AdGuard DNS

AdGuard DNS is a privacy-focused Domain Name System (DNS) service designed to protect users from ads, trackers, malicious domains, and phishing threats at the network level.



Unlike browser-based ad blockers or device-specific security tools, AdGuard DNS for Windows (ad-blocking DNS server) operates before content is loaded, filtering unwanted and dangerous connections system-wide.

It works across all platforms, including Windows PCs, macOS, mobile devices, smart TVs, and routers, making it a flexible solution for both personal and organizational use.

The service is available in multiple forms: Public DNS for quick setup, Personal DNS for custom filtering and statistics, and Enterprise DNS for companies, schools, and institutions that require centralized control.

AdGuard DNS Client further enhances usability by offering a dedicated desktop application that simplifies DNS management on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Key Features

• Network-level ad and tracker blocking – Blocks ads, analytics, and tracking domains before websites load
• Malware and phishing protection – Prevents access to known malicious and fraudulent domains
• Encrypted DNS protocols – Supports DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH), DNS-over-TLS (DoT), and DNS-over-QUIC
• Cross-platform compatibility – Works on PCs, smartphones, tablets, routers, and IoT devices
• Custom filtering rules – Allows users to define allowlists, blocklists, and filtering profiles
• Family protection mode – Blocks adult content and enforces safe search across search engines
• Statistics and query logs – Provides detailed insights into DNS requests and blocked domains
• Low-latency global servers – Uses a worldwide server network for fast and reliable resolution
• Enterprise policy management – Centralized device control and security enforcement
• AdGuard DNS Client support – Desktop app for easier setup and ongoing DNS control

User Interface

The AdGuard DNS web dashboard is clean, minimal, and well-structured. Users can quickly switch between protection modes, manage devices, and review DNS query statistics.



Graphs clearly show blocked requests, trackers, and malicious domains over time. For advanced users, custom rules and filtering options are logically organized without overwhelming the interface.

Enterprise dashboards add role-based access, policy templates, and device grouping, making large-scale management intuitive.

Installation and Setup

AdGuard DNS does not require traditional software installation for basic usage. Users can configure it directly by changing DNS addresses on their device or router.

For encrypted DNS, configuration profiles are available for supported systems.

For users who prefer a guided experience, AdGuard DNS Client simplifies setup by automatically applying secure DNS settings, handling protocol selection, and maintaining protection across network changes.



The client is especially useful on laptops that frequently switch between Wi-Fi networks.

How to Use

• Public DNS – Set AdGuard DNS addresses on your device or router for instant protection
• Personal DNS – Create an account, register devices, and customize filtering rules
• Family Protection – Enable parental controls and safe search from the dashboard
• Statistics Review – Monitor DNS queries, blocked trackers, and threats in real time
• AdGuard DNS Client – Install the app, select protection mode, and manage DNS centrally

FAQs

Is AdGuard DNS free to use?
Yes, the Public DNS version is completely free with standard ad-blocking and security protection.

Does AdGuard DNS log my activity?
AdGuard DNS follows a strict privacy policy and offers non-logging modes depending on configuration.

Can it replace an antivirus program?
No, it complements antivirus software by blocking threats at the DNS level before connections are made.

Is AdGuard DNS suitable for businesses?
Yes, the Enterprise edition provides centralized policy control, reporting, and scalable device management.

What is AdGuard DNS Client used for?
It is a desktop application that simplifies encrypted DNS setup and ensures consistent protection across networks.

Alternatives

• NextDNS – Customizable DNS filtering with strong analytics and parental controls
• Cloudflare DNS – High-performance DNS with basic security and privacy features
• Google Public DNS – Fast and reliable DNS without ad-blocking capabilities
• OpenDNS (Cisco Umbrella) – Enterprise-focused DNS security with advanced threat intelligence
• Quad9 – Security-oriented DNS emphasizing malware and phishing protection

Pricing

AdGuard DNS Public is FREE and requires no account.

AdGuard DNS Personal offers expanded customization, device management, and statistics under paid plans.

AdGuard DNS Enterprise is priced per device or per organization, with scalable plans designed for companies, schools, and institutions. Pricing varies based on the number of protected endpoints and required features.

System Requirements

• Windows – Any modern Windows PC with network access
• macOS – Compatible with current and recent macOS versions
• Linux – Supported via AdGuard DNS Client or manual configuration
• Mobile Devices – Android and iOS with DNS or profile support
• Routers – Compatible with routers that allow custom DNS configuration

PROS

• System-wide ad and tracker blocking without installing extensions
• Strong support for encrypted DNS protocols
• Works on virtually any device or network
• Flexible plans for personal and enterprise users
• Dedicated DNS Client improves usability on PCs

CONS

• Advanced features require a paid plan
• DNS-level filtering cannot remove in-page ads already loaded
• Initial manual setup may confuse non-technical users
• Enterprise pricing is not publicly fixed
• Limited customization in the free Public DNS mode

Conclusion

AdGuard DNS is a powerful, privacy-first DNS solution that delivers effective ad blocking, security protection, and cross-device compatibility without relying on traditional software installation.

With options ranging from free Public DNS to fully managed Enterprise deployments and a dedicated DNS Client for PCs, it scales well from individual users to large organizations. For anyone seeking network-level protection with minimal performance impact, AdGuard DNS is a reliable and future-proof choice.