About Startpage

Startpage was founded in 2006 by Surfboard Holding B.V. in the Netherlands as a privacy-focused search engine. It was created to offer Google’s search results without the tracking and data collection that Google itself performs. Startpage allows users to search the web with a guarantee of anonymity, positioning itself as a strong competitor to DuckDuckGo in the privacy sector.

Startpage provides search results powered by Google while removing all trackers and user-identifying data. It acts as an intermediary between the user and Google, ensuring that searches are private and do not contribute to user profiling or targeted advertising. Startpage also includes an "Anonymous View" feature, allowing users to visit websites without revealing their IP address.

Startpage continues to thrive as a popular privacy-first search engine, particularly among users in Europe. While it does not have the same global reach as DuckDuckGo, it remains a trusted choice for individuals seeking Google-quality results without sacrificing their privacy. Startpage's focus on transparency and security keeps it relevant in the growing market for privacy-respecting services.

About Startpage

• 2006: StartPage was launched by Surfboard Holding BV, a Dutch company, as a privacy-focused search engine. It initially operated under the name Ixquick, offering users a way to search the web without tracking or storing their personal data.
• 2009: StartPage introduced a feature allowing users to access search results via a proxy, enabling anonymous browsing of web pages. This feature further differentiated it as a privacy tool compared to mainstream search engines.
• 2016: Ixquick and StartPage were merged, consolidating under the StartPage brand. It continued to provide Google-powered search results while removing all identifying information from queries, offering users a way to access Google results privately.
• 2019: Privacy One Group, a subsidiary of System1, acquired a majority stake in StartPage. This acquisition raised concerns within the privacy community about the potential influence of a for-profit entity, but StartPage maintained its no-tracking policies.
• 2023: StartPage remained a popular choice among users seeking privacy-respecting search options. It continued to refine its interface and privacy tools, offering a user-friendly alternative for those looking to access Google’s search capabilities without the tracking.
• Legacy: StartPage is recognized for pioneering privacy-focused search, offering a middle ground for users who want access to Google results without compromising on privacy. Its proxy browsing feature remains a distinctive aspect of its service.

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