Block DNS requests to avoid ads and tracker interference.
Block DNS requests to avoid ads and tracker interference.
Earlier Linus demonstrated how to integrate a Raspberry Pi into a network to suppress ads. I’m curious if similar results can be achieved by tweaking your router’s DNS settings instead. After reviewing some discussions, it seems certain cloud providers like Cloudflare offer ranges (such as 1.1.1.1) that might help with ad blocking, though their guides don’t explicitly mention this feature. Others suggest experimenting with different configurations, but success may vary depending on your router model and network setup. It appears the video’s approach isn’t universally applicable, and you might need to test alternatives or consult specific vendor support.
Cloudflare leaves ads on their public DNS servers. I rely on theirs and end up seeing ads. I tried setting up PiHole temporarily but stopped because it created more problems than benefits, affecting services like Google shopping and search results. It’s fine if you’re the sole user and can handle the workaround, but it can be frustrating for others, particularly those less familiar with tech. There are many public DNS servers that block ads—here are a few options you might explore: https://alternate-dns.com/ and https://adguard-dns.io/en/public-dns.html
You have control over what content is allowed or blocked using PiHole. It functions like a hosts file, which you can edit. I adjust it based on who I connect with—removing links that interfere with Google shopping and ads, since many users aren’t aware they’re seeing ads. My main goal is to block harmful material. At home, I rely on PiHole and found it effective. I recall using OpenDNS in the past for similar filtering; they still provide free options with customization possibilities. It could be worth exploring further.
I understand the situation, and I set it up myself. However, I kept having to add new elements, and even more items would still get blocked. Some very unusual issues would occur, like parts of the Renault site needed to update the infotainment system but wouldn't function properly. It was frustrating to track down the domain that needed unblocking, which was a hassle. I could handle it myself, but it bothers others who keep asking me to remove things. It works in theory, but it felt more like trouble than a solution.
I rely on AdGuard DNS for my mobile devices, which consistently prevents ads in most apps and websites. It may occasionