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  • Best USB sticks for running Tails: Enhance your Dark Web security

    Navigating the dark web requires not just caution but the right tools to ensure security and anonymity. One of the most critical tools for users who value privacy above all else is Tails OS — a live operating system that you can start on almost any computer from a USB stick or a DVD. It aims to preserve your privacy and anonymity, helping you to use the internet anonymously and circumvent censorship. This guide will delve into the nuances of choosing the best USB stick for running Tails OS, essential for secure and efficient use of the dark web.

    What is the Darknet?

    The darknet is a part of the deeper parts of the internet that is not visible to the public or accessible through regular search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo. It is a subset of what is often referred to as the "deep web" — the larger part of the internet that includes all web pages that search engines cannot find. However, the darknet is particularly noted for its high level of privacy and anonymity compared to the surface web.

    Accessing the darknet requires specific software that hides the identity and location of its users. The most common tool for accessing the darknet is the Tor browser, which anonymizes user activity using a technique called onion routing. Onion routing encrypts internet traffic and routes it through random servers around the world, making user activity nearly impossible to trace.

    Other software that can access the darknet includes I2P (Invisible Internet Project) and Freenet. Each of these tools has unique mechanisms for maintaining privacy and anonymity but shares the common goal of creating a secure space for users to communicate and share information.

    The darknet is used for various purposes, some legal and others not. On the positive side, the darknet provides a platform for free speech, especially in countries where censorship and surveillance are prevalent. It allows activists, whistleblowers, and those persecuted to speak freely without fear of reprisal.

    However, the darknet is also known for less savory activities. Due to its anonymous nature, it can serve as a marketplace for the trade of illegal goods, such as drugs, weapons, and illicit materials. It is also a breeding ground for illegal services, including hacking and other cybercrimes.

    What is Tails OS?

    Tails is a free and open source operating system

    Tails OS is a live operating system that you can boot from a USB stick or a DVD. It is based on Debian GNU/Linux and is geared towards preserving privacy and anonymity. It achieves this by routing all internet connections through the Tor network, thereby anonymizing the user's online presence. Tails is built with the intention of leaving no trace on the machine it is used on, unless explicitly instructed by the user.

    Key features of Tails OS

    Tails OS is packed with features designed to protect user privacy:

    • Use of Tor network. Tails forces all its internet connections through the Tor network, which anonymizes the user's internet traffic by passing it through multiple servers around the world. This makes it extremely difficult for anyone to track the user's web activity or determine their location.
    • Statelessness (Amnesic Feature). By default, Tails does not store any information on the hardware it is run on. Once the user shuts down Tails, no trace of user activity is left on the computer, unless the user has set up persistent storage on the USB stick itself.
    • Encryption. Tails comes with built-in tools to encrypt files, emails, and instant messaging. This adds an additional layer of security, ensuring that even if data is intercepted, it remains unreadable.
    • No installation needed. Tails operates independently of the host computer's operating system. As a live OS, it can be launched from a USB stick or DVD on almost any computer, making it extremely portable and easy to use.

    Why use Tails OS?

    Tails OS is particularly valuable for users who need to protect their identities or sensitive data from being exposed:

    • Journalists reporting in sensitive political climates.
    • Activists who may be monitored by governmental or non-governmental organizations.
    • Lawyers communicating with clients in situations requiring confidentiality.
    • Business professionals who may want to protect proprietary information or conduct sensitive research.
    • Privacy enthusiasts and regular users who wish to ensure their personal data remains private and secure.

    Top picks for USB sticks suitable for Tails

    Data storage device

    When selecting a USB stick for Tails, especially for activities on the dark web, certain features stand out as must-haves:

    • Durability. The USB stick should be physically robust to withstand wear and tear, as it might be used in various environments.
    • Speed. USB 3.0 or later is recommended due to faster data transfer rates, which improve the overall performance of Tails OS.
    • Capacity. While Tails can run on a small amount of space, a USB stick with at least 16GB to 32GB is advisable to allow for persistent storage, enabling you to save changes and store files securely.
    • Security features. Some USB drives come with hardware encryption and other advanced security features that provide an additional layer of data protection.
    • Compatibility. The drive must be universally compatible with various systems and capable of booting on both BIOS and UEFI systems.

    Here are the best USB sticks currently available that meet these criteria and offer reliability for Tails users:

    SanDisk Extreme Pro USB 3.2

    USB flash drive

    Speed: Leveraging the capabilities of USB 3.2 Gen 1x1 technology, the SanDisk Extreme Pro offers exceptional read speeds of up to 420 MB/s and write speeds of up to 380 MB/s.

