Best free browsers for privacy and security in 2024

Unfortunately, we live in an era when the words “free” and “secure” rarely go together. Add to these the word “browser” and you’ve got yourself a solid puzzle. Luckily, we’re here to solve it!

Choosing a private and secure internet browser is something to really get your teeth into, especially if you’re looking for a free one. There are too many options and mainstream options like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are out of the question. Hopefully, this article can help!

Below, you can see the list of the best free internet browsers that are protective of your privacy and security. Keep scrolling to see which VPN providers go well with them to make you nearly untraceable online.

What is the best free and secure browser?

With internet browsers, it’s nearly impossible to find the ones that don’t abuse your data, especially among the free options. After all, they have unlimited access to your online activities. The browsers listed below, however, employ rigorous measures to minimize online tracking, such as concealing your IP address and encrypting your traffic. 

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Below, we analyze these browsers in more depth. However, due to a variety of user-specific needs, we leave the final choice to you. That being said, we still recommend using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added online protection. They are perfect for concealing your online activities, protecting your identity, and keeping snoopers at bay.

Best free browsers for privacy and security, in-depth analysis

The above are the best free online browsers having considered the most important aspects of privacy and security. Still, individual user needs can differ tremendously. We hope this detailed analysis of each service provider can help you make an informed choice for yourself.

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Testing methodology – ProPrivacy ​​criteria for choosing the most secure and private free internet browsers

Similarly to their needs, users’ criteria for choosing the best free internet browser can differ tremendously. And, while most other merits of a good browser are debatable, one thing is for sure – your search engine should be private and secure, but also capable of giving results swiftly. 

To ensure our recommended browsers both perform and protect, we established the following criteria:

• High privacy standards – It’s why you’re here after all. Protecting your privacy is paramount. We sought browsers that prevent data abuse by isolating visited websites, eliminating URL-tracking query parameters, offering built-in fingerprinting resistance, and blocking embedded trackers and ads.
• Developers’ background – Reputable free browsers usually come from reputable developers, with no (or minimum) records of leaking user data. Some missteps are acceptable, but in that case, prompt and corrective responses are what we’re looking for.
• Open-source software – We gave the advantage to the open-source software. Users should be able to verify the trustworthiness of their search engine themselves if they wish to do so.
• Transparent privacy policies – Honesty and transparency regarding data collection practices are key. Reputable browsers disclose collected data in easily comprehensible privacy policies, tending to user trust and understanding.
• Powerful search engine – All of the above doesn’t matter much if your internet browser is sluggish or irresponsive. Optimal private browsers deliver search results in the same manner as major providers. In other words, you need a search engine that simply works, but with fewer privacy intrusions and fewer ads.

How to switch to a more private browser?

This should not be a problem at all! To switch to a free browser that’s good for your privacy and security, all you need to do is follow these simple steps.

1. Choose a free browser according to your needs. We recommend Brave Browser for its privacy and efficiency. But check the other providers on this list too.
2. Close all open windows or tabs on your existing browsers.
3. Download your new browser directly from the vendor’s official website. Refrain from using third-party sources, they come with a whole new set of dangers.
4. Run the necessary installations.
5. Customize your browser through the installation wizard. If you’re opting for our recommended browsers, you’ll be able to import bookmarks from your prior browser.
6. Once installation is done, launch the browser and verify it works.
7. Remove/uninstall your old browser.

FAQs: Best free browsers for privacy and security

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about free browsers that promise privacy and security.

[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”Are private browsers entirely secure?” answer=”While these browsers prioritize privacy and security, no browser is entirely immune to vulnerabilities. Users should regularly update their browsers and employ additional security measures like VPNs for enhanced protection.” /]]

[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”Do private browsers support extensions and add-ons?” answer=”Yes, many of these browsers support a wide range of extensions and add-ons, allowing users to customize their browsing experience while maintaining privacy and security.” /]]

[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”Is Incognito mode really private?” answer=”No, the websites you visit can still track your activity through methods like cookies, fingerprinting, and IP address tracking. Incognito mode does not prevent websites from collecting information about your browsing habits. Even your ISP can still see your browsing activity in Incognito mode. They can track the websites you visit, the data you transmit, and the duration of your sessions. Bottom line, Incognito mode doesn’t do much for you apart from hiding your activity from other users of the same device.
” /]]

Conclusion

By choosing a browser that prioritizes privacy, users can enjoy a safer and more secure online experience. There are many free and private search engine options out there. However, the best free private browser for you is the one that aligns with your privacy preferences, browsing habits, and security needs. 

It’s advisable to explore different options, experiment with features, and compare the transparency of various browsers’ privacy policies before you pick a service for yourself. Here are the free private browsers to consider once again: 

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