. To conceal your outgoing data, this VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and a powerful kill switch.

IPVanish successfully went through many third-party audits. Most notably, Leviathan Security Group tested how well it implements its no-logs policy.

IPVanish extra features

• SOCKS5 proxy –  Gives you faster torrenting speed at the expense of encryption. Find out more about this feature in this Proxy vs VPN guide.
• Split tunneling
• Obfuscation
• IPv6 and DNS leak protection
• Kill switch

See all IPVanish features here >

This dark web VPN also has a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for beginners. IPVanish is available on nearly every modern device, including smartphones, computers, and tablets. You can also buy a pre-configured routers If you use a router that doesn't support VPNs. IPVanish can easily access every restricted website and platform, and the dark web is no exception.

This is a budget VPN  that also offers unlimited simultaneous connections. Because of this, it is an excellent VPN for multiple devices. This service also gives you access to customer support via 24/7 live chat, letting you easily solve your problems. If you get an annual or 2-year subscription you will get a 30-day refund guarantee, so you can test IPVanish and see if it fits your needs.

Take a look at our full IPVanish review for more details.

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How to connect to a Dark web with a VPN [In detail]

!Note: The following guide assumes that you are connecting from a laptop or a PC.

1. Purchase a subscription from a reliable VPN service such as NordVPN
   
   NordVPN is the most convenient, but you can also use Surfshark if you are on a budget. If you want, you can use one of the cryptocurrencies to purchase it.
2. Install and run your VPN app
   
   Make sure to turn on additional safety tools, like Kill Switch and real-time protection.
3. Take additional protection measures
   
   VPNs are powerful, but they won't protect you if you are still logged in on your Spotify account or OneDrive. It is best to just close everything that you don't need when going to the dark web.
   
   Depending on your device, you'll want to turn off your location and cover up the webcam. Lastly, having a powerful antivirus is a must.
4. Connect to a server
   
   If you have NordVPN, use the onion-over-VPN server. Otherwise, connect to an obfuscated server. You will get the best performance if it is close to your actual location. Still, we would advise that you at least connect from another country/state.
5. Download and set up your Tor browser
   
   As you are about to access the dark web, make sure that Tor's security level is set to Safest. This will disable javascript, which can be used as an entry point for hackers, from which they could reveal your identity. You will now be able to open only the bare bones of every website.
   
   Additionally, you should disable referrers and iframes.
6. See if your real IP, WebRTC, or DNS are leaking
   
   You can easily check this out here. Also see our VPN test guide.
7. Start using your VPN for the dark web
   
   The dark web works differently, so you will need to find reliable wiki pages which contain links for legit .onion websites.

How to browse the Dark Web safely

Both Tor and top VPN won't be enough if you are not exercising caution on the dark web. Our tips may seem obvious, but it is useful to “refresh” your common sense every now and again. We believe that you can never be too safe.

1. Keep your identity a secret

Dark web is filled with scammers, so you should never share any personal information with other users.

2. Use Tor just for the dark web

If you want to log in to your Instagram or other socials, use your regular browser. If you use Tor and then visit shady marketplaces, it will be easy for someone to connect the dots and reveal your identity.

3. Know what you are looking for

This really isn't the place that you should be browsing aimlessly, as one wrong click can lead you malware or countless disturbing sites. Prepare yourself beforehand, and always read URL description before opening new site.

4. Keep JavaScript Disabled

JavaScript is a known weak point that hackers can use to dig out your personal info or infec your computers. Although disabling it can make certain websites useless, the alternative can be much worse.

5. Create unique passwords and usernames

Use completely different info on each site that you register on. This will minimize the damage if you account gets hacked.

We also have a guide on how to access the Dark Web with more info.

Can I use a free Dark Web VPN?

A premium VPN subscription can get expensive, so you might start thinking about getting a free service. We seriously don’t recommend this, as free VPNs have a lot of disadvantages that could put you at risk.

1. Low-quality servers

Free VPNs don’t have nearly as many servers as premium alternatives, since they are very expensive to maintain. It’s likely that you will have to connect to a location that is very far away. This will have an impact on your performance.

2. Lack of advanced features

It’s unlikely that you will find a free app that has obfuscation and a kill switch, let alone onion-over-VPN servers. This would pose a significant threat risk, that is if you manage to connect to the dark web at all.

3. Data limits

Most free VPNs have a monthly data limit cap, which is usually about 2-10 GB. If you use your VPN for other things, like streaming, you will likely spend this quickly and will have to wait a month before you can use it again. You’re also at a significant risk to get cut off from the VPN while surfing the dark web, which could have serious consequences.

4. Security risks

A recent analysis of over 270 free mobile VPNs has shown that these apps have serious privacy and security issues.

• 38% of mobile VPNs had malware.
• Around 75% of free mobile VPN apps included trackers that monitor users' search activity.
• Over 84% of apps had very bad or non-existent encryption.

While this study was done only on smartphones, it is likely that the situation is the same, if not worse, on other devices. Unfortunately, free VPNs turn a profit by collecting and selling your information, which is the antithesis of what a VPN should do. And the vast majority of people still believed that they are relatively safe.

All in all, we would never recommend using free VPNs for the dark web, as the risks are simply too high. However, we have actually found 7 free VPNs that you can use for streaming shows or online gambling.

Parting Words

While the dark web is tempting, it contains many risks. To protect yourself, we highly recommend using a combination of a top dark web VPN and a Tor browser. This way, you can remain anonymous and protected while surfing.

We believe that NordVPN is the best VPN for dark web currently available. It offers high-end encryption, and plenty of fast servers, and is the only service on our list with Tor directly built-in. NordVPN is also available on most devices, so you can use it to protect your complete home network.

Check out our guide on Dark Web scans if you're concerned about your personal data being exposed.

Dark Web FAQ

The “Best VPN for dark web” article was last edited on January 8, 2024.