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Qwant features
Qwant is a search engine that presents itself as the European defender of privacy.
But beyond the nice promises, what is the real situation on the ground?
Let's take a critical look at its features.
1. Protection of personal data
Respect for privacy is Qwant's main focus.
- No Follow-up : the French search engine guarantees the anonymity of searches, a refreshing approach in a curious digital world.
- No Personal Data Recording : Your information remains inviolable, a strong value proposition in these times of digital surveillance.
2. Universal search
Qwant aspires to centralize access to search results on a single platform.
- Extended search : The ability to search web results, news, social networks and shopping platforms is remarkable.
- Global vision : It provides an overview of the information available on a given subject, which is a significant time-saver.
3. Chrome extension: Qwant ViPrivacy
The Qwant ViPrivacy extension for Chrome web browser reinforces privacy while browsing.
- Blocking Trackers and Cookies : Prevents access to ad trackers, tracking tags, and analysis modules.
- Default Search Engine : Qwant becomes your default engine, ensuring a search without tracking.
- Fewer Cookies : Reduces intrusive cookie banners on most sites visited.
- Open-Source : Increased transparency thanks to the publication of the extension source code.
The extension of web browser represents one more step by Qwant towards private and transparent web browsing.
4. Qwant Junior
A commendable initiative for the protection of young online users.
- Safe browsing : A safe environment for young users, filtering out inappropriate content.
- Encouraging Education : It encourages learning and discovery while keeping young users safe.
5. Qwant Maps
Privacy also extends to the mapping service called Qwant Maps.
- Respectful exploration : Exploring without tracking is an attractive proposition.
- Localization without Tracing : Find locations and get directions without sacrificing your life.
6. Qwant Mobile App
The Qwant mobile application extends privacy protection beyond the desktop.
- Protected browsing : Blocking tracking and cookies for serene mobile browsing.
- Qwant as a search engine : Searches without tracking, without advertising tracking and without selling personal data.
- Qwant ViPrivacy on Mobile : The application integrates the same protection features as the browser extension.
The Qwant mobile application transposes the promise of privacy-friendly browsing from desktop to mobile.
7. Qwant Drive by Shadow
Shadow is Qwant's cloud storage offering, focused on privacy.
- Pricing: £4.99/month for 2TB, 20GB free without ads or data mining.
- Security: Hosting in Europe, encryption in transit and on the client side.
- Synchronization: Desktop and mobile clients, compatibility with third party backup software.
- Automatic backup: Automatic upload of photos/videos via the mobile application.
- Partnership with Nextcloud: European design, hosting in France.
- Shadow PC compatibility: Link between Shadow Drive and Shadow PC for an optimal cloud experience.
- FAQs and Support: FAQ section to solve common questions.
Shadow stands out for its commitment to privacy, although its impact on the saturated cloud storage market remains to be seen.
Qwant is taking a bold step in the world of search engines by placing privacy at the heart of its offer. However, the path to mass adoption and market recognition can be full of pitfalls, especially when faced with established giants. Its functionalities respect the promise of privacy, but the challenge remains to convince a wider audience of the added value of Qwant in a market dominated by well-established players.
Security and Privacy with Qwant
Qwant offers secure browsing while respecting the confidentiality of Internet users and businesses.
Data protection
- No Data Collection: Your privacy remains intact during your research.
- Anti-Malware and Phishing Extension: Secure browsing by blocking threats.
Business Security with Qwant @Work
- Defense against Phishing and Cyber Malicious: Reduces online risks for your business.
- Ethical Data Approach: Adopt a positive CSR approach.
- Solution Made in France: Team and data center located in France for a secure alternative.
How does Qwant @ Work work
- Easy deployment: Qwant as the default search engine in your company.
- Enhanced Browser Extension: Blocks malicious sites, tracking, and advertising cookies.
- Home Customization: Adapt the display according to your preferences for a better experience.
Confidentiality and security are priorities for Qwant, offering a platform where online browsing is more respectful and secure.
Alternatives to Qwant
There are other search engines that share Qwant's commitment to privacy and data security.
1. DuckDuckGo
DuckDuckGo is a privacy-focused search engine, offering a trackless alternative to Google. It is known for its simplicity and its clean interface, in addition to not tracking or storing the personal information of Internet users.
Features
- Anonymity Guaranteed: No tracking of your searches or clicks.
- Browser Extension: Blocks cookies and secures connections.
- ! Bangs: Quick access to searches on third party sites.
- Easy Privacy Settings: Privacy options that are simplified and easily accessible.
- Instant Search: Fast answers for some queries directly in the search results.
Pricing
- Free: DuckDuckGo is free for all Internet users.
DuckDuckGo offers a great alternative for those who value privacy in their browsing experience. Its commitment to privacy and simplicity makes it a solid choice for a trackless search engine.
2. Startpage
Is Startpage positioned as the search engine that knows nothing about you?
It's the most private in the world, offering high-quality search results without tracking or storing user information.
Features
- Private Browsing: Anonymous search results thanks to a proxy.
- No Targeted Ads: No ads based on your search history.
- Anonymous Proxy: Visit websites through a proxy for more anonymity.
- Customization: Customize the look and feel of Startpage.
Pricing
- Free: Startpage is completely free to use.
Startpage offers peace of mind with its private browsing and anonymous proxy. For those looking to keep their search activities private, Startpage is a viable option.
3. Brave
Brave is more than just a search engine, it's a browser that focuses on privacy protection, security, and performance, while rewarding users for browsing.
Features
- Built-in Tracker Blocker: Prevents tracking of online activities.
- Brave Rewards: Earn Tokens by viewing non-intrusive ads.
- Faster browsing: Brave blocks ads and trackers for faster browsing.
- Extension Support: Compatible with most Chrome extensions.
Pricing
- Free: Brave and its core capabilities are free to use.
- Brave Premium: (Price not specified) Offers additional capabilities for an enhanced experience.
Brave goes beyond standard search engine functions by offering safe browsing and rewards for users, making it an attractive alternative for those looking to maximize privacy while browsing the web.
Conclusion
Qwant stands out as a privacy-friendly search engine, with a robust set of functions that promote safe browsing for both individual users and professional environments.
Its commitment to data protection, coupled with offerings like Qwant @Work, makes it a solid option for those looking to balance effective research and data security. However, there are alternatives like DuckDuckGo or Startpage for those who want to explore other private research opportunities.
The path that Qwant has taken, by focusing on privacy and by offering tools like Qwant Junior and Qwant Music, reveals a desire to offer a more respectful and rewarding online experience.
FAQS
What is Qwant?
A French search engine that respects privacy (no tracking, no targeted ads).
Is Qwant really private?
Yes, it does not store histories or IPs. RGPD compliant.
What are its strengths?
Here are its strengths:
- No tracking
- Junior version (safe for children)
- Qwant Maps (alternative to Google Maps)
- Eco-responsible research
Is it as powerful as Google?
Good for basic searches, a bit less so for complex queries (partly uses Bing).