5 Best Private Web Browsers of 2021

With recent cases of cybersecurity attacks hitting major companies across the United States, maintaining internet safety is more important than ever. Safeguarding your information from hackers is a necessary method of protection for those who use social media, shop online, or share private data over the Internet. The best private web browsers of 2021 can go a long way toward helping you stay safe.

Best Private Web Browsers of 2021

Using a secure private web browser can make it easier for you to safely navigate the Internet and continue doing the things you love without worrying about your information being tracked or monitored. Take a look below as we examine some of the best private web browsers of 2021.

FreeNet

• Available for Windows, macOS, Linux

The peer-to-peer platform, FreeNet, is excellent for handling censored communications over an encrypted and decentralized network. FreeNet also supports connections with other platforms such as Opennet, creating a way for users to send and receive private files anonymously. 

There are a few drawbacks, however.

FreeNet can load slowly due to the layers of protection that are enabled to keep the identity of the user hidden. Further, only sites that are hosted on the FreeNet network can be accessed within the browser. The platform itself a useful tool for users with an advanced understanding of Internet security technology and online surveillance, but not newbie friendly.

Vivaldi

• Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android

If customizing your private browsing experience is an important factor for you, Vivaldi is a great solution for anyone looking to increase their safety while retaining an easy-to-use platform. The end-to-end encryption that the desktop version of Vivaldi provides is a good way to keep functionality at the forefront of your private browsing experience.

As a Chromium-based platform, Vivaldi is compatible with some of the browser extensions available to Chrome users. These extensions may carry malware, however, which is why it is important to install a reliable VPN to protect yourself against potential cyberattacks.

Tor Browser

• Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux

One of the most popular and widely-known private Internet browsers is Tor Browser. It functions on hidden relay servers programmed with a variety of security features that allow for secure and safe private browsing. Tor, which means “The Onion Router,” has multiple layers of protection to provide users with a safe, encrypted browsing experience. 

Tor allows you to hide your location from third parties by encrypting your traffic three different times. Unfortunately, this makes the browser itself operate at a lower capacity, running much slower than the average private web browser. The platform itself focuses mainly on privacy rather than security and does not come with any virus or malware protection. However, it is the best way to access the so-called “Dark Web.”

Epic

• Available for Windows and macOS 

Created as a Chromium-based private browser, Epic believes in a customized security experience for each user that reflects their individual privacy needs. This approach means that you are in control over how much information you choose to share. Your browsing information is stored locally on your device and deleted automatically after you close the browser. Epic does not store any private browsing data within the platform to ensure a safe and secure experience.

The platform takes privacy to the next level by removing browser functionality for spell checks, auto-syncing, or auto-filling. The private browser Epic can also help users by blocking hackers and tracking, as well as monitoring the safety of any data sent or received over the platform.  

Brave

• Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS

Although it is one of the most recent additions to the field of private web browsing, Brave has a lot to offer its users. With features that include secure password management, script blocking, and tracking protection, the open-source Brave platform is a good choice for users who are new to the importance of private web browsing.

The Brave browser works to block invasive trackers and any spyware masquerading as advertisements. Brave stores your browsing data locally, allowing you to remove it from your device whenever you want. This means that none of your data can be shared with third parties, which is a common issue in cases of online identity theft.

Take Control of Your Internet Safety

Securing your online privacy is necessary for anyone who uses the Internet at home or work to share and access protected information. Using a dedicated private web browser and a powerful VPN will allow you to protect yourself against tracking, malware, phishing scams, and other cybercrimes that could threaten the security of your data. 

Technology is rapidly changing, and Internet safety has become more difficult to maintain as cybercriminals develop new and innovative ways to obtain private information. The first step in taking control of your online security is installing a private web browser and a strong VPN to reduce your chances of being the victim of a cybercrime.