How to Block Ads on Android Phones and Tablets in Under a Minute
Block Ads on Android Phones and Tablets Quickly

How to Block Ads on Android Phones and Tablets in Under a Minute

Are you tired of intrusive ads disrupting your experience on Android phones and tablets? Ads have become an integral part of our digital lives, often helping us discover new products and services. However, they can also be overly intrusive, especially on Android devices, where many free apps and games display full-screen ads that even disable the back gesture. If you want to reclaim a smoother, ad-free experience, here are effective ways to block ads on your Android device in less than a minute.

Private DNS: The Easiest Method to Block Ads

Setting up a private DNS is the simplest and quickest way to eliminate ads on Android. This method relies on a built-in Android setting introduced in 2018 with Android 9 Pie. The process is straightforward and typically takes under a minute to complete, though the exact steps may vary slightly depending on your phone or tablet model.

To block ads at a system level using private DNS, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
  2. Search for "DNS" in the settings menu.
  3. Select "Private DNS provider hostname" or "Specified DNS" (common on OnePlus, Realme, and Oppo devices).
  4. Type "dns.adguard.com" and tap the Save button.

Once configured, this DNS setting will block the majority of ads and pop-up banners on your device. However, be aware that it may occasionally block some legitimate websites you frequently visit. If this happens, you can easily turn off the private DNS setting. Additionally, if AdGuard's DNS service doesn't suit your needs, there are numerous alternatives available to explore.

AdAway and Blokada: Advanced Ad Blocking Apps

For years, AdAway has been the go-to app for Android enthusiasts seeking to block ads effectively. Previously limited to rooted devices, AdAway now offers a non-root mode, making it accessible to a wider audience. The rooted method uses your Android's host file to block hostnames that serve ads, while the non-rooted method sets up a VPN to block ads in both browsers and apps. AdAway is open-source and free to use, and it can be downloaded from GitHub with a simple Google search.

If AdAway isn't to your liking, Blokada is a great alternative. This app functions similarly, blocking ads and also encrypting your DNS queries when possible. Blokada provides users with the flexibility to create and control lists of domains that should be blocked or whitelisted, offering a customizable ad-blocking experience.

By using these methods, you can significantly reduce intrusive ads on your Android phones and tablets, enhancing your overall user experience without compromising on functionality.