# Tor: What should I consider before running an exit relay?

An exit relay's IP address appears to websites as the source of users' traffic, so abuse reports and service blocks may reach its operator.

2026-08-24
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Switchboard Tech Services


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## Short answer

An exit relay's IP address appears to websites as the source of users' traffic, so abuse reports and service blocks may reach its operator. The Tor Project advises against running an exit relay from home. Review hosting-provider policies, local legal advice where relevant, an abuse-contact process, and the Project's operator requirements before enabling exits.

## Sources

[Tor Project: Relay types](https://community.torproject.org/relay/types-of-relays/), [Tor Project: Relay requirements](https://community.torproject.org/relay/relays-requirements/).

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Language: en-us

Content type: guide

Author: Switchboard Tech Services

Published: 2026-08-24T05:23:52+00:00

Description: A practical answer to What should I consider before running an exit relay?