The internet is an amazing place, but it is also a dangerous one where the privacy you might hope for – or even expect – is practically non-existent. And this is precisely why Ghostery Dawn exists. It is a private suite that has an ultra-private web browser at its heart, complete with tools and add-ons that go further to place you in complete control of your online privacy.

In the name of transparency, the software is open source so anyone is free to examine its source code to check that there is nothing untoward going on; suspicions and doubt are entirely understandable.

In addition to helping you to block online ad, tracking cookies and other privacy-invading components, Ghostery Dawn also features a private search engine. This helps to ensure that information about the things you look for online will not fall into the wrong hands. As you use the browser to explore the internet as you usually would, it can provide you with statistics about just how much it is helping to protect your privacy.

But the features of Ghostery Dawn are about more than just maintaining your privacy; there are some pleasing side-effects. Smart ad-blocking as well as block on tacking components and other unwanted pages elements helps to speed up page load times meaning that your online experience is faster and less frustrating.

There are, of course, some tracking components that are essential for the smooth running and proper operation of certain websites, and this is why it is great that Ghostery Dawn gives you complete control over what is blocked and what is not. If you want, or need in some circumstances, to stick with your current browser, there is an extension available for all of the major players that will help to give your privacy a boost.

Just about the only downside is the cost. A subscription will set you back $4.99 per month or $47.88 per year. The price not only helps to cover development, but also ensures an ad-free search experience in the Ghostery Glow search engine, and gives you additional protection against tracking components.