Orbot is a free software project to provide anonymity on the internet for mobile devices. It’s a mobile proxy application that helps you access the internet privately by routing your internet traffic through the Tor network. Here are some key features and steps to use Orbot:
Key Features:
- Anonymity: Routes your internet traffic through multiple servers (nodes) in the Tor network, making it difficult to trace back to your device.
- Encryption: Encrypts your data before it leaves your device, adding an additional layer of security.
- Bypass Censorship: Allows access to websites that may be blocked in your region.
- Open Source: Orbot is open-source, meaning its code is publicly available for scrutiny, ensuring transparency and security.
How to Use Orbot:
- Download and Install:
- Go to the Google Play Store (for Android) or the F-Droid repository and download Orbot.
- For iOS, you can use the Onion Browser, which serves a similar purpose.
- Setup:
- Open Orbot and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the app.
- Grant necessary permissions if prompted.
- Start Tor:
- Open Orbot and tap on the power button to start the Tor network connection.
- Wait for the connection to be established. You might see a log of messages as Orbot connects to the network.
- Use Apps with Orbot:
- You can route the traffic of specific apps through Orbot by selecting them in the app’s settings.
- For browsing, you can use the Tor Browser or configure your preferred browser to use Orbot as a proxy.
- Advanced Settings (Optional):
- Explore advanced settings like setting up bridges if Tor is blocked in your country or configuring a local proxy.
Tips for Using Orbot:
- Speed: Tor can be slower than regular browsing due to the multiple relays your traffic goes through.
- Security: Ensure you use HTTPS websites for an additional layer of security.
- Privacy: Be cautious about entering personal information even when using Orbot, as the exit node could potentially see your unencrypted traffic.
