How to Configure Orfox as Your Default Browser with Tor on Android

Orfox was one of the first privacy-focused browsers for Android to incorporate Tor, making it an essential tool for secure mobile browsing. Although Orfox has since been replaced by the official Tor Browser for Android, some users may still prefer it for its simplified interface and Tor integration. This guide will walk you through setting Orfox as your default browser on Android and configuring it for maximum privacy.

Why Choose Orfox with Tor as Your Default Browser?

Setting Orfox as your default on Android means you’ll have quick access to Tor’s anonymous network whenever you open a link, keeping your browsing private. With Orfox, Android users can bypass tracking and censorship with ease. Although it’s now retired, many users appreciate Orfox’s simplicity and focus on security, making it a viable option for secure browsing on Android.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Orfox Your Default Browser on Android

Before beginning, make sure Orfox is installed on your Android device. Since it’s no longer officially available, you may need to find it from trusted, verified sources. Once installed, follow these steps to set Orfox as your default browser.

Step 1: Access Android Settings

  • Open Android Settings: On your Android device, go to the main Settings app.
  • Select “Apps”: Scroll down and select “Apps” or “Applications,” depending on your device.
  • Default Apps: In the Apps menu, look for “Default apps” or “Browser app.”

Step 2: Set Orfox as the Default Browser

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

  • Choose Orfox: In the “Browser app” section, you’ll see a list of available browsers. Select Orfox to make it your default.
  • Confirm the Change: FAndroid may ask you to confirm this choice. Tap “OK” or “Yes” to confirm Orfox as your default.

Note: With Orfox as your default, any link opened from apps like Gmail or Messages will automatically launch in Orfox, routing your browsing through Tor.

Configuring Orfox for Tor on Android

Since Orfox was built with Tor in mind, it should automatically connect to the Tor network on startup. However, ensure you have Orbot (the Tor proxy app for Android) installed and running to support Orfox’s Tor connection.

  • Download Orbot: Go to the Google Play Store, search for Orbot, and install it on your device.
  • Start Orbot: Open Orbot and tap “Start” to activate the Tor network on your device.
  • Check Orfox Connection: Launch Orfox and confirm that it’s connected to Tor. A message should appear indicating a Tor connection.

With Orbot running, Orfox will be able to route all internet activity through Tor’s secure, anonymous network.

Verifying Orfox and Tor Connection

To confirm everything is set up properly, test your connection:

  • Visit Tor’s Test Site: Open Orfox and go to check.torproject.org. This site will tell you if your browser is using Tor.
  • Confirm Connection: If correctly configured, the site should show a message confirming that your browser is connected to the Tor network.

Switching Back to Your Previous Browser (Optional)

If you ever want to switch back to a different browser, it’s easy to revert the settings:

  • Return to Default Apps: Go back to your Android Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
  • Select a New Default Browser: Choose your previous browser (e.g., Chrome) to reset the default.

Important Tips for Using Orfox with Tor on Android

Orfox offers great privacy benefits, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Orbot Requirement: Orfox relies on Orbot to connect to the Tor network, so ensure Orbot is running in the background.
  • Connection Speed: Like all Tor browsers, Orfox may load pages more slowly due to the Tor routing process.
  • Consider Upgrading to Tor Browser for Android: Since Orfox is now retired, consider using the official Tor Browser for Android for continued updates and support.

By configuring Orfox as your default browser with Tor, you gain access to privacy-focused browsing that keeps your activities hidden from trackers and censors. Enjoy secure, anonymous browsing on Android with Orfox.

Can't decide on a browser for Tor? Here's another option to explore. How to Configure Whonix Workstation as Your Default Browser with Tor.