Last Updated on 3 months ago by Mamun Miah

Are you tired of being bombarded with annoying ads while browsing on your Android device? Look no further – In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various methods and tools to block ads on Android, allowing you to enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable browsing experience. By leveraging the power of DNS providers, you can enhance your browsing experience by effectively eliminating intrusive ads and enjoy a clutter-free online environment.

Why Blocking Ads on Android Matters

Reducing Distractions

Ads have a way of popping up at the most inconvenient times, interrupting our favorite videos, games, and online activities. By blocking ads, you can minimize distractions and maintain focus on the content that truly matters to you.

Preserving Battery Life

Did you know that ads consume valuable battery power on your Android device? Every time an ad is displayed, it requires processing power and data, which can drain your battery faster. By blocking ads, you can extend your device’s battery life and enjoy longer browsing sessions.

Conserving Data Usage

Unwanted ads can also eat up your precious mobile data. They load additional content and media, leading to higher data consumption. By blocking ads, you can significantly reduce data usage and stay within your monthly data limits.

Enhancing Privacy and Security

Some ads are not just annoying; they can also be a potential threat to your privacy and security. Malicious ads may contain malware, spyware, or phishing attempts, aiming to steal your personal information or compromise your device. By blocking ads, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these cyber threats.

Step-by-Step Guides for Blocking Ads on Android 

There are several methods available for blocking ads on Android devices. Each method has its own advantages and considerations, depending on your specific needs and preferences.

Let’s dive into step-by-step guides for each method. Follow these instructions to block ads on your Android device:

Method 1: Block ads by Changing Private DNS Provider from Settings

Android 9 and above offer a built-in Private DNS feature that allows you to change your DNS provider. By utilizing a reputable ad-blocking DNS provider like AdGuard DNS, you can block ads at the DNS level, ensuring that ads are blocked across all apps and browsers on your Android device.

• Open the Settings app on your Android device.

• Navigate to the “Network & Internet/Connections” or “Wireless & Networks/More connection settings” section.

• Select “Private DNS” or “Private DNS Provider Hostname”.

• Enter the hostname of a reputable ad-blocking DNS provider, such as “dns.adguard.com” or “dns-family.adguard.com“.
• Save the settings and restart your device if necessary.

Method 2: Using Ad-Blocking 3rd party Apps

Ad-blocking apps are specifically designed to detect and block ads within apps and browsers. These apps work by filtering web content and removing ads before they are displayed on your screen. Popular ad-blocking apps include AdGuard, Blokada, and AdAway.

• Download and install an ad-blocking app from the Google Play Store, such as DNSChanger, AdGuard, Blokada, or AdAway.
• Open the ad-blocking app and follow the on-screen instructions for initial setup.
• Enable the ad-blocking feature within the app.
• Optionally, customize additional settings according to your preferences.
• Launch your favorite browser or app and enjoy an ad-free experience.

Method 3: Block ads by Modifying the Hosts File (Advanced method)

Modifying the hosts file on your Android device is another effective method of blocking ads. By adding entries to the hosts file, you can redirect ad server requests to localhost, preventing ads from being displayed. This method requires root access and technical knowledge.

Note: Modifying the hosts file requires root access and advanced technical knowledge. Proceed with caution and make sure to create a backup of your original hosts file before making any changes.

• Ensure that your Android device is rooted and you have a File manager app with root access.
• Locate the hosts file on your device’s system partition. The file is usually located in the “/system/etc” directory.
• Open the hosts file using a text editor or a file manager app with built-in text editing capabilities.
• Add entries to redirect ad server requests to localhost. For example, you can add a line like “127.0.0.1 ads.facebook.com” to block ads from ads.facebook.com.
• Save the modified hosts file and restart your device for the changes to take effect.

Method 4: Utilizing Ad-Blocking Browsers

Some web browsers, such as Brave and Firefox, offer built-in ad-blocking features. These browsers employ advanced algorithms to detect and block ads, ensuring a smoother and ad-free browsing experience. Additionally, they often include other privacy-enhancing features, such as tracker blocking and HTTPS upgrades.

• Download and install an ad-blocking browser from the Google Play Store, such as Brave or Firefox.
• Open the ad-blocking browser and follow the initial setup instructions.
• Customize the browser settings according to your preferences.
• Start browsing with the ad-blocking browser and enjoy an ad-free experience.

If you want to block ads on a specific browser like Google Chrome, or UC browser follow these steps to block ads on a specific browser.

Method 5: Disabling Internet Connection (Very easy method)

A simple yet effective method to temporarily block ads is by disabling your internet connection. By turning off mobile data and Wi-Fi, you can browse offline, eliminating the possibility of ads appearing on your screen. However, keep in mind that this method also prevents you from accessing online content.

