The Dark Web: An Overview

What is the Dark Web?

The dark web is a part of the internet renowned for its anonymity, often linked to various illegal activities but also hosting legitimate uses. It's a hidden segment of the internet, accessible only through special software that enables anonymous browsing and communication.

Differences Between Surface Web, Deep Web, & Dark Web

• Surface Web: This is the easily accessible part of the internet, indexed by standard search engines like Google and Bing, and usable with regular web browsers.
• Deep Web: Encompassing all parts of the internet not indexed by standard search engines, the deep web includes private databases, government records, and academic resources that require specific credentials for access.
• Dark Web: A subset of the deep web, the dark web demands special software, such as Tor or I2P, for access. Not indexed by standard search engines, it's known for heightened privacy and anonymity.

History of the Dark Web

The dark web's roots are intertwined with the creation of the Tor network, originally developed in the mid-1990s by the United States Naval Research Laboratory for secure communication. Released to the public, Tor morphed into a tool for anonymous internet access, leading to the emergence of online marketplaces and forums within the dark web, some notorious for illicit activities.

The dark web, despite its infamy, is also crucial for protecting privacy and freedom of speech, especially in regimes with stringent censorship. It represents a complex, ever-evolving aspect of the internet.