VIDEO: How to Configure Tor Browser Bridges on macOS
Tor bridges keep you connected when networks block access, helping you stay private and in control of your browsing.
Privacy has become a pressing concern, with governments tightening control and corporations collecting vast amounts of personal data. Tor Browser offers a way out, giving users an anonymous internet experience that helps protect both privacy and safety.
Yet there are moments when the Tor network is blocked, or when you simply prefer to mask the fact that you’re using it. That’s where Tor bridges come in; they let you connect even when access is restricted, while keeping your usage less visible. Here’s how to configure them on macOS.
How to Configure Tor Browser Bridges on macOS
Step 1: Launch Tor Browser, go to Launchpad → Tor Browser
Step 2: On the first connect screen, click Tor Network Settings (or later via ⋯ → Settings → Connection)
Step 3: To turn on bridges, go to the Bridges section, find the option to Request bridges, and click it. Enter the CAPTCHA code and click Connect
Step 4: To configure bridges, choose Select a built-in bridge. Pick a transport:
- Snowflake – usually best when Tor is blocked; easy to try first.
- obfs4 – reliable, widely supported; good if Snowflake is unstable.
- meek-azure – It's a last-resort option in heavily censored environments, though it can be slow due to bandwidth limits.
Then click Connect.
If you connect successfully, you’re done. If not, try the other transport.
Ogbonda Chivumnovu
Conclusion
Configuring bridges may seem like a small tweak, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to keep Tor working smoothly when networks try to get in the way. By setting them up, you’re not just bypassing restrictions; you’re reinforcing your right to browse without interference, protecting your identity, and keeping your internet use in your control. In a world where surveillance and censorship are growing, this step ensures your access to information stays open and secure.
