Ads are everywhere and smartphones are no exception. Whether it's a gaming app, a video app, or a web browser, ads on the Android platform can ruin your entire experience. Sometimes, you may like an app but discontinue its usage because it contains many ads. So, how do you get rid of these ads on an Android smartphone? One way is to root your Android device and block ads at the system level. But, it's risky and also requires some technical know-how. Another way is to opt for a method that doesn't require rooting of an Android device. There are several ways to block ads and that's what we're going to learn.
We'll learn all the non-rooting methods to effectively block ads on an Android smartphone. Almost all of them are easy to configure and works like charm. Make sure you are using Android version 9 or higher.
Some of the ad-blocking methods mentioned below can be applied to iOS as well. So, get ready to set up an ad-free experience on your Android smartphone through a combination of methods given below.
Method 1: Use Private DNS with Ad-Blocking (Android 9+)
One of the best ways to block ads is to use a private DNS service that also supports ad blocking—out of the box. There are several such services to choose from. Using this method blocks ads at the system level on both apps and web browsers. Here's an example setup.
- Open the Settings → Network & Internet → Private DNS screen. On some smartphones, this option may reside under the Connections & sharing option.
- Tap on the Modify option and add
dns.adguard.comordns.family.adguard.comas the hostname in the provided text field.![AdGuard DNS on Android]()
📷 Use a private DNS to configure an ad-blocking service - Finally, tap the Save button to apply the changes.
Making these changes ensures the ads are blocked at the system or network level relieving you from applying other methods to block ads on different apps. Remember, if you are using a VPN, this method may not work as its tunnel may bypass all the filtering of a private DNS.
Method 2: Use an Ad-Blocking App (No Root)
If you resist fiddling with Android's default settings interface and prefer the easy way out, ad-blocking apps is one of the options. A VPN-based ad blocking app can deal with intrusive ads, effectively.
You can use AdGuard for Android to easily block ads on your Android phone.
Some of the key features of this excellent app are:
- Seamlessly blocks ads in games, apps, and web browsers.
- You can see detailed statistics of blocked ads.
- Users can apply custom filters and DNS settings if required.
- Ad blocking effectively saves both battery and internet data.
Remember, if you are using this app for ad-blocking, make sure you do not use any other VPN app as it may conflict with this one.
Method 3: Use a Browser With Built-In Ad Blocker
If you are a heavy web surfer and spend most of your time in a web browser on your Android phone, the best way to block ads is to use a browser with a built-in ad blocker. There are a couple of good options to choose from.
Brave Browser
One of the best web browsers available for Android that blocks ads, out of the box is Brave. It's lightweight with a great interface. Install it and see how much data it saves during your browsing sessions.
Some of the key features of this browser are:
- Powerful ad and tracker blocker, baked in.
- Extremely lightweight and fully privacy-oriented.
- Private searches.
- Available for multiple platforms.
Firefox + uBlock Origin (Add-On)
Another powerful option is the combination of the Firefox browser paired with uBlock Origin extension. I've used it for years on my Android phone. Do give it a try.
These features make it a potent tool against web-based ads:
- Highly customizable extension.
- Works without any extra tools.
- Built-in enhanced tracking protection for added security.
- Fast and user-friendly.
Both these browser options are excellent for blocking ads on the web. So, what are you waiting for? Try one of these options and make your browsing sessions, completely ad-free.
Blocking YouTube Ads (Without Root)
The most challenging part is to block ads on the native YouTube app. Generally, it either requires rooting the device or you need to filter ads at the network level. But, there are some easy-to-use options as well. Let's see them.
Option 1: Use YouTube ReVanced
Install YouTube ReVanced to get an ad-free YouTube experience. It also supports background play and many more features. It works on both rooted and non-rooted devices.
Make sure you only install it through the official website mentioned above. Do not use a .apk file from any other source. Follow the install process mentioned on the website and you are good to go.
Option 2: Use Brave Browser or NewPipe
One of the easiest ways to get an ad-free YouTube experience is to open it in the Brave browser. I've already mentioned about this browser in one of the previous sections.
Another popular way to get ad-free YouTube is to install the NewPipe app on your Android device. It's open source and lightweight with more or less a similar interface as the official YouTube app.
Conclusion
Blocking ads on Android without root has become easier and more effective over time. Whether you prefer DNS-level blocking, VPN-based apps like AdGuard, or simply switching to an ad-blocking browser, there’s a solution for everyone.
