What is the deep web vs dark web?
user - September 2, 2025
The Deep Web
This is the part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines like Google. It’s not shady by default—it just includes content that’s hidden behind logins, paywalls, or private databases. Examples are your online banking account, medical records, company intranets, or even subscription-based services like Netflix. Most of the deep web is completely legal and necessary; it’s just not publicly searchable.
The Dark Web
This is a much smaller section of the deep web that’s intentionally hidden and only accessible with special tools like Tor. The dark web is where you’ll find anonymous forums, marketplaces, whistleblower platforms, and unfortunately, some illegal activities. While it has a reputation for crime, it’s also used for privacy protection, free speech in censored regions, and secure communications.
In short:
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Deep web = everything not indexed by search engines (mostly normal, private stuff).
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Dark web = a secretive corner of the deep web requiring special access, often associated with anonymity and sometimes illegal activity.