    Capacity: The SanDisk Extreme Pro USB 3.2 is available in various capacities, ranging from 128GB to 1TB.

    Features: One of the standout features of the SanDisk Extreme Pro is its SecureAccess software, which provides 128-bit AES file encryption and password protection.

    Durability: Constructed with a durable aluminum metal casing, the SanDisk Extreme Pro USB 3.2 is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use.

    Aegis Secure Key 3NX

    USB flash drive

    Speed: Equipped with USB 3.2 technology, the Aegis Secure Key 3NX offers superior data transfer speeds.

    Capacity: The Aegis Secure Key 3NX is available in multiple storage capacities, ranging from 2GB to 256GB.

    Features: The standout feature of the Aegis Secure Key 3NX is its robust security. It includes a built-in keypad for PIN input, which enables hardware-based 256-bit AES XTS encryption.

    Durability: The drive boasts a rugged, crush-resistant aluminum housing that protects it from physical damage and makes it water and dust-resistant.

    Kingston IronKey Keypad 200 Series

    USB flash drive

    Speed: The IronKey Keypad 200 Series utilizes USB 3.2 technology, providing users with fast data transfer speeds.

    Capacity: Available in storage capacities ranging from 8GB to 512GB, the IronKey Keypad 200 Series caters to a variety of data storage needs.

    Features: This series employs military-grade XTS-AES 256-bit hardware encryption, providing strong security against potential threats.

    Durability: Designed with a rugged, tamper-proof enclosure, the IronKey Keypad 200 Series is built to withstand physical shocks and environmental extremes.

    Corsair Flash Survivor Stealth

    USB flash drive

    Speed: The Corsair Flash Survivor Stealth utilizes USB 3.0 technology, which provides fast data transfer rates.

    Capacity: Available in capacities ranging from 64GB to 1TB, the Flash Survivor Stealth caters to a variety of storage needs.

    Features: The Corsair Flash Survivor Stealth is straightforward in its design but comes equipped with essential features that focus on performance and security.

    Durability: It is encased in an anodized, aircraft-grade aluminum housing that's waterproof up to 200 meters and vibration and shock-resistant.

    Kingston IronKey D500S

    USB flash drive

    Speed: Utilizing USB 3.2 technology, the Kingston IronKey D500S ensures fast data transfer speeds that facilitate efficient handling of large files and quick access to stored data.

    Capacity: The IronKey D500S is available in various capacities, from 8GB to 512GB, accommodating different needs.

    Features: The drive is equipped with military-grade XTS-AES 256-bit hardware encryption, ensuring comprehensive protection of sensitive data. It also features FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certification, which meets stringent regulatory compliance standards for data security.

    Durability: The IronKey D500S is built to endure tough conditions, featuring a rugged, waterproof metal casing that protects it from physical damage and environmental elements.

    Conclusion

    Choosing the right USB stick for Tails is pivotal for anyone looking to explore the dark web securely. By prioritizing durability, speed, capacity, and security features, you can ensure that your Tails experience is not only safe but efficient. The USB sticks recommended above provide a good starting point for anyone serious about their online anonymity and security. With the right preparation and equipment, navigating the dark web can be a secure, private experience.

    FAQs

    Why do I need a specific type of USB stick for Tails OS?

    Tails OS requires a USB stick that is fast, durable, and secure to ensure optimal performance and reliability. USB sticks with faster data transfer speeds (USB 3.0 or higher) provide smoother and quicker operations. Durability is important as the USB stick might be used frequently and in various environments. Some USB sticks also offer hardware encryption for additional data security.

    What size USB stick is recommended for Tails OS?

    A USB stick with a minimum capacity of 16GB is recommended for running Tails OS. This size allows not only for the operating system itself but also for some persistent storage. Persistent storage on Tails is used to save certain files, settings, and software across sessions, which are encrypted and stored on the USB stick.

    How do I set up Tails OS on a USB stick?

    To set up Tails OS on a USB stick, first, download the Tails OS ISO from the official Tails website. Then, use software like balenaEtcher to write the ISO file to your USB stick. Once the ISO is written to the USB stick, you can boot from it by restarting your computer and selecting the USB drive as your boot option from the BIOS settings.

    Is it safe to use Tails OS for accessing the dark web?

    Tails OS is designed to provide enhanced privacy and security by routing all connections through the Tor network and leaving no trace on the host computer. These features make it one of the safer options for accessing the dark web.

    Can I store other data on the USB stick used for Tails OS?

    Yes, you can store other data on the USB stick used for Tails OS if it has enough capacity. However, it’s important to manage storage wisely and ensure that sensitive data is securely encrypted, especially if you are using the persistent storage feature in Tails.

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