Advertisements can be intrusive, data-consuming, and annoying when using your mobile phone. Whether you’re playing a game, browsing the web, or using a free app, pop-ups and banners can disrupt your experience. Fortunately, there are various methods to block ads on your Android or iOS device. This guide will walk you through multiple strategies—ranging from browser settings and ad-blocking apps to DNS configurations and rooted device techniques.
Why You Might Want to Block Ads
- Improved Performance: Ads can slow down app and website loading times.
- Reduced Data Usage: Ads often consume data in the background.
- Better Privacy: Ads can track your activity and behavior.
- Cleaner Interface: Fewer distractions lead to a smoother user experience.
Method 1: Use an Ad-Blocking Browser
Many mobile browsers offer built-in ad-blocking features. Here are some popular options:
1. Brave Browser
Brave blocks ads and trackers by default and is available for both Android and iOS. It also offers additional privacy features and fast performance.
2. Firefox with Add-ons
Firefox allows the installation of ad-blocking extensions like uBlock Origin or Adblock Plus on Android. On iOS, Firefox Focus offers tracking protection.
3. Opera Browser
Opera comes with a built-in ad blocker and free VPN, making it a good all-in-one solution for privacy and ad-blocking.
Method 2: Use Dedicated Ad-Blocker Apps
There are several apps specifically designed to block ads across the system or within specific apps.
1. AdGuard
AdGuard is a powerful tool for both Android and iOS. On Android, it can block ads system-wide. On iOS, it offers limited ad-blocking due to Apple’s restrictions but still works well in browsers.
2. Blokada
Blokada is a free, open-source ad-blocker for Android. It works using a local VPN to filter traffic and block ads. A slim version is available for iOS, though with more limited capabilities.
3. DNS66 (Android Only)
This app filters ads by using custom DNS servers. It requires setting up a local VPN and is available through F-Droid, an alternative Android app store.
Method 3: Change DNS Settings
Using a DNS server that blocks ad domains can eliminate many ads across apps and browsers without rooting your device.
Recommended Ad-Blocking DNS Providers:
- AdGuard DNS:
94.140.14.14and94.140.15.15 - NextDNS: Customizable DNS with ad-blocking, tracker-blocking, and analytics
- ControlD: Offers ad-blocking modes with multiple filtering levels
How to Change DNS on Android:
- Go to Settings → Network & Internet
- Tap Private DNS
- Select
Private DNS provider hostnameand enter a DNS (e.g.,dns.adguard.com)
How to Change DNS on iOS:
- Go to Settings → Wi-Fi
- Tap the i icon next to your network
- Scroll to DNS, switch to Manual, and add the DNS addresses
Method 4: Block Ads Using a Firewall
Firewalls can control which apps access the internet, thereby blocking ads that are fetched from remote servers.
Best Firewall Apps:
- NetGuard: A no-root firewall for Android that allows selective internet access per app.
- NoRoot Firewall: Provides simple control over which apps can connect to the internet.
Note: Firewall-based solutions often rely on creating a local VPN, which may conflict with actual VPN usage.
Method 5: Rooting Your Android Phone
Rooting provides full control over your device and allows you to install advanced ad-blocking tools. However, rooting comes with risks such as voiding warranties and potentially bricking the phone.
Root-only Ad Blocking Apps:
- AdAway: Uses host files to block ad domains system-wide
- MinMinGuard: Blocks ads in specific apps at the activity level
These tools are extremely effective but only recommended for users comfortable with Android system modifications.
Method 6: Using Screen Time and Content Restrictions (iOS)
While not a full ad-blocker, iOS lets you set content restrictions that may limit ad exposure in some cases:
- Go to Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Enable restrictions and limit apps or websites known for heavy ad usage
This is not an ideal method for ad-blocking but can be used for children’s devices or in specific situations.
Limitations and Considerations
- Some apps may detect ad blockers and refuse to work unless you disable them.
- Blocking too many domains via DNS can sometimes cause essential functionality to break (like login features).
- iOS is more restricted than Android, offering fewer options for system-wide blocking.
- VPN-based blockers may interfere with other VPNs or reduce connection speed slightly.
Are Ad Blockers Legal?
In most countries, using ad blockers is perfectly legal for personal use. However, bypassing paywalls or altering in-app experiences beyond their intended use may violate terms of service. Always use tools ethically and responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is it safe to use ad blockers on my phone?
Yes, using reputable ad blockers like AdGuard, Blokada, or Brave Browser is generally safe. Always download apps from official sources to avoid malicious software.
2. Do ad blockers work on all apps?
Not always. While browsers and some apps are fully supported, certain apps (especially games or streaming services) may bypass or detect ad blockers.
3. Can I block YouTube ads on my phone?
Blocking YouTube ads is difficult using regular ad blockers. However, using apps like YouTube Vanced (Android only, discontinued but still in use) or YouTube Premium can help.
4. Will changing DNS settings block all ads?
Changing to an ad-blocking DNS can block many ad servers, but not all. It’s a good lightweight solution but not a complete fix for in-app ads.
5. Does using an ad blocker affect app functionality?
In some cases, yes. Apps that rely heavily on ads for revenue might not function properly or may prompt you to disable your ad blocker.
6. What’s the difference between DNS blocking and VPN-based ad blocking?
DNS blocking filters ad domains at the DNS lookup level. VPN-based blocking uses a local VPN to intercept traffic. VPNs usually offer more granular control but may conflict with other VPNs.
7. Can I block ads without rooting my Android phone?
Yes. Many solutions like AdGuard, Blokada, and DNS changes work without root access. Rooted methods offer more control but are not necessary for most users.
8. Are ad blockers available on the Apple App Store?
Yes, though with limitations. Safari content blockers like AdGuard or 1Blocker are available, but system-wide ad blocking is limited due to iOS restrictions.
Conclusion
Blocking ads on your phone can significantly improve your experience by making browsing faster, protecting your privacy, and reducing distractions. Depending on your device and comfort level, you can choose from simple browser-based solutions to advanced system-wide tools. Android users generally have more options, especially with root access, while iOS users can still benefit from DNS-based blockers and specialized browsers.
Choose the method that best suits your needs and always stay informed about updates to mobile OS policies that may affect ad-blocking functionality. With the right tools, your mobile experience can be cleaner, faster, and far more enjoyable.
