Relay
A relay is a Tor node that forwards traffic for others. Relays can be guard, middle, or exit — depending on configuration and flags. Each operator runs their relay independently; the Tor network has no central operator structure.
Roles of a relay
Not every relay takes every role. Directory authorities assign flags: Guard, Exit, Fast, Stable, and others. A relay with the Exit flag can send traffic onto the clearnet; a Guard flag marks trusted entry points.
Independent operators
Thousands of organizations and individuals worldwide run relays. The Tor Project operates only a small share. Decentralization is central to the trust model — no single operator sees the full path.
Bandwidth and cost
Relay operators donate bandwidth. Tor Metrics shows publicly how many relays are active and how much capacity is available.
Category: Network
This page is a short glossary definition, not a full encyclopedia article. See the Tor glossary A–Z for the rest of the set.