What is Onion Over VPN, and Its Benefits?

Unfortunately, it The Tor network is one of the most effective in modern times options for keeping your browsing activities private.provides only a single anonymity layer, which can expose as a matter of fact some of your traffic, especially at exit nodes.

Indeed, If used with Onion (Tor), a Virtual Private Network (VPN) will add an encryption layer to your Tor connection and keep your entire traffic anonymous. So, the Tor VPN combination is a dynamic duo that will strengthen your online security and privacy.

In this guide, we’ll explain Onion over VPN, the finest VPNs for Tor, how it works, and more.

A quick list of our top VPNs 

What is Onion over VPN

Indeed, We will have to look at how the different components involved function separately to illustrate how it works. Let s first look at’each briefly and then cover the duo.

What is ? VPNa

In factStanding, for a Virtual Private Network, a VPN is a technology passesthatyour web traffic through intermediary servers. It in modern times encrypts the connection between your device and as a matter of fact the server, making it impossible to intercept your information. Also from another perspective , the VPN will disguise your IP address when connectingIt’s worth noting that to the server.

On the other hand, you can purchase a plan from a VPN service provider. First, you canandbuild a VPN server, which is time-consuming complicated. in modern times There are twogetprimary ways you can a VPN.

The latter option has an extensive server network allowing you to link to any country you want. So, for instance, you can be in the UK and link to a server in the US. This like make you seem will you’re within the country, yet you are not.

---

What Tor as it turns out is?

Tor multilayered a sophisticated, uses security system to Tor is a gratis, open-source anonymity resource used to get around censorships to access all layers of the web, including the dark web. To access the Tor network, you must employ a Tor browser which is almost similar to regular browsers like Chrome and Firefox.protect you from government surveillance, ISP monitoring, and cybercriminals. Toranonymitys multi-layered security protects your ’ by;

• Encrypting your traffic: Tor routes and encrypts your data through a series of nodes to protect your anonymity.
• Masking your IP address: Tor hides your actual IP address from third parties, making it difficult to target you.
• Blocking trackers: Tor isolates every website you visit to prevent third-party trackers from following you on every site you visit.
• Blocking Fingerprinting: Tor Browser makes your digital fingerprint look similar to other users.
• Binning your history: Tor permanently clears all your browsing history after closing tabs.

In fact, digital conceals your identity while giving you a This fingerprint like other Tor users. in modern times Therefore, trackers Indeed, The Tor network encrypts your data thrice before routing itto a series of random volunteer-hosted servers until it reaches the intended site.cannot fingerprint you based on your device or browser information.

Additionally, Tor prevents anyone monitoring your web connection from seeing the websites you visit and your physical location. It also changes your IP address and enables you to bypass geo-restrictions. Moreover, Tor allows in modern times you to access the dark , whichwebis the unregulated part of the online. Interestingly, Also, it automatically deletes all your browsing history after closing the tabs to provide further secrecy.

Is a Tor Browser necessary to access the Tor Network?

Regular browsers cannot as it turns out launch Onion sites hosted on the Tor network, so you must apply Tor a browser. Additionally in modern times , you should subscribe to a VPN with an Onion over VPN function and combine it with a Tor Browser for maximum anonymity. However, there are only a few VPNs that help Onion over VPN.

---

Onion over VPN explained

It is more than ever a security and anonymity strategy for accessing the Tor network. It involves connecting to a VPN before launching your Tor browser more than ever for maximum protection. The Tor networkgives you anonymity, while the VPN provides confidentiality and security.

It as it turns out ’s worth noting that Combining the two technologies is ideal, especially when exploring the dark web. Actually, Tor network’s anonymity may be compromised by third parties who dig deeper by running entry and exit nodes to reveal your identity as it turns out . Therefore, you need a VPN totrustworthyprotect your secrecy and security.

As you may know, Here is the path your traffic takes when using it.

• Encryption of data by VPN.
• Encryption of data by Tor.
• The VPN server receives data.
• The VPN encrypts your data and sends it to Tor, adding another layer of anonymity.
• Data is routed through a series of nodes, losing an encryption layer at each node.
• Data reaches its destination completely decrypted.

The response from the site takes this path.

• The application or website sends a response
• Tor encrypts the response
• Tor relays the data
• VPN encrypts data
• The data, which is already double encrypted, is sent to your device.
• Tor decrypts data
• VPN decrypts data

Related read: VPN vs. Tor detailed comparison

---

Is a VPN for Tor necessary?

