What Is Onion Over VPN? A Brief Guide

Icon of a Onion with the text "The Power of Anonymity: Why Use Onion Over VPN for Ultimate Privacy?"

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“Are you tired of being tracked online? Do you want to make your computer system and network safe and secure?” If your answer is yes then look no further than Onion over VPN! This innovative technology combines the best of both virtual private networks and routing to create an impenetrable barrier to protect your identity.

In this blog post, we will explore what Onion over VPN is; how it works and why it’s essential for anyone who values their digital privacy.

What Is An Onion Routing?

An Onion Routing is a technique for anonymous communication over a computer. It maintains anonymity over the public network as its functionality provides features against eavesdropping and traffic analysis. 

The layers of encryption that protect messages in an network are comparable to the layers of it. The data is sent through a network of “onion routers ” or nodes which “peels” away a single layer to reveal the contents. 

With this routing data is routed over the network using a chain of relays each of which is only aware of the relays before and after it further enhancing anonymity.

What Is A VPN?

A Virtual Private Network connects your device to the internet in a private and secure manner to safeguard online privacy; get around geo-blocks; and access restricted websites.

It encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP Address to provide various advantages including speed, security, and anonymity so you can browse the internet safely. Some of the best virtual private network services include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Turbo VPN.

What Is Onion Over VPN?

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An Onion Over VPN is a feature offered by some virtual private network services that route your internet traffic through the network (also known as the Tor network) in addition to protecting your online activity via a regular virtual private network. 

This feature provides additional security and anonymity by combining the security and anonymity of the Tor network with a virtual private network. Your traffic is encrypted by the virtual private client and then transmitted through the Tor network when you connect to an Onion Over Virtual private server. 

Some of the best virtual private services that offer Onion Over Virtual private network include NordVPN; ExpressVPN; and virtual private network Overview.

How Does The Onion Network Work?

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The Onion network is a technique for anonymous communication over a computer network. In its network: messages are covered with layers of encryption to transmit data through a series of network nodes like the layers (onion routers). The message or data arrives at the destination when the final layer is decrypted.

How To Set Up Onion Over VPN?

To set up Onion over virtual private network: You can follow these general steps:

  • Download and install the Tor browser
  • Download and install the NordVPN
  • Open NordVPN application 
  • Log in using your credentials
  • Scroll to the server list on the left side of the interface
  • Click on Onion over VPN

Note: Different virtual private network Providers may have slightly different steps for setting up an Onion over virtual private network which is why we recommend NordVPN as it requires you to use their app instead of using a third-party app like OpenVPN.

What Are Safety Precautions Of Onion Over VPN?

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When using an Onion Over Onion Over Virtual private network; There are several safety precautions you can take to ensure that your online activity remains secure and private. Here are some tips:

 

  • Select Reputable VPN Providers
  • Use Strong Passwords
  • Two Factor Authentication
  • Keep Your Software Up-To-Date
  • Avoid Downloading Suspicious Files
  • Use Anti Virus Software
  • Be Aware Of Phishing Scams

Select Reputable VPN Providers

NordVPN, Cloudwards, and virtual private network Overview are some of the most reliable virtual private network Providers. They not only help in connecting to onion routers but also secure your network from virtual private network Detection Systems and Cybercrimes.

Use Strong Passwords

When we suggest the term “strong password” we are not referring to the suggested passwords or passwords which you save on the chrome. Use a unique password for each account and do not use the same password for multiple accounts to avoid malicious people guessing your passwords.

Two Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by asking for a verification code every time someone tries to log into your account. This authentication method makes it impossible for malicious people to steal your data and identity.

Keep Your Software Up-To-Date

We suggest you update your operating system web browser and other software up to date. You should update your operating system to Windows 11 (only if you are using Windows 7, 8, 10 and XP) because Microsoft does not update older versions of Windows (which means that viruses can easily infect your system or destroy your data). 

The latest versions of software (Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop) and games no longer work in older versions of Microsoft Windows.

Avoid Downloading Suspicious Files

Always remember one thing, “Nothing is free in this world except bad advice and unhealthy relationships.” Therefore whenever someone offers you a link to download free movies, games, documents, and other files, you have to refuse them and only download files from trusted sources.

Be cautious when downloading files from unsecured websites because they may contain viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks to steal your data and identity.

Use Anti Virus Software

Antivirus Softwares not only protect your computer and networking system from viruses and cyberattacks but also boost your productivity by ensuring no one could get your IP Address or attack your system.

Be Aware Of Phishing Scams

Many websites or influencers claim to provide free guides or books related to your field which can provide great career opportunities but you must provide your name and email address to access the free guide or ebook.

Why Do You Need Onion Over VPN?

Onion Over Virtual private network is a technology that combines the use of a virtual private network and the Tor network to enhance the security and anonymity of your internet traffic. 

It works by routing your data through a virtual private network server before it reaches the Tor network which consists of relay nodes that obscure your IP address and destination. An Onion over virtual private network gives you the advantages of both a virtual private network and Tor in one solution.

In other words, An Onion Over Virtual private network provides maximum security and anonymity while browsing the web. It encrypts your traffic to hide it from any nosy snoops like hackers or your internet service provider. 

Your encrypted traffic is forwarded to a virtual private network server which then transfers it to a randomly chosen Tor entry node. You can access the Tor network without using the Tor Browser by utilizing a virtual private network service that offers the “Onion Over Virtual private network” capability to keep your identity safe.

How To Use Onion Over VPN?

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We recommend you use Onion Over virtual private network with NordVPN by following the given steps:

  1. Open the NordVPN app
  2. Find the “Specialty servers” category
  3. Press on “Onion Over VPN” 
  4. Wait until you’ve successfully connected
  5. Open your browser
  6. Now connect to Tor network websites

Note: Don’t use Firefox Browser because it doesn’t open onion websites and your data can be leaked at any point as it’s not a reliable browser.

Who Should Use Onion Over VPN?

You should use Onion Over VPN if:

  1. Anonymity is of the utmost importance
  2. You cannot access the Tor Network directly
  3. You are a journalist whistleblower or activist

An Onion Over VPN can boost security and make it more difficult to monitor your online activities by routing your Internet traffic first through a virtual private network server and then through the Tor network. 

It is especially useful for people working with sensitive data since it provides extra encryption. There is no need to use an Onion or Tor Routing for normal browsing activity because it can slow down your internet speed and you won’t be able to watch a normal Youtube video.

When Don’t You Need Onion Over VPN?

An Onion Over virtual private network is not necessary for normal browsing activity. If you want to browse the internet, watch the streams, download piracy software, and play video games while keeping your identity and IP Address a secret we would advise you to use NordVPN. 

Similarly a Tor Routing should not be used while streaming or downloading content because the streams and downloads will take ages to load which leads to a frustrating experience.

According to our cybersecurity statistics report you do not need Onion Routing if:

  1. You are browsing the internet casually
  2. You are accessing identifying websites (e.g. social media)
  3. The most crucial factor is speed

What Are The Drawbacks and Dangers of Onion Over VPN?

What Are The Drawbacks and Dangers of Onion Over VPN and the side icon shows the logo of the Onion Over VPN

An Onion over VPN has a significant impact on the speed of your internet Due to the extensive encryption of both the virtual private network and the Tor network. 

Consequently, speed-sensitive tasks or casual browsing are inappropriate uses for an Onion over VPN as slow connection speeds are one of the biggest disadvantages of using Onion Routing. 

You should use NordVPN because not all virtual private network service providers offer Onion beyond VPN capacity.

Final Thoughts

After reading the article up till now you must be able to understand that an Onion Over VPN is a technology that combines virtual private network technology with Onion routing to create a nearly impenetrable barrier that provides additional security to individuals who value digital privacy and security.

When using an Onion Routing, your device first connects to a virtual private network server and then to the Tor network to encrypt your traffic by the virtual private network client and then sent it through the Tor network. 

If you have any questions regarding virtual private networks and Onion Routing, feel free to comment and ask whatever comes to your mind after reading this article. You can also email us your queries if you consider tightening your cybersecurity and getting the best NordVPN services around the world.

Customer Reviews for NordVPN: In-Depth Review, Tests, and Stats

IR Irina
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Connection issues with MLB.TV
So I had some connection issues on my iOS device (iPad) with MLB.TV streaming, and representative named Garfield SOLVED my unique problem that I had spent hours researching and tackling with no luck before today! Garfield was extremely patient, personable, and very knowledgeable. Through multiple approaches and problem-solving steps, he created a solutuon that worked. Way to go, and definitely a returning NordVPN customer here. Thank you, Garfield.
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May, 2 2023
CH Christina
trustpilot 5 star
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Prompt customer service
My subscription automatically renewed and a payment was taken, which I didn’t want as I haven’t been using the service. I contacted the company and received a prompt and efficient response where my subscription was reversed and the payment was returned. If only every company was so easy to contact and communicate with!
Date of Experience:
May, 6 2023
MW Michael White
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I would highly recommend
Excellent service and easy to use to protect your privacy. I have NVPN on my laptop, iPhone and fire stick, great value for money.
Date of Experience:
December, 15 2023
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