AdGuard: the private alternative to AdBlock Plus
● Ad & tracker blocker · privacy-first · hosted
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- ReplacesAdBlock Plus
- CategoryAd & tracker blocker
- LicenseProprietary (some open-source components)
- HostingApps + encrypted DNS
- DifficultyNone — install the app
- Privacy✓ Blocks ads and trackers system-wide (not just one browser), with no 'acceptable ads' payola scheme, plus encrypted DNS to block at the network level.
- Projecthttps://adguard.com
What AdGuard Is and What It Replaces
AdGuard is a privacy-focused ad and tracker blocking service that serves as an alternative to AdBlock Plus (ABP). Unlike ABP, which primarily operates within browsers and includes controversial features like the "acceptable ads" program, AdGuard blocks ads and trackers system-wide across all applications on your device. It also offers encrypted DNS services for network-level ad blocking.
The Privacy Model
AdGuard protects user privacy by eliminating tracking at multiple levels: it blocks ads and trackers in real-time through its apps, uses encrypted DNS (DoH/DoT) to prevent domain-based tracking at the network level, and does not rely on a "whitelist" or pay-for-visibility model like AdBlock Plus. This means no third-party ad networks are allowed under any conditions.
AdGuard is a commercial product (with some open-source components); its privacy value comes from blocking trackers system-wide and encrypting your DNS, rather than from any particular legal jurisdiction. All DNS queries are encrypted to prevent eavesdropping by ISPs or other intermediaries.
What You Actually Get / Key Features vs AdBlock Plus
- System-wide ad blocking: Works across all apps and browsers, not just one browser like ABP.
- No acceptable ads: No paid whitelisting of advertisers — everything is blocked unless explicitly allowed by the user.
- Encrypted DNS (DoH/DoT): Blocks tracking domains before they can be resolved, improving privacy and performance.
- Optional tracker-blocking VPN: Adds an extra layer of protection for mobile users.
- Cross-platform support: Apps available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more — AdGuard works on every device you own.
Cost vs AdBlock Plus
AdGuard offers a free tier through its DNS service. For full ad-blocking capabilities via the desktop or mobile apps, users can choose between a one-time purchase or a subscription model depending on their region and platform.
In comparison, AdBlock Plus is free to use but includes the controversial "acceptable ads" program that allows certain advertisers to pay for visibility. This creates a potential conflict of interest in its privacy model.
Who It's For and Who Should NOT Switch
AdGuard is ideal for:
- Users who want system-wide ad blocking without browser limitations.
- Those concerned about the "acceptable ads" payola scheme in AdBlock Plus.
- People looking to improve privacy through encrypted DNS and network-level filtering.
AdGuard may not be right for:
- Users who prefer a fully free, open-source ad-blocking solution with no paid tiers (beyond the free DNS).
- Those who are comfortable using AdBlock Plus and do not mind its business model.
How to Get Started
To start using AdGuard:
- Visit AdGuard's website.
- Select your device type and download the appropriate app.
- Follow setup instructions to block ads and trackers system-wide or configure encrypted DNS for network-level filtering.
- Optional: Switch from AdBlock Plus by uninstalling it and using AdGuard as your primary ad-blocking tool.