The Tor Browser and VPN combination provide you with adequate privacy and security to safeguard your information and web traffic.

A standalone Tor to will anonymize your connections, but it’s straightforward Browser intercept the traffic in modern times atthe entry and exit nodes. However, a VPN will seal all the gaps and keep you totally invisible with military-grade encryption.

The Tor browser is great for privacyIn fact, This is why you need to add a VPN. but only protects the traffic by passing it through several nodes. It uses advanced encryption to offer robust security and anonymity, regardless of whatever you are doing online. As a effect, any sites and apps outside the network can be easily exposed.

Pros and cons of Onion overusingTor

These are the of some advantages of Onion over VPN:

• It makes it easy to access dark web .onion sites securely and anonymously
• This prevents your ISP from seeing that you are using VPN 
• Stops the VPN provider from seeing your traffic or the websites you visit
• Let you surf the internet anonymously and securely
• Flexibility to use a VPN with a normal browser for non-critical errands
• Thwarts the Tor exit node from seeing your actual IP address but only that of the VPN server

It’s worth noting that At the same time, there are cons of Onion oversomeVPN:

• The VPN provider can see your actual IP address and that you are using the Tor network
• Apps and websites you visit can see your traffic emerging from a Tor exit node. In fact, they can block your connection or stop working altogether
• Compromised Tor exit nodes can potentially expose your data
• The combination of Tor and the VPN will significantly slow down your connection

---

Leading VPNs for Tor today

Below are thebuilttop three VPN services with -in Onion over as it turns out VPN features. They will be invaluable allies if you want to access the dark web safely.

1. NordVPN

Key features:

• 6,800 servers in 113 countries
• SmartPlay feature
• AES 256-bit encryption
• CyberSec adblocker
• Perfect forward secrecy
• 30-days money-back guarantee
• Compatible with Tor Browser, Windows, Android, macOS, IOS, Linux, Firefox, Chrome, RaspberryPi, and routers

NordVPN is a well-established VPN and high-standardoffersservices. provides state-of-the-art security and privacy features that will be useful when combined with theItTor network. Interestingly, In addition, it has consistent speeds and affordable an long-clause roadmap if you are on a budget.

We have this the VPN on featured list because of the inbuilt Onion over the VPN setupIn fact, it offers specially dedicated servers for Tor over VPN for a seamless connection. .

NordVPN employs AES 256-bit encryption innovation alongside SHA2-384 authentication and a 2048-bit DH key to safeguard your connections. it addition, In has perfect forward secrecy to alter the authentication key every time you launch the VPN. It’s worth noting that As a effect, your current session will remain completely anonymous and unrelated to your previous activities.

As you may know, The double different capability will also improve your security by routing your connection through two servers in VPN locations. Hence, no one can trace your activities because there isn’t a single line of traffic.

automatic kill switch is another wayTheto keep you always secureIndeed, . drops the VPN connection If, it will stop web traffic from leaving the encrypted tunnel to prevent leakage. In addition, the DNS/IPv6 leak protection will stop DNS requests and IP addresses from getting exposed.

In fact, NordVPN supports Windows and other major operating systems like Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, Firefox, Chrome, and routers. Fortunately, you can unite up to 10 simultaneous devices.

It’s worth noting that However, there is nothing to worry about, as Adding the Tor network will significantly slow down . web connectionyourNordVPN provides blazing-fast speeds for torrenting, streaming, and gaming tasks.

Pros:

• Special Onion over Tor servers
• Robust privacy and security
• Strict no-logs policy

Cons:

• Awkward interface

---

2 in modern times . Private Online (Access PIA)

Key features:

• Split Tunneling feature
• Ad-blocker
• AES-256 bit encryption
• Fully supports P2P
• No-logs policy
• Automatic Kill switch
• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reputable VPN with customizable security options and an extensive server network that supports Tor over VPN connections. It’s worth noting that This ensures you can as it turns out locate a server near you to reduce latency and server overload when exploring the dark web.

PIA uses theandAES-256 algorithm to encrypt your details, a robust encryption used by the military government agencies. Moreover, the VPN protects you against DNS/IPv6 and WRTCleaks , while its reliable kill switch prevents you from leaking sensitive information when your VPN connection drops.

Indeed, Its Wireguardandtransmission protocol ensures fast reliable connection speeds, which boosts operation. a provider also maintains The strict no-logs guideline and has applications for all major platforms and devices. What’s more, PIA hasThe only major drawback is that it is based in the US, which is not a secrecy-friendly country. a 30-day cash-return guarantee and allows unlimited simultaneous connections.

Pros:

• Dedicated apps for prominent platforms
• Largest server network
• Effective ad and malware blocker

Cons:

• Based in the USA

---

ExpressVPN 3.

Key features:

• 3,000+ servers in 107 countries
• AES 256-bit encryption
• Zero-logs policy
• TrustedServer technology
• Secure protocols
• Compatible with macOS, Windows, iOS, Tor Browser, Android, Linux, and routers

ExpressVPN is another reliable VPN option in modern times .for Tor Browser In , factthe provider recently introduced as a matter of fact .onion site for improvedaanonymity. In addition, ittrackingsupports Tor over VPN setup, which will eliminate exit node .

We of bypassed the restrictions successfully Like capabilities previous VPNs, ExpressVPN also has incredible unblocking the.BBC iPlayer and other popular serviceslike ESPN, Netflix.Hulu, etc,

The VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption combined with a 4096-bit RSA key, SHA-512 HMAC authentication, and a 256-bit cipher to protect your connections. This is in modern times one of the best security combinations that is almost impossible to.break

Moreover, perfect forward secrecy is a robust feature to maintain online anonymityActually, . It will assign you a fresh authentication key every time you initiate a session, erasing data from previous sessions.

In addition, it allows you to customize the tunneling protocol to get the leading reliable connection. For illustration, OpenVPN UDP is the default protocol, but you can also L2TP to OpenVPN TCP, PPTP, and transform/IPsec.

The in modern times Network Lock (kill switch) helps protect your traffic . when the VPN stops workingeven As you may know, Also, the DNS/IPv6 leak protection assures your secrecy by preventing your DNS request and IP from leaking.

ExpressVPN has apps for almost all operating systems, including macOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and iOS. Fortunately, you can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously. In addition, installing it on your router is an option if you want to add more devices.

Pros:

• Reliable and fast servers
• Support .onion over VPN
• Strong encryption protocol

Cons:

• Lacks kill switch for iOS

---

Actually, 4. As youmay know, Surfshark

Key features:

• 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
• MultiHop mode
• AES 256-bit encryption
• CleanWeb adblocker
• DNS/IP leak protection
• 30-days money-back guarantee

Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPNLuckily, it supports VPN over Tor configuration. you can combine with the Tor Browser to improve online privacy. This means you first install the VPN and then join to themustTor network.

This VPN uses multiple high-end security and privacy featuresSecond, the VPN has MultiHop mode to route traffic through multiple servers for additional protection. to keep you .guarded First, it will securebityour facts with AES 256- encryption, a military-grade tech.

Interestingly, Furthermore, to automatic kill switch will discontinue your traffic flow if as it turns out the VPN connection breaks the stop data leakage. In addition, it provides ., OpenVPN, and IKEv2 protocols for reliable connectionsShadowsocks

The feature will Surfshark has a camouflage mode will enableBrowseryou to apply the Tor in heavily censored countries like China.disguise your VPN traffic and make it look normal even under deep packet inspection (DPI). As the consequence, you will be able to access a online anonymously.

ThehasVPN excellent unblocking capabilitiesIt’s worth noting that and will bypass almost every geo-restriction. For instancewe, unblocked Netflix US in modern times and other popular streaming services like Disney+, Sky Go, Hulu, HBO, etc. Fortunately, the built-in CleanWeb suite will block all intrusive ads so you can have a smooth streaming exposure.

Surfshark provides dedicated apps for AndroidIt’iOS worth noting that , macOS, Windows, s, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and routers. Thankfully, it supports unlimited simultaneous connections, which allows you to utilize the Tor Browserwanton as many devices as you .

Pros:

• Fast speed connections
• It doesn’t limit the number of devices
• Unblocks popular streaming services

Cons:

• Slow connections on some servers

---

How to set up Onion over VPN?

As you may know, All you need is a Tor browser and VPN service. It is straightforward to utilize Onion over a VPN.A tool like Tortilla more than ever can be useful if you want to route all your traffic through Tor. The following steps will help you do it. First, however, you willthestill need to utilize Tor browser.

1. Register for a VPN service. Choose a provider that has a strict no-logs policy and buy a subscription with an anonymous method. The idea is to leave as few bits of your identifiable data as possible. Our number one recommendation is NordVPN.
2. Download and install the software on your device. Then, find a server with the highest speed and connect.
3. Download and install the Tor browser. Then, open the browser and connect to the Tor network.

Once you complete the above three steps, your traffic will be protected by two encryption sources: the Tor browser and the VPN. Note that would apply to all your traffic if youthisutilize a resource like Tortilla. Indeed, as it turns out Also, remember that the configuration involves many intermediary servers, so your connection pace will be reduced significantly. Therefore, you should utilize a VPN for everyday apply and add the Tor browser for sensitive activities.

Is Onion over VPN trusted?

Vulnerabilities in such a configuration can be attributed to the parties involved: the Onion network or the VPN.

When it comes toothersVPNs, some are more reliable than . In fact, For illustration, you have to pick a no-logs service to be on the guarded side. So, checkout for Unfortunately, some providers claim not to retain logs just to lure in more users.third-party audits by reputable firms and records of refusal to hand over information to authorities. A VPN that keeps logs is one of the impending threats to your confidentiality.

On the other hand, the biggest shortcoming of the Onion network is that anyone can create a Tor node. This means malicious actors can utilize roguenodes to spy on your activities.

Therefore, your secrecy will be based on two separate entities when you utilize a VPN together with Onion. For example, the VPN will encrypt the traffic the Tor network cannot protect, like the ICMP. However, a VPN will make this impossible. Actually, Conversely, your web service provider (ISP) can tell when you utilize Tor. In fact, The advantage is that the chain is longer if there is a point of failure or any other uncertainty.

Safety precautions when using VPN over Onion

It provides you with the necessaryandconfidentiality, security, anonymity, but it cannot protect you from yourself. For instance, it cannot prevent you from submitting personal information to Onion websites, which can compromise your confidentiality.

Here are some precautionsoveryou need to take when using Tor VPN.

• Think before you click: Many malicious users on the dark web plant viruses, malware, and scams. Generally, don’t click links that you do not recognize.
• Check URLs: Be keen to check the legitimacy and security of the URLs of the websites you visit. Check the address bar to ensure the URL starts with https:// and whether the name is correct. 
• Install a robust antivirus: Get reliable, effective, and up-to-date antivirus software to detect and remove threats that could slip through your Onion over a VPN connection.
• Configure your Tor security and privacy settings: Tweak your Tor security settings to ‘safest.’ Some websites may not work, but it scales up your security and privacy. The ‘safest’ mode keeps you anonymous even if your Tor is hacked.

---

How can I safely employ Onion over a VPN?

Option up Onion over VPN is relatively uncomplicated as you only need to connect to your VPN before launching your Tor browser.

As you may know, The following steps show how you can safely utilize Onion over VPN.

• Subscribe to a reliable and trustworthy VPN that supports the .onion over VPN feature. We recommend ExpressVPN because of its efficient built-in Onion over VPN feature.
• Connect to a VPN server: Ensure the server you connect to is near your physical location to boost connection speeds.
• Download and install the Tor browser on your device 
• Open your Tor Browser when still connected to the VPN server
• Start browsing anonymously in an Onion over a VPN environment. Avoid sharing your personal information to protect your privacy.

---

When can I employ Onion over VPN?

The Onion over VPN approach is complex and emphasizes confidentiality, security, and anonymity. Actually It is, therefore, ideal for, transmitting highly sensitive information or bypassing geo-restrictions in countries with high censorship. is commonly used by journalistsItand whistleblowers who want to remain anonymous.

Don’t utilize Onion more than ever over VPN if:

• Speed is important to your connection.
• You are accessing personally identifying sites like social media.
• You are casually browsing the internet.

Use Onion over VPN if:

• You are an activist, whistleblower, or journalist.
• Do not want to access the Tor network directly.
• You value anonymity.

Be cautious when using Tor because it cannot protect you from malicious exit nodes. The Onion more than ever over VPN connection can also be extremely slow, so only utilize it when necessary. While the Onionover VPN is a perfect anonymity resource, it cannot guarantee 100% anonymity.

Double VPN vs. in modern times OnionVPNover

, Remember thatActuallythe Onion over VPN configuration isn’t the only fix you want to increaseifyour online anonymity. Indeed, There is also an option to utilize several VPNs simultaneously. As aconnectionconsequence, your will be passed through multiple servers, and your traffic will be encrypted twice.

Fortunately, different VPNs have integrated this capability into their apps but name it differently. In fact, Some common names include double VPNIn fact, , multi-hop, nested VPN, etc.

