AdGuard DNS
Network-level ad and tracker blocking with customizable DNS rules.
AdGuard DNS is a cloud DNS service that filters requests before they reach websites or apps, blocking known advertising, tracking, phishing, malware, and adult-content domains depending on the mode you choose. It can be used as a public DNS resolver or managed through a dashboard for device-level rules, request statistics, and custom allow/block lists.
Why it stands out
- Works at the DNS layer, so filtering can cover browsers and many apps across an entire device or router.
- Combines privacy filtering with parental-control options rather than treating them as separate tools.
- Provides per-device visibility into DNS requests, including what was blocked and when.
- Supports multiple modern encrypted DNS protocols, giving users flexibility across different clients and networks.
- Offers both simple public resolver addresses and a more customizable private DNS setup.
Good to know
- DNS-level filtering blocks domains, not individual page elements, so it may not remove every ad or cosmetic annoyance the way a browser extension can.
- Initial setup depends on the device, operating system, or router, so users may need to follow platform-specific configuration steps.
- Custom filtering and device-level statistics require using the managed private DNS/dashboard rather than only the basic public resolver addresses.
Photos
Families and small teams that want DNS-level filtering across phones, computers, tablets, and routers without installing separate blockers everywhere. Block ads and tracking domains for apps and browsers on a whole device or network. Set up child-safe filtering with adult-content blocking, safe search, and scheduled access rules. Review DNS request logs by device to understand what services are being contacted. Create custom domain allowlists or blocklists for specific devices.
Public DNS modes for standard filtering, family protection, or non-filtering secure DNS. Private DNS dashboard with per-device management and real-time request statistics. Custom domain blocking and allowlisting. Support for encrypted DNS protocols including DNSCrypt, DoH, DoT, and DoQ. Configuration guides for different operating systems, devices, and routers.
Alternative listings
An open-source blocker for ads, trackers, and cookie pop-ups.
Privacy & security tools / big-tech alternativesGhostery provides privacy-focused browser tools that block ads, limit tracking scripts, and automate rejection of many tracking cookies. Its broader site also includes WhoTracks.Me tracker reports and a privacy-news digest, giving users more visibility into the companies collecting data across the web.
0 votesVisit siteA free desktop browser built to reduce tracking and fingerprinting.
Privacy & security tools / big-tech alternativesMullvad Browser is a privacy-oriented web browser created by Mullvad VPN with the Tor Project. It is designed to make users look more alike online by limiting third-party tracking, browser fingerprinting, saved cookies, and telemetry.
0 votesVisit site
Similar sites elsewhere
- NextDNS — nextdns.io
- Control D — controld.com
- Quad9 — quad9.net
- CleanBrowsing — cleanbrowsing.org
1 of 5