Does the phrase private browser ring a bell? Considering the questionable digital privacy conditions, such programs are becoming increasingly popular.
A private browser is a web browser that helps you keep your browsing history and other data confidential. It does this by enabling specific security mechanisms and reducing the opportunities for entities to track you. Thus, such tools are great for keeping your data safe from prying eyes, whether it be someone who might be snooping on your computer or trackers that log your interactions with the web. Let’s see which private browsers are the best for your Linux operating system.
Top Private Browsers for Linux
Here are some private browsers that will be good friends with Linux.
Tor Browser
The Tor Browser is one of the most private browsers out there. It was created by the Tor Project, an organization that focuses on privacy and anonymity.
The browser is based on Firefox, which has all the Firefox features. However, it also comes with some extra features meant explicitly for privacy. For example, it comes with the Tor browser add-on, which helps you keep your browsing history and other data private.
Another great feature of the Tor Browser is that it can access the dark web. The dark web is a part of the internet accessible through browsers like the Tor Browser. It is a collection of sites hidden from the public and can only be accessed through unique means.
The downside of the Tor Browser is that it is a bit slow. It happens because of the onion routing, which reassures the privacy and anonymity you need. Encryption is also one of the reasons why browsing with Tor might be a bit annoying due to its performance.
Brave Browser
The Brave Browser is another excellent private browser that Linux users can use. It was created by Brendan Eich, the co-founder of Mozilla Firefox.
The Brave Browser is based on Chromium, which has all the Chromium’s features. However, it also comes with some add-on features specifically for privacy. For example, it comes with a built-in ad blocker, which helps you keep your data safe from trackers that advertisers use.
Another unique feature of the Brave Browser is supporting the Basic Attention Token (BAT). The BAT is a cryptocurrency that was created to help support online publishers. It does this by providing a way for users to donate money to publishers directly. It is a great way to help support your favorite online publications while keeping your data private.
GNU IceCat
GNU IceCat is an impressive private browser that Linux users can use. It was created by the GNU Project, which is a project that focuses on building free software.
GNU IceCat is based on Firefox, which has all the Firefox features. However, it also comes with some features specifically for privacy nerds. For example, it comes with the GNU Privacy Guard (GnuPG), which helps you keep your data safe from trackers.
Another great feature of GNU IceCat is that it supports HTTPS Everywhere. HTTPS Everywhere is a Firefox add-on that helps you ensure that you are constantly browsing through a secure connection. It is excellent for keeping your data safe.
LibreWolf
If you are looking for a private browser that is also open-source, Librewolf is a great option. It is based on Firefox, so it has all the features you would expect from that browser. Additionally, it includes some privacy-focused features, such as tracker blocking and script blocking.
Is Private Browser Enough?
You might think that your work is done once you get a privacy-focused browser. To be fair, it does offer many benefits, like blocking trackers and targeted advertising. However, such programs are not enough to keep your online activities safe and sound.
Thus, you should consider other options. For instance, get a VPN to safeguard each connection and data transmission. Virtual Private Network is a tool that encrypts your internet traffic, hides IP addresses, and protects data from being intercepted. It is one of the best tools for privacy-conscious internet users.
Also, do not forget about rejecting third-party cookies. If your browser blocks them automatically, good! However, it might be that you will need to do this manually. Lastly, follow other browsing tips, like staying away from unknown websites.
Conclusion
These are some of the few great private browsers that Linux users can use. These browsers come with great features that will help keep your data safe and secure. So, if you are looking for a private browser that is tailored specifically for Linux, be sure to check out one of these options!