Surface web

• The open web, or surface web, is the “visible” surface layer of the internet.
• All commonly public-facing websites accessed via traditional browsers like Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, and Firefox are contained here. Websites are usually labeled with registry operators like “.com” and “.org” and can be easily located with popular search engines.
• This collective of websites and data makes up under 5% of the total internet.

Deep web

• The deep web rests below the surface and accounts for approximately 90% of all websites.
• The deep web refers to hidden web pages that are not indexed by search engines. This lack of indexing is intentional on the part of many service providers, as it helps to protect private information.
• This part of the web contains everything from password-protected sites and data not accessible via public web pages to private intranets, academic content, and more.

Dark Web

• The dark web is a guarded subspace within the deep web, hosting encrypted websites that are accessible only via specific browsers. 
• To access the dark web, users must install a private browser, like the TOR Browser, use a Virtual Private Network, and ensure their computer remains safe and secure.
• This portion of the web is commonly associated with illegal activities such as arms and drug trafficking, scams, and espionage. Many users browse the dark web every day for legitimate reasons also.