Tor: Bypass Captive Portals

TL;DR

Using Tor can often bypass captive portals (those login pages you get at Wi-Fi hotspots). This guide shows how to configure Tor Browser to achieve this, covering common issues and troubleshooting steps.

Steps

1. Download and Install Tor Browser:
• Go to the Tor Project website and download the appropriate version for your operating system.
• Follow the installation instructions.
2. Configure Tor Browser:
• Open Tor Browser. It will automatically connect to the Tor network. This may take a few moments on first launch.
• Once connected, try accessing a website (e.g., google.com). If you’re still redirected to the captive portal page, proceed to the next steps.
3. Bypass with Tor’s New Identity:
• Click the onion icon in the top-left corner of the Tor Browser window.
• Select “New Identity”. This will restart Tor Browser with a new circuit, often bypassing the captive portal detection. Repeat this 2-3 times if necessary.
4. Check your IP Address:
• After using New Identity, verify that your IP address has changed and is routed through Tor. You can use a website like check.torproject.org or whatismyip.com.
5. Configure DNS Settings (If Still Not Working):
• Sometimes, the captive portal forces specific DNS servers. Tor Browser usually handles this, but you might need to manually configure it if issues persist.
• Within Tor Browser settings (accessible via the hamburger menu > Settings), search for “DNS”. Ensure that “Use Tor’s DNS” is enabled.
6. Bypass with a Proxy Setting (Advanced):
• If you know the IP address of an external, trusted server, you can try using it as a proxy within Tor Browser settings. Use this cautiously and only with servers you trust! This is generally not recommended unless you have specific knowledge of network configurations.
• In Tor Browser Settings, search for “Proxy”. Configure the SOCKS5 proxy to point to an external IP address and port (e.g., 127.0.0.1:9050). This is unlikely to be needed in most cases.
7. Troubleshooting Common Issues:
• Persistent Redirects: If you’re repeatedly redirected, try clearing Tor Browser’s cookies and site data (Settings > Privacy & Security > Clear Data).
• Network Connectivity Problems: Ensure your internet connection is stable. Try restarting your router or connecting to a different Wi-Fi network if possible.
• Captive Portal Detection Methods: Some captive portals use more sophisticated detection methods that Tor may not always bypass. In these cases, alternative solutions (e.g., using a VPN) might be necessary.

Important Considerations

• Security: While Tor provides anonymity and can bypass captive portals, it’s crucial to remember that it doesn’t guarantee complete security. Be cautious about the websites you visit and the information you share while using Tor.
• Speed: Tor connections are generally slower than direct internet connections due to the routing through multiple relays.
• Legality: Using Tor is legal in most countries, but it’s essential to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding online privacy and anonymity.