Before learning how to browse anonymously, understand what you're currently exposing:
- IP address: Every website sees your IP address, which reveals your approximate location (city-level), ISP, and can be linked to your real identity through your ISP's records.
- Browser fingerprint: Your screen resolution, installed fonts, browser version, operating system, timezone, language, and hardware configuration create a unique fingerprint. Over 90% of browsers have a unique fingerprint.
- Cookies and trackers: Third-party cookies follow you across websites. Google Analytics is on 85%+ of websites. Facebook's pixel tracks you even without a Facebook account.
- DNS queries: Your DNS requests (converting domain names to IP addresses) are typically sent to your ISP in plaintext, revealing every site you visit.
- Search history: Google stores every search you make, linked to your account and IP address. This data is used for advertising and can be subpoenaed.
Anonymous browsing addresses all of these leak points simultaneously.