Last reviewed: 2026-04-30
VPS for Tor Relays
A Tor relay VPS is a bandwidth-forward workload with low storage requirements and a higher need for policy awareness. Non-exit relays are usually simpler to operate than exit relays because traffic does not leave the Tor network from your server. uNode can fit relay operators who want predictable transfer and root access, but you should tune bandwidth limits, monitor abuse contacts, and understand the operational difference between guard, middle, bridge, and exit roles before deploying.
Recommended plans
Standard
2 vCPU, 4 GB RAM, 30 GB NVMe SSD, 10 TB transfer
More memory and CPU headroom for steady services or a few concurrent users.
Performance
4 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, 40 GB NVMe SSD, 10 TB transfer
Balanced production tier for busier apps, game servers, and build jobs.
Pro
8 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, 60 GB NVMe SSD, 10 TB transfer
Higher CPU and memory for heavier users, larger communities, or parallel workloads.
Software
Common software
- Tor
- Nyx
- Prometheus Node Exporter
- UFW
- Unattended Upgrades
Sizing
Traffic and storage
- Bandwidth
- 5-10 TB/month is common for constrained relays; higher tiers help if you allow more throughput
- Storage
- 20-40 GB is usually enough for the OS, Tor state, logs, and monitoring agents
- Planning note
- Set Tor RelayBandwidthRate and RelayBandwidthBurst to stay within the transfer budget you intend to use.
Setup
Setup approach
- Deploy: choose a plan, region, and OS image.
- Install: add only the packages your workload needs.
- Configure: set firewall rules, updates, backups, and monitoring.
Legal and AUP notes
Running a Tor relay is legal in many jurisdictions, but exit relays can generate abuse reports because third-party traffic exits through your IP. Follow the uNode AUP and avoid operating services that facilitate spam, malware, credential abuse, or prohibited traffic.
Read the Acceptable Use Policy