Using Tor Browser when websites or networks are blocked

What Tor Browser is for

Tor Browser sends its own web traffic through the Tor network and reduces several forms of browser tracking. It does not protect every application on your computer, and no tool can promise perfect anonymity. Check the law and personal risk in your location before attempting to bypass a network restriction.

Install it from an official source

Use the official Tor Project download page or an official mirror/GetTor method if that page is blocked. Avoid repackaged downloads and unofficial mobile apps. The Tor Project's download guidance explains the supported alternatives.

Connect normally first

Launch Tor Browser and choose Connect. A direct connection is the simplest option where Tor is reachable. Once connected, keep Tor Browser updated and leave its privacy-oriented defaults alone unless you understand the consequence.

If Tor is blocked, use Connection Assist or a bridge

Choose Configure Connection. Connection Assist may select a working censorship-circumvention method. You can also open Settings → Connection → Bridges and request a bridge from inside Tor Browser. Official bridge options can include obfs4, WebTunnel, and Snowflake; availability changes, so use the current Tor bridge instructions.

Bridge addresses are deliberately less public than ordinary relays. Obtain them through Tor Browser or another official Tor Project channel. Do not paste bridge lines from random forums.

Safer everyday use

• Keep activity that needs separation in Tor Browser rather than opening links in another browser.
• Do not install extra extensions or plugins.
• Check the hostname and HTTPS indicator before entering sensitive information.
• Remember that signing into an existing account identifies that session to the account provider.
• Be cautious with downloaded documents that may contact the internet when opened in another application.
• Do not use BitTorrent over Tor. The Tor Project warns that torrent clients may expose your real address and damage performance for other users.

The Tor Project's Tor Browser safety guidance explains these limitations and its Standard, Safer, and Safest browser security levels.

Proxy versus bridge

The proxy option in Tor Browser is for a network that already requires an upstream proxy. A Tor bridge is a less-public route into the Tor network intended to help when direct Tor connections are blocked. Most people do not need to configure both. If you are in a high-risk situation, seek current advice from a reputable digital-security organisation rather than relying on a generic checklist.