Eliminating Ads on Your Android Devices: A Comprehensive Guide

Ads, those pesky interruptions in your browsing experience, can be quite annoying. Whether you're trying to get rid of in-app ads, web ads, or third-party app advertisements, there are several methods you can use to block these unwanted interruptions. This guide will introduce you to the most effective and straightforward ways to eliminate ads on Android devices.

What Are Private DNS and How Can They Help?

Private DNS servers play a crucial role in improving your browsing experience. They are designed to block ads, enhance security, and improve the speed of your internet connection. When you configure your Android device to use a private DNS server, it can significantly limit or eliminate ads from appearing in your browsing sessions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Use Private DNS on Android

1. Go to Your Android's Mobile Settings
Open the settings menu on your Android device and navigate to the network settings. If you can’t find a specific option for private DNS, this method may not apply to your device. For Android 10 and above, you may need to enable third-party access to private DNS settings as the exact steps can vary by device manufacturer.

2. Perform a DNS Search
Search for and select the option to change your DNS settings. You might need to look for DNS settings under the network or Wi-Fi settings.

3. Go to Private DNS Settings
If a private DNS option is available, it will typically be under network settings. Some Android devices may not provide a dedicated private DNS setting, so you might need to use a third-party app like NetGuard.

4. Designate the Private DNS
If you find a designated private DNS setting, you can enter the DNS address of a service that blocks ads. Popular options include AdGuard DNS.

5. Save Changes and Verify
After entering the private DNS address, hit save or apply. The changes should take effect immediately.

6. Confirm No More Ads
Clear your browsing cache and cookies to ensure no ads are carried over from previous sessions. Verify that no in-app ads or web ads are appearing.

Brave Browser and Ad Blockers

If you prefer a more user-friendly approach, you can use browsers and add-ons specifically designed to block ads. The Brave browser is a top choice, as it automatically blocks ads on all websites. Simply download and install Brave from the Play Store. While you're at it, consider downloading the Firefox browser and adding an ad-blocking extension such as uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger. For YouTube, using these browsers can eliminate ads more effectively than the YouTube app itself.

Third-Party App Ad Blocking

For ads within third-party apps, the most effective solution is to use a firewall or ad-blocking app. NetGuard is a common choice that allows you to block ads and other forms of ads without root access. With root access, you can use more comprehensive tools like Blockada or AdAway. These apps will block ads for both apps and websites. However, be aware that blocking ads can sometimes interfere with app functionality and may remove legitimate sources from search results.

Additional Methods to Consider

Some users prefer more hands-on control. Methods like configuring your device's hosts file or using Lucky Patcher can work, but they are less reliable and less user-friendly. For instance, you can use hosts files to block specific ad servers, but it requires knowledge of editing the file and may cause issues with certain apps.

If you want to stay up-to-date with the latest ad-blocking methods, consider installing the Energized Extension. It regularly updates the hosts file to block the latest ad servers as they appear. Keep in mind that while this method is effective, it can still cause problems for some apps and web experiences.

Conclusion

Ad-blocking is a personal choice, and while there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, there are several effective methods to eliminate ads on Android devices. From configuring private DNS settings to using dedicated ad-blocking browsers, you can significantly reduce ad interruptions. Just be cautious with methods that modify your device's core functions, as they can sometimes lead to issues. Choose the method that best suits your needs and browsing preferences.