DuckDuckGo: Meet the Privacy-Focused Rival to Google Search
April 17, 2023 By Monica Green
(Image Credit Google)
source: Kinsta
DuckDuckGo is a search engine that was launched in 2008. The company has positioned itself as a privacy-focused alternative to Google. Unlike Google, DuckDuckGo does not track user search history or sell user data to advertisers. This has made it an attractive option for those who prioritize their privacy online.
Privacy Features
DuckDuckGo offers several privacy features that set it apart from other search engines. One of the most notable features is the search engine's lack of tracking. DuckDuckGo does not track users or collect personal information, so there is no user profile to sell to advertisers. Additionally, the search engine uses HTTPS encryption, which encrypts user search queries and protects them from being intercepted by third parties.
Another feature that sets DuckDuckGo apart from other search engines is its "bangs." Bangs are shortcuts that allow users to quickly search specific websites or platforms. For example, typing "!w" before a search query will search Wikipedia. This feature can save users time and improve their search experience.
Search Results
DuckDuckGo's search results are generated from a variety of sources, including Yahoo!, Bing, and its own web crawler. The search engine uses algorithms to determine which results to show first, and users can adjust their settings to prioritize certain types of results, such as images or videos.
One potential drawback of DuckDuckGo's search results is that they may not be as comprehensive as those offered by Google. This is because Google has a larger index of web pages and is able to incorporate more data into its search results. However, DuckDuckGo's results are generally considered to be accurate and reliable.
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source: TheWindowsClub[/caption]
Mobile App
DuckDuckGo also offers a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. The app includes all of the same features as the desktop version, including bangs and encryption. Additionally, the app includes a feature called "Privacy Grade," which rates the privacy level of websites and identifies trackers.
Also read: Google Pixel Tablet Leak Suggests It May Have a Dedicated Privacy Switch
DuckDuckGo is a privacy-focused alternative to Google that offers several features designed to protect user privacy. The search engine does not track users or collect personal information, and it uses encryption to protect user search queries. Additionally, the search engine offers shortcuts called "bangs" and has a mobile app that includes a "Privacy Grade" feature. While DuckDuckGo's search results may not be as comprehensive as Google's, the search engine is a solid choice for those who prioritize their privacy online.