# Tor: What is the difference between Tor and Tor Browser?

Tor is the underlying network and software for routing traffic through relays.

2026-08-23
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Switchboard Tech Services


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## Short answer

Tor is the underlying network and software for routing traffic through relays. Tor Browser is a browser configured to use that network and to reduce tracking and fingerprinting. Opening Tor Browser does not automatically send traffic from your other apps through Tor. Use Tor Browser for web browsing rather than attaching an ordinary browser to a Tor proxy.

## Sources

[Tor Project: About Tor Browser](https://support.torproject.org/tor-browser/getting-started/about-tor-browser/), [Tor Project: Managing identities](https://support.torproject.org/tor-browser/features/managing-identities/).

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Canonical URL: https://switchboardtechservices.com/guides/tor-what-is-the-difference-between-tor-and-tor-browser/

Language: en-us

Content type: guide

Author: Switchboard Tech Services

Published: 2026-08-23T20:43:19+00:00

Description: A practical answer to What is the difference between Tor and Tor Browser?