How Opera protects you
You have the absolute right to privacy and security online. Opera's secure private browser is built to protect you, and your data, first and foremost. See below how we help you browse privately and securely, and avoid being tracked.
With Opera, your privacy and security come first
Browse faster
Ad blocker
Opera’s ad blocker doesn’t just remove irritations and distractions online. If you’re on a limited data plan, ad blocker can save you a great amount of your mobile data. Slow page loading, even in the best private browser, is often the result of ads and the analytics code that accompanies them, so blocking them has a noticeable result. Most importantly, Opera’s ad blocker also stops the increasing number of malicious ads that can harm both your computer and your data security.
Browse privately
Tracker blocker
The tracker blocker in Opera does exactly that. Block online trackers like analytic scripts, tracking pixels and other methods of data collection. Like Opera’s ad blocker, the tracker blocker helps pages load faster, saves your mobile data and further protects you from malicious code. Beyond that, tracking protection simply guards your privacy because your personal data should not be given away or used, especially without your consent.
Browse securely
Free VPN
A secure browser VPN may not be necessary at home, but it is definitely recommended for anyone using public Wi-Fi. Connecting to webpages through Opera’s VPN (virtual private network) means that the data sent back and forth is encrypted and routed through a remote server. The encryption helps secure your data from prying eyes, while the remote server disguises your IP address and location for more privacy. No extensions are necessary for a safe browser.
More from opera
More ways that Opera protects you
Opera’s trusted and proven security features are built right into our safe browser, so you don’t need to install third-party extensions for general, or enhanced, privacy.
Ad blocker
Clutter-free, fast and secure browsing.
Free VPN
Secures your internet connection and masks your location.
Tracker blocker
Blocks tracking attempts for safe browsing.
Cryptojacking protection
Ad blocker also blocks cryptomining scripts.
Private browser
Deletes your browsing history and data when closed.
Site settings control
Choose what data sites can access and set permissions.
How to set up privacy and security features
Secure and private browsers are different for everyone, because we all use different websites and generate different user data. To set up and manage Opera's various security and privacy features for your specific needs, follow the steps below.
How to turn on your browser VPN
When you connect to websites through a secure browser VPN (virtual private network) server, your browsing data is encrypted and your public IP address changes to a virtual IP address. To enable Opera's free built-in VPN service:
- Go to Settings (Alt+P) Advanced > Privacy & security.
- Under VPN, click Enable VPN.
- A built-in VPN badge will appear at the left end of your address and search bar. Click the badge and toggle your web browser VPN on or off.
How to block ads and how to block pop ups
Opera's Ad blocker makes websites load faster and look cleaner by blocking ad scripts. It also includes tracking protection and stops cryptocurrency mining scripts for a secure browser. To enable these security features:
- Go to Settings (Alt+P)
- Under Privacy protection, toggle on Block ads and surf the web up to three times faster.
- Below that, toggle on Block trackers.
Both of these security features can also be turned on or off from the Easy Setup menu in the top-right corner of your web browser (under the X).
How to enable Crypto Mining protection
Cryptojacking is when someone hijacks your computer and runs scripts to mine cryptocurrency. To stop cryptocurrency mining from happening on your computer:
- Go to Settings (Alt+P).
- Under Privacy protection, click Manage Lists.
- Click NoCoin (Cryptocurrency Mining Protection) to enable this security feature.
How to adjust site settings controls
Opera browser site settings let you customize your internet browser's privacy features and browser security. To set your privacy and security controls:
- Go to Settings (Alt+P) Advanced > Privacy & security.
- Under Privacy and security, click Site settings.
There you can adjust all of your browser web site permissions and security features - like who can access your camera, microphone, location, and data. Manage cookies, choose which sites can play sounds or show images, and adjust many other details concerning what websites can do, for a secure browser.
How to browse privately
Private browsers are secure browsers. When you use a private web browser window, your internet history and activity data is removed as soon as you close all private windows. You can open a private window with a keyboard shortcut, or through the menu.
- On Windows or Linux: Ctrl+Shift+N or O Menu > New private window.
- On Mac: ⌘+Shift+N or File > New Private Window.
When all private windows are closed, Opera will remove the associated browsing history, cache items, and cookies. Because of this, private tabs or windows cannot be recovered from the history or tab menus.
How to change search engines
Opera’s default browser search engine is Google, but you can change it or add private search engines like DuckDuckGo. To change, manage, or add search engines:
- Go to Settings (Alt+P).
- Under Search engine, select your preferred search engine from the dropdown menu or click Manage search engines.
How to enable Opera’s password manager
Secure browsers use passwords. You can choose whether Opera saves your passwords for auto sign-in, as well as edit or remove them. To adjust the password manager settings:
- Go to Settings (Alt+P) Advanced > Privacy & security.
- Under Autofill, select Passwords.
Read more about security and privacy settings on our Help pages.
You deserve a better browser
Free VPN, ad blocker and Flow - Just a few of the must-have features built into Opera for faster, smoother and distraction-free browsing.