Internet privacy tools and web structure explained

Internet privacy and structure involve various layers of accessibility and security. Tools such as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and Private DNS serve different purposes in protecting user data. While a DNS translates domain names into IP addresses, a Private DNS uses encryption protocols like DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT) to prevent Internet Service Providers (ISPs) from tracking browsing requests. In contrast, a VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between a device and a remote server to secure traffic.

The internet is also categorized by how information is indexed. The Surface Web, or Clearnet, consists of content indexed by search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo. The Deep Web comprises approximately 90% of the internet and includes content that cannot be indexed by standard search engines, often used for data protection and privacy. This is distinct from the Dark Web, which utilizes specific encryption technologies to remain hidden.