Deep Web vs. Dark Web: what’s the difference?

The terms "deep web" and "dark web" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to two distinct concepts. The primary difference is that the deep web contains internet content that cannot be accessed through search engines, while the dark web is a hidden network that requires a special browser to access.

You interact with the deep web daily when you check your email or shop online, but you need the Tor Browser to access the dark web.

In this article, we’ll explain what the deep web and the dark web are, their differences, and some related developments.

What is the Deep Web?

The deep web is the part of the internet that cannot be accessed through search engines like Google and Bing. Also known as "non-indexed" content, it includes any content hidden behind some form of access control, such as a login or a password. The deep web is vast, containing about 7,500 terabytes of information compared to just 19 terabytes on the "surface" web. Essentially, it makes up between 90% and 95% of the internet.

Examples of the Deep Web You are likely more familiar with the deep web than you realize. For instance, your Gmail inbox and Google Drive are part of the deep web because they are not publicly accessible.

Other examples include:

• Private databases: Company intranets, academic databases, and government resources that are not accessible to the public.
• Subscription services: Content behind paywalls such as news sites, streaming services, and online courses.
• Personal information: User-specific content like emails, online banking accounts, and health records.
• Unindexed websites: Pages not indexed by search engines due to being behind a login or having a no-index meta tag.
• Confidential corporate data: Internal communications, confidential reports, and proprietary data within a company’s private network.

What is the Dark Web?

The dark web, or darknet, is a small subset of the deep web. It is a collection of hidden sites that you can only access through a special browser like Tor. Activities on the dark web are anonymous by default, making it a hub for murky online transactions. A study by researchers at King’s College London examined over 2,700 darknet sites and found that about 60% of them hosted illicit content. However, legitimate websites also exist on the dark web.

To access the dark web, you need specialized search engines such as Candle, Not Evil, and SearX, all of which require the Tor browser. On the dark web, users and site administrators remain anonymous, making it difficult to shut down servers or impose geo-restrictions.

Examples of the Dark Web The dark web hosts various activities, including the buying and selling of firearms, drugs, counterfeit money, fake passports, and stolen accounts. However, it's also used by whistleblowers, journalists, and activists who seek anonymity to share their work. Notable examples include:

• Anonymous communication: Platforms like Tor and I2P for private communication.
• Black marketplaces: Sites for buying and selling illegal goods and services.
• Hacking forums: Communities where hackers exchange information, tools, and services.
• Illegal content: Sites hosting illicit content.
• Cryptocurrency transactions: Using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for anonymous financial transactions.

Key Differences Between the Deep Web and the Dark Web

While both the deep web and the dark web are not accessible through standard search engines, they have significant differences:

Aspect	Deep Web	Dark Web
Scope	Much broader, includes a wide range of content not indexed by search engines.	A small subset of the deep web, with a narrower focus.
Access	Does not require special browsers; most content is password-protected.	Requires a special browser like Tor for access, ensuring user anonymity.
Size	400 to 500 times larger than the surface web.	Only 0.01% of the deep web and 5% of the total internet.
Applications	Used for various legitimate purposes, including intranets, emails, and subscription services.	Often associated with criminal activity, but also used by whistleblowers and activists.
Security	Generally safer, but can be targeted by scams and phishing.	Higher risk due to potential exposure to malware, scams, and illegal content.

Are the Dark Web and the Deep Web Illegal?

Accessing the deep web or using the Tor browser to explore the dark web is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities, such as buying illicit goods or accessing illegal content, is against the law.

Risks of Accessing the Dark Web and Deep Web

Both the dark web and the deep web have their risks:

• Malware and viruses: The dark web can expose your device to malicious software.
• Scams and phishing: Both webs are targets for scammers seeking to steal personal information.
• Cybersecurity issues: Inadequate security measures can make you vulnerable to cyberattacks.
• Exposure to illegal activities: The dark web hosts illegal content that can have serious legal and ethical implications.

Benefits of Using the Dark Web

Despite its negative reputation, the dark web has some legitimate uses:

• Enhanced privacy and anonymity: Essential for journalists, activists, and whistleblowers.
• Access to information: Provides uncensored information in regions with heavy internet censorship.
• Secure communication: Ensures confidential communications.
• Innovative marketplaces: Offers niche products and services not found on the surface web.

How to Access the Deep Web Safely

To safely access the deep web, practice basic online hygiene:

• Use a VPN: Encrypts your internet traffic and protects your privacy.
• Follow safe password practices: Use unique passwords and consider a password manager.

How to Access the Dark Web Safely

Navigating the dark web requires additional precautions:

• Download the Tor browser from the official site: Ensure you have the genuine Tor browser to avoid malware.
• Use a VPN: Enhances your anonymity and security.
• Take security precautions: Use burner emails, encrypt messages, and verify site authenticity through trusted sources like Reddit communities (/r/deepweb, /r/onions, /r/Tor).

By understanding the differences and taking proper precautions, you can navigate both the deep web and the dark web safely and responsibly.