Brave: what it is and how to use it
Brave is a Chromium-based browser with tracker and ad blocking (Brave Shields) on by default, including fingerprinting protection. It is the practical choice for everyday use and for mobile, with the VPN on.
Overview
| Category | Browsers |
|---|---|
| KYC required | No |
| Open source | to verify |
| Price | Free (Oct 2026) |
| Official site | brave.com |
How do you use Brave?
- Type brave.com in the address bar and download the browser for your system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android or iOS); on a phone, use the official store.
- Keep Brave Shields on; it is active by default and blocks trackers and ads.
- Turn on the VPN before browsing: Brave alone does not hide your IP.
- Use it for everyday browsing and on mobile; for sensitive research on a computer prefer Mullvad Browser, and Tor Browser when the IP must not be tied to you.
- Do not mix: use one browser per purpose and avoid opening personal accounts in the browser you dedicate to your crypto identity.
What are the limits and cautions?
- It blocks trackers, but it does not make every user look the same as Mullvad Browser and Tor Browser do, and it does not hide your IP without a VPN.
- Brave's "private window with Tor" does not implement most of Tor Browser's protections, according to Brave's own support, which recommends Tor Browser for anyone who relies on strong protection.
Other Browsers tools
How to Buy Bitcoin Anonymously — See the book on Amazon