How to Configure GNU IceCat as Your Default Browser with Tor

GNU IceCat, a Firefox-based browser developed by the GNU Project, is known for its privacy features and dedication to free software principles. Although it doesn’t come with built-in Tor support, GNU IceCat can be configured to connect through the Tor network, giving users enhanced privacy and control. This guide will show you how to set GNU IceCat as your default browser and configure it for Tor browsing.

Why Use GNU IceCat with Tor as Your Default Browser?

Setting up GNU IceCat with Tor allows you to combine IceCat’s privacy-first, open-source browsing experience with the anonymity of the Tor network. This setup is ideal for those who value free software and wish to avoid tracking. By making GNU IceCat your default browser with Tor, you ensure that all links opened from your device are routed through a secure, privacy-focused environment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make GNU IceCat Your Default Browser with Tor

Before beginning, make sure you have GNU IceCat installed on your system. You can download it from the GNU Project website. Follow these steps to set it as your default browser and configure it with Tor.

Step 1: Set GNU IceCat as Your Default Browser

  • Open GNU IceCat: Launch IceCat from your applications menu.
  • Go to Preferences: Click on the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the upper-right corner and select “Preferences.”
  • Make IceCat Default: In the “General” section, click the “Make Default” button to set GNU IceCat as your main browser.

Note: Your operating system may prompt you to confirm this change. Select “Yes” or “Confirm” to complete the process.

Step 2: Configure GNU IceCat to Use Tor

To route GNU IceCat traffic through the Tor network, you’ll need to set up a proxy connection

  • Open Network Settings: In the Preferences menu, scroll down to “Network Settings” and click “Settings…” on the right.
  • Choose Manual Proxy Configuration: ISelect the “Manual proxy configuration” option.
  • Enter Tor Proxy Details:
    SOCKS Host: 127.0.0.1
    Port: 9050
  • Enable Proxy DNS Over SOCKS: Check the box for “Proxy DNS when using SOCKS v5” to ensure that DNS queries are routed through Tor.
  • Save Changes: Click “OK” to save your settings.

Reminder: You’ll need Tor running on your device for GNU IceCat to connect. You can open Tor Browser or use the Tor service to activate the Tor network.

Verifying Tor Connectivity

After configuring GNU IceCat to route through Tor, confirm that the connection is working properly.

  • Visit Tor’s Test Page: Open a new tab and go to check.torproject.org. This page will verify if your browser is using the Tor network.
  • Confirm Tor Status: If configured correctly, you should see a message confirming that your browser is connected to Tor.

Reverting to Standard Network Settings in GNU IceCat (Optional)

If you decide to stop using GNU IceCat with Tor, it’s easy to return to standard browsing.

  • Return to Network Settings: Go to IceCat’s Preferences and access Network Settings.
  • Select No Proxy: Change the proxy setting to “No proxy” to return to a regular connection.
  • Save Changes: Click “OK” to apply the changes.

Important Tips for Using GNU IceCat with Tor

Using GNU IceCat with Tor provides excellent privacy, but consider the following points for the best experience:

  • Performance: Tor can slow down browsing speeds, especially on data-heavy sites.
  • Privacy Add-Ons: IceCat comes with strong privacy protections by but adding tools like HTTPS Everywhere or Privacy Badger can further enhance security.
  • Not a Full Tor Browser: Although IceCat is configurable with Tor, it doesn’t have the same optimizations for Tor as the Tor Browser.

By setting GNU IceCat as your default browser with Tor, you gain both freedom from tracking and the anonymity of Tor, creating a secure environment for browsing.

Still figuring out the best browser for Tor? Here's another suggestion. How to Configure Tails OS Browser as Your Default Browser with Tor.