Moreover, you can try manually setting up different connection with two the VPN services. The problem is that there from another perspective might be software compatibility issues as it turns out . In addition, you may also need to pay for two different subscriptions. In fact, For sample, the Windows operating system is susceptible to TAP driver .errors

In fact, Should I employ Tor Bridges instead of a VPN?

There is an to link throughoptionTor bridges when using the as a matter of fact Tor network. Although bridges function similarly to relays, the benefit is that bridges are not public and aren’t included in the leading Tor directoryIn fact, . Unfortunately, it is tough to uncover them. It’s worth noting that Luckily, you can build them, but it’s complicated.

These bridges canimprove your browsing from another perspective background significantly. Thankfully, they exist differentinvariants. For sample, obfuscated Tor bridgesIndeed, will come in handy when accessing geocensorshipblocked text in a country with heavy web - like China and UAE, to couple a name. Indeed, Most probably, your internet system provider (ISP won’t block private Tor) bridges.

VPN over Onion VS Onion over VPN

You can opt to join your VPN before launching your Tor browser or initiate with the Tor browser and then link to your VPN server. The first approach is called Onion over VPN, and the latter is called VPN over Onion.

VPN over Tor routes traffic through the Tor network first, then via the VPN’s encrypted tunnel. As in modern times you may know, The connection undermines anonymity because the guard nodes can see your public IP address even though exit nodes cannotthesee the contents of your traffic.

The table shows the advantages and disadvantages of VPN over Tor

Advantages	Disadvantages
Users can access websites that bock exit nodesVPN kill switch can prevent data leaksProtects you against malicious nodes	ISP can see you are connected to TorYour VPN and can theoretically monitor your browsing activities. Uses excessive double encryption connections are extremely slow VPN choices are limited setup is complexGuard node can see your public IP address

VPN over Onion is complex to set up, and you may need guidance from your VPN provider. Poor configurations may lead to traffic leaks, exposing you to countless online threats or undermining your anonymity.

As you may know, How VPN over Onion affects your security and Confidentiality

Allows you to access websites that block Tor traffic

Asblockedyou may know, It is possible to access websites with Tor IP addresses. This is because the websites receive a connection from a VPN server rather than a Tor exit node. Therefore, the portal cannot determine whether the connection originates from the Tor network. Also, the IP address connecting to the portal belongs to the VPN server and not the as a matter of fact blocked Tor exit nodes.

In fact, Protects you against malicious exit nodes

In the VPN over Onion approach, the VPN is connected last, and therefore, it encrypts all the traffic from the exit node to more than ever the online. Therefore, unlike Onion over VPN, the exit node can’t see your traffic’s contents. The exit node only knows you are connected to a VPN but cannot see the websites you visit.

In this approach, the kill switch is very effective once the VPN connection drops. This prevents your , , such as your IP addressinformationfrom leaking.

Government as it turns out agencies may monitor your activities for surveillance

When you unite to your Tor network directly without first connecting to a VPN, your ISP can see that you are using Tor and mark you for surveillance. As you may know, Also, the Tor guard node can see your public IP address which crushes all the efforts of staying anonymous.

Once security agencies likethe National Security Agency (NSA) have your IP address, they can use their sophisticated technology to activities your online monitor.

Your VPN can monitor and track your activity

Tor’s main focus is anonymity. So, VPN over Onion compromises youranonymity by allowing VPNs to access your web traffic and IP address. Also, some VPNs store identifying information on their servers, making your connection traceable. For this reason, the warns users against the VPN over Tor onion approach.

---

To as a matter of fact whom does Onion over VPN employ suit leading?

The Onion over VPN setup can help a wide variety of people due to its enhanced security and simplicity. These are some of the people that can benefit from Onion over VPN and .why

Peopledatawith sensitive

With the Onion over VPN setup, your ISP can see that you are using the configuration but not your activities. This is because the VPN will secure your connection and prevent any third party from tracking you what are doing online. Therefore, you will get complete confidentiality and confidentiality to wander the web freely.

---

Residents and travelers in countries with autocratic governments

Interestingly, The Onion over VPN setup is effortless to operateFortunately, several VPN providers have integrated the Onion networkwith their software. The configuration will improve your online security and secrecy so that government authorities cannot monitor your activities. . For instance, NordVPN offers this function. A single select will route your traffic.through the Tor network

---

Journalists whistleblowers, and political, activists

A VPN will encrypt your traffic and pass it through an encrypted tunnel, while the Tor network will improve your anonymityActually, . This will enable you to browse anything on the internet privately and securely.

---

FAQs