How to use OnionShare

In a technology-driven world where every click and search is tracked, surfing the internet can feel more like a fishbowl than a public library. I mean, our privacy is consistently under threat, making it important to have tools that safeguard our online interactions. In between, a new tool has joined the world named “OnionShare.”.

It is a free and open-source solution designed specifically for secure file sharing. But it is being introduced to the world, even though very few people know about it. So with this article, we will cater to all individuals who value online privacy, especially journalists who handle sensitive information. So, let’s understand OnionShare.

What is OnionShare?

From the above, you got a brief overview, but still, you should know that OnionShare is a free and open-source tool that empowers you to securely share files anonymously. It leverages the power of the Tor network, which is known for its encrypted and anonymized communication channels. It means you can share sensitive documents or even collaborate on projects without worrying about surveillance. 

Besides that, the tool promises numerous benefits for users. These benefits are: OnionShare keeps your identity hidden; using the Toe network, it bypasses restrictions and censorship; and, most importantly, it is an easy-to-use tool. It is a complete package tool that comprises multiple benefits focused on privacy.

How does OnionShare work?

When you read that OnlineShare has such privacy-oriented features, you are curious to know how such a tool manages them. For this, I tried to figure it out and found that OnionShare has a hidden room in the Tor Network. And when you share files with OnionShare, it uploads them to the hidden room that you share with a special address. And anyone who has that unique address can access that hidden room and download the file. Here comes the magic, where no one can trace the location or identity of any person.

Apart from that, there are no central servers that seem to eliminate the risk of a third-party snooping on your data. More or less, it works as a direct, secure connection between you and the recipient that is hidden within the layers of the Tor network.

How to Use OnionShare

After a long read about OnionShare, this section seems to be an action-filled one where we will discuss how to get started with it. It includes first the download and installation procedure and further ideas about its usage. So below, let’s have a look at everything related to its usage. 

Installation procedure

OnionShare is available on both Windows and Mac. All you need to do is navigate to the OnionShare website and download the installer for your specific system. However, alongside this, Linux users have the opportunity to get OnionShare using tools like Flatpak or Snap packages. So these are the instructions to install it, whether on Windows or Mac. 

1. Visit the official OnionShare website.
2. Then look for a specific system download option.
3. Tap on it to start installing it on your device.
4. Once it downloads, follow the on-screen instructions and install it.
5. That’s all. OnionShare is now ready to serve you.

Sharing files with OnionShare

Follow the below-mentioned steps to learn how you can get started and share files with OnionShare.

1. Launch the OnionShare application.
2. Then select Share Mode from the main window.
3. Choose Browse Files, and select the files that you want to share.
4. OnionShare will create a unique onion address for your files. 
5. That’s it; everything is done from the sender’s end.

Accessing the shared files

In the previous section, we explained sharing files, but now questions arise about accessing the shared file from the recipient’s end. So these are the steps to access the shared file.

Note: The OnionShare’s shared link would be accessible through the browser, so ensure to download and install it first.

1. Launch Tor Browser.
2. Head to the search bar and insert the OnionShare shared link there.
3. Tor will now connect you to a hidden room and show you the shared files.
4. Tap the download button to download them to your device.
5. That’s it. In this way, you can access shared files.

Advantages and Limitations of OnionShare

Instead of sharing the advantages and limitations in a line-by-line manner, I am sure you will do the same in a tabular format. So that, along with the information, you will get a brief knowledge of what more outweighs you, whether it is beneficial to you or somewhere limited to you. So, look at the table below only.

Conclusion 

To sum up, in today’s digital age, safeguarding your online privacy is essential. OnionShare empowers you to do just that, offering a secure and anonymous way to share files. With its user-friendly interface and robust anonymity features built upon the Tor network, OnionShare is a powerful tool for activists, journalists, and anyone who values online privacy. So, keep experiencing it and enjoy hustle-free surfing.

Frequently asked questions