How to Configure Tor Browser as Your Default Browser

Tor Browser offers a unique path to privacy, automatically routing traffic through the Tor network to ensure your online activities remain anonymous. Setting it as your default browser means every link you click or document you open will run through Tor’s encrypted, privacy-first system. This guide will walk you through the straightforward steps to make Tor Browser your default, allowing you to maintain anonymity across all your online interactions.

Why Set Tor Browser as Your Default Browser?

Configuring Tor Browser as your default is about more than just convenience. It ensures that all external links you open – from email, messages, or documents – are routed through Tor. This setup enhances privacy by keeping your browsing within Tor’s secure network. Plus, with Tor as your default, you’ll never have to worry about accidentally opening a link in a standard, non-encrypted browser.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Tor Browser Your Default

Before diving into configuration, make sure you have Tor Browser installed on your device. If you haven’t yet, download it from the official Tor Project website to avoid any security risks.

Step 1: Access Tor Browser Settings

To make Brave your default browser, follow these initial steps:

  • Open Tor Browser: Start by launching the Tor Browser from your applications.
  • Go to Preferences: In the top-right corner, click on the menu icon (three horizontal lines). Select “Preferences” to open Tor Browser’s settings.

Step 2: Set Tor Browser as Default

Now, let’s configure it as your default browser for all future links:

  • Scroll to General Settings: In Preferences, find the “General” section at the top.
  • Click on “Make Default”: In this section, there should be an option labeled “Make Tor Browser your default browser.” Click this to set Tor as your default.

Tip: You may see a prompt from your operating system asking if you’re sure about making Tor your default browser. Confirm this to proceed.

Step 3: Verify the Default Setting

Ensuring that the setting has applied correctly is crucial.

  • Test a Link: Open a document or email with a link and click it. If everything’s set up, the link should automatically open in Tor Browser.
  • Double-check System Settings (Optional): Some operating systems, like Windows or macOS, allow you to verify default browser settings in the system preferences. Go to your device’s Default Apps settings and ensure Tor Browser is selected as the default.

How to Revert Back to Your Previous Default Browser

Deciding to use Tor as your primary browser is a powerful choice, but it might not fit every situation. Switching back is easy if you find that another browser better suits your needs.

  • Open System Preferences: Go to your device’s default app settings (often in System Preferences or Control Panel).
  • Choose Your Previous Browser: From the “Default Browser” section, simply select your previous browser to reset the default.

Important Tips for Using Tor as Your Default Browser

While Tor Browser enhances privacy, there are a few points to keep in mind when making it your main browser:

  • Performance and Speed: Because of Tor’s multi-layered encryption, pages may load more slowly than in a standard browser. Be prepared for slightly longer wait times, especially on data-heavy sites.
  • File Downloads: Tor is optimized for browsing, not for downloading large files. For general downloading, consider using another browser to avoid slowing down the Tor network.
  • Compatibility: Some websites may restrict Tor access or display differently due to its privacy settings.

Making Tor Browser your default is a strong step towards secure browsing. This setup helps protect your privacy, ensuring that all your web activity stays encrypted and anonymous.

Unsure about the best browser to pair with Tor? Here's another option to help you decide. How to Configure Brave as Your Default Browser with Tor.