Getting Started with the Darknet
This getting started guide will walk you through every tool and concept you need to understand before accessing darknet markets, communicating securely, and protecting your identity online.
Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced user looking to improve your operational security, this guide covers everything from setting up a secure operating system to encrypting your messages with PGP and using cryptocurrency privately.
What You Will Need
- Secure OS: Tails (recommended for beginners) or Whonix (advanced). Never use your regular OS.
- Tor Browser: Pre-installed with Tails and Whonix. Your only way to access .onion sites.
- PGP Software: For encrypting messages and verifying links. Pre-installed on both.
- Password Manager: KeePassXC recommended. Never reuse passwords.
- Cryptocurrency: Monero (XMR) is the gold standard. Bitcoin can be used with extra precautions.
How Long Does Setup Take?
If starting from scratch, expect 4 to 8 hours spread across one or two sessions:
- Installing Tails or Whonix: 1-2 hours
- Learning PGP encryption: 1-2 hours
- Setting up cryptocurrency: 1-2 hours
- Reading market safety guides: 1-2 hours
Once complete, each subsequent session takes only minutes. The time investment is worth the security it provides.
- Using your regular OS (Windows/macOS leak info)
- Not encrypting your address with PGP
- Reusing usernames or passwords across accounts
- Trusting market-side encryption (encrypt locally!)
- Skipping link verification — phishing sites steal credentials
- Using Bitcoin without mixing or Monero
Recommended Reading Order
- Before You Start — essential safety mindset
- Operating Systems — install Tails or Whonix
- PGP Encryption — learn to encrypt, decrypt, and verify
- Cryptocurrency — set up anonymous payments
- Darknet Markets — choose markets, verify links, stay safe
- Shipping & Security — understand delivery risks
Credits & Acknowledgements
Version 2: Author: /u/Shakybeats | Co-Authors: /u/Thotbot, /u/WilliamGibson
Version 1: Author: /u/wombat2combat | Co-Authors: /u/Seraphim_X
Special thanks to the communities of /r/DarkNetMarkets and /r/DarkNetMarketsNoobs for proof-reading.