This talk presents a technical , research-oriented examination of the tor network from privacy engineering and traffic analysis perspective . Rather than focusing on advocacy or an overview the session explores how TOR functions at the protocol and network level , including circuit construction , relay roles , timings behavior and metadata exposure .
The discussion covers realistic threat models , lawful and ethical constraints and the distinction between academic traffic analysis and illegal deanonymization attempts . Emphasis is placed on understanding failure modes , observable patterns , and design trade offs inherent in anonymity systems
A clear, protocol-level understanding of how the Tor network operates, including circuits, relay roles, and traffic flow.
Insight into what anonymity systems protect effectively and where metadata leakage and timing patterns still occur.
Practical awareness of realistic threat models and the difference between theoretical, academic, and adversarial analyses.
An understanding of lawful and ethical boundaries in privacy and traffic analysis research.
A methodology for evaluating privacy preserving systems using open-source tools and transparent research practices.
Improved ability to reason about privacy engineering trade-offs rather than relying on assumptions or myth