• Open the Settings app on your Android device.
• Navigate to the “Network & Internet/Connections” or “Wireless & Networks/Wi-Fi/Mobile networks” section.
• Toggle off the mobile data and Wi-Fi options to disable the internet connection.
• Launch your favorite browser or app and browse offline without ads.
• To re-enable internet connection, toggle on the mobile data or Wi-Fi options.

You can also disable Wi-Fi and Mobile data from the notification panel.

These are the General ad-blocking methods. If you want to block ads on specific apps like YouTube, Facebook, Spotify, Games, Hulu, and Pandora then you can follow these steps to block ads on specific apps.

Additional Tips and Considerations for Ad Blocking

Blocking ads on Android is a continuous process, and it’s important to stay informed and take additional measures for a comprehensive ad-blocking experience. Here are some additional tips and considerations:

• Keep Your Apps Updated

Regularly update your apps and operating system to ensure that you have the latest security patches and bug fixes. Developers often release updates that include improvements to ad-blocking features, enhanced privacy settings, and overall performance optimizations.

• Be Mindful of False Positives

While ad-blocking methods are effective at blocking most ads, there is a possibility of false positives. Some legitimate content or functionality may be mistakenly blocked as ads. If you encounter any issues, consider whitelisting specific websites or apps to allow their content.

• Consider Privacy and Security

When using ad-blocking methods, especially those that involve modifying system files or using root access, be cautious about potential privacy and security risks. Only download and install apps or use methods from trusted sources to minimize the risk of malware or compromising your device’s security.

• Support Content Creators

While blocking ads can provide a better browsing experience, it’s important to remember that ads are often a source of revenue for content creators and websites. Consider supporting your favorite content creators by subscribing to their premium services or whitelisting their websites in your ad-blocking settings.

Troubleshooting Steps for The Above Methods

1. Private DNS not connecting:

If you’re not able to change the Private DNS provider or if ads still appear after changing it, ensure you’ve entered the correct DNS address. If the issue persists, your network provider might not support changing the DNS.

2. Facing issues after using Ad-Blocking Apps:

If you still see ads after installing an ad-blocking app, make sure that you’ve enabled the ad-blocking feature within the app. Some apps also need VPN permissions to work effectively. If the app isn’t working correctly, try reinstalling it or try a different ad-blocking app.

3. Troubleshooting Hosts File Modification:

If you have trouble modifying the hosts file, ensure that your Android device is rooted properly and that your file manager has root access. Be careful while modifying the hosts file as incorrect entries can block legitimate content or even make some apps stop working. If you notice any issues after modifying the hosts file, restore the original hosts file from your backup.

4. Still ads showing in Ad-Blocking Browsers:

If you still see ads after using an ad-blocking browser, check if the ad-blocking feature is enabled in the browser settings. Some websites might bypass the ad-blocking feature, in which case, you can try using a different ad-blocking browser or use an additional ad-blocking app for maximum effectiveness.

5. Troubleshooting for Disabling Internet Connection:

1. Internet Connection Still Active: If you’ve followed the steps above but your device remains connected to the internet, ensure that you’ve correctly toggled off both Wi-Fi and mobile data. Some Android devices have both options in different sections of the settings menu.
2. Unable to Access Offline Content: If you’re unable to browse offline or access certain apps, it could be because those apps require an active internet connection to function. In this case, this method won’t be applicable.
3. Automatic Reconnection: If your device automatically reconnects to the internet after disabling the connection, check if any settings like “Auto-connect” or “Connect automatically” are enabled. If so, disable these options.
4. VPN Connection: If you’re using a VPN, ensure it’s disconnected as it can keep the internet active even when you’ve disabled Wi-Fi and mobile data.
5. Airplane Mode Alternative: If you’re still having trouble, try enabling Airplane Mode. This will disable all wireless connections, including Wi-Fi and mobile data.

Remember, while this method can provide a temporary ad-free experience, it also disconnects you from online services and content. It’s not a sustainable solution for regular browsing or app use.

Conclusion

Blocking ads on your Android device can significantly enhance your browsing experience, reduce distractions, conserve battery life, and improve privacy and security. By following the methods and tips outlined in this guide, you can enjoy a cleaner and more enjoyable online experience. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences, and stay informed about the latest developments in ad-blocking technology. Happy ad-free browsing!

If you found this article helpful or informative, please leave a comment below. Additionally, if you encounter any issues, please let me know through the comment section, and I will do my best to resolve them promptly.

Disclaimer: Blocking ads may affect the revenue of websites and content creators who rely on ads to support their work. Please use ad-blocking tools responsibly and consider whitelisting websites you want to support. Additionally, modifying system settings or using third-party apps can have unintended consequences. Proceed with caution and consult reliable sources if unsure.