Tor acts like a VPN (Virtual Private Network) by connecting to a network of servers that exchange information between one-another, thus making its activity difficult to trace. However, Tor is a browser, not something that affects your computer's internet connection as a whole, which means that only things that you do with Tor itself are private.

I don't know the relative security of Tor versus VPNs. It probably depends on the VPN (there are multiple VPN services, and they are probably different). From what I understand, Tor is less secure than many VPNs.

I haven't heard of Tor, but I found the link below and sent it to my brother Richard, who runs a company that offers "customer-focused solutions that integrate geo-spatial technologies and data on web and mobile platforms". Here's his reply:

"The explanations of Tor and VPNs in the Panda Security article are good (link below). The final conclusion that a VPN is "better" is kind of subjective. Both provide an increased level of anonymity for your actions on the internet. The first thing a person needs to do is evaluate why they need improved anonymity and then pick a tool that meets those needs.

Tor is a specialized web browser. You'd use it if you're trying to evade the NSA, you're the next Edward Snowden, you're after malicious activities (which I assume you are not).

A VPN is a tool that securely connects one computer network to another. It's commonly used to connect remote sites in a corporate environment. But it is also used to route your traffic outside of a country that has restrictions.

So you need to know what problem you're solving before you can decide which tool to use." Tor is a free browser that will encrypt your requests, but it's slow, doesn't have access to all sites and can lead to legal trouble. Meanwhile, VPNs are fast, encrypt all your traffic, give you access to any Internet site and put you in control of your intended location. Oct 19, 2019.