The dark web is a subset of the deep web, a part of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines such as Google and Bing. The dark web exists on overlay networks called darknets which are heavily encrypted. Special software is required to access the dark web. The choice of software might vary depending on what is being accessed but Tor is a popular browser used for access. Other software include Freenet and I2P.
The word dark comes from anonymity on the dark web. The network cannot be accessed publicly through normal web browsers. Software used for access such as Tor actively hide the user's identity and location. Most of the websites on the dark web have a special .onion domain which can only be accessed via special browsers and software.
The dark web is mostly used by individuals or organizations who want to remain anonymous and avoid tracking. The dark web also offers secure communication to such organizations or individuals. Common users of the dark web include activists in oppressive regimes and whistleblowers. It also plays host to many illegal marketplaces, hacking forums and other anonymous forums.
The dark web is home to many unlocking tools. Unlocking tools built by hacker groups are usually marketed and sold on the dark web . There are also addons and modified versions of existing unlocking software.