The Environment
Establishing a safe configuration is the absolute prerequisite to network observation. Standard browsers are inherently insecure for hidden service operations.
- Install Tor Browser: Obtain the software exclusively from the primary project directory (torproject.org). Never use third-party repositories.
- Adjust Security Slider: Navigate to the shield icon and elevate the security level to "Safer" or "Safest". This restricts potentially malicious scripts from executing.
- Disable JavaScript: For maximal defense, enter about:config and toggle javascript.enabled to false.