How to Block Ads on Android: Apps, Browser and Whole Phone

Ads in apps, pop-ups in the browser, spam notifications and even ads on the lock screen: Android can feel crowded. You cannot remove every ad everywhere, but you can block most of them without root and without installing shady apps. Here are the methods that work, from the simplest to the most thorough.

Method 1: Private DNS (blocks ads across the phone)

Android 9 and later have a built-in setting called Private DNS. Point it at an ad-blocking DNS service and ads are blocked in many apps and websites at once.

1. Open Settings > Network and internet (on Samsung: Connections > More connection settings).
2. Tap Private DNS.
3. Choose Private DNS provider hostname.
4. Enter dns.adguard-dns.com and save.

That is all. It works on Wi-Fi and mobile data. To undo it, set Private DNS back to Automatic.

DNS blocking does not remove every ad. Ads served from the same address as the content, such as YouTube video ads, are not affected. If an app or website stops working, switch Private DNS back to Automatic.

Method 2: Use a browser with a built-in ad blocker

• Brave: blocks ads and trackers by default, fast and free.
• Firefox: supports extensions on Android, including uBlock Origin, one of the best ad blockers available.
• Samsung Internet: supports ad-blocker add-ons from its menu.

Chrome on Android does not support ad-block extensions, so switching browsers makes a big difference for pop-ups and redirect pages.

Method 3: Stop notification spam

Many “ads” are actually notifications from websites you once allowed.

1. Open Chrome, tap the three dots, then Settings > Site settings > Notifications.
2. Remove every site you do not recognise.
3. In Android settings, long-press any annoying notification and turn off that category.

Method 4: Remove lock-screen and system ads

Some phone brands show ads in their own apps.

• Xiaomi / Redmi / POCO: turn off Personalized ad recommendations in Settings > Passwords and security > Authorization and revocation (revoke msa), and turn off recommendations inside Themes, File Manager and Security apps.
• Samsung: disable Glance or “Dynamic Lock Screen” content if enabled, and turn off marketing notifications in Galaxy Store.
• Vivo / Oppo / Realme: disable “Smart recommendations” and lock-screen magazines.

Method 5: Find the app showing pop-up ads

If full-screen ads appear even when you are on the home screen, an installed app is responsible. Signs include an app with no icon, a recently installed “cleaner” or flashlight app, or a wallpaper app. Open the recent apps screen right after an ad appears, long-press the ad to see the app’s name, or check Settings > Apps sorted by recently installed. Uninstall the culprit. Our guide on spotting fake apps helps.

Method 6: Paid plans and ad-free apps

Many apps offer an ad-free tier. If you use an app every day, the subscription is often the most reliable way to remove ads while supporting the developer. Ad-free versions of apps are also available on GrabModApk, but read what MOD APKs are before installing one.

Frequently asked questions

Is Private DNS safe?

Yes. Reputable DNS providers only resolve addresses. They encrypt your DNS requests, which is better for privacy than the default.

Can I block YouTube ads with DNS?

No. YouTube serves ads from the same servers as videos. Use YouTube Premium or a browser with uBlock Origin.

Do ad blockers slow down my phone?

No. Blocking ads usually makes pages load faster and saves data.