For anyone concerned about online privacy and security, Tor Browser is an extremely important alternative to traditional browsers. Designed to help keep users anonymous and bypass restrictions put in place by governments, version 11.5 has arrived with even more powerful options.

Over the years, it has become easier and easier to use the Tor Browser, with complex configuration options made available to the average user without the need for special knowledge. With the release of software version 11.5, things have been made even easier with the introduction of automatic censorship detection and circumvention with the new Connection Assist feature.

For users in countries where the internet is restricted or censored, accessing certain sites can be incredibly difficult – even when using Tor which itself can be blocked. Previously, configuring bridge connection options that bypassed these restrictions was tricky, and not something everyone would be comfortable with.

The new Connection Assist automatically downloads the most suitable settings wherever you are in the world, allowing you to bypass the obstacles that stand in your way. The fact that the whole process is fully automated is a real boon, opening up the world of Tor to a group of users who previously would have found it too complicated.

The latest version of the Tor Browser sees a significant upgrade and overhaul of the Tor network settings – starting with the renamed connection settings. The redesign means your last known online status can be accessed here for easy access. There is also the diagnostic option to test your connection without Tor.

There are also settings for the new Connections Assist, as well as new bridge-related options. A deck card stack is used to store information about saved decks, and there are new sharing options as well. Additionally, the process of adding a new bridge has been streamlined and simplified.

In the past, the Tor Browser came with the HTTPS-Everywhere extension, but this is no longer required. Indeed, the browser now has HTTPS-only mode enabled by default. The team behind the browser said the decision to make this change was made based on feedback from the developers of Firefox, on which Tor Browser is based.

Other changes include expanding the range of supported fonts, improving site appearance, and improving the overall browsing experience.

Download the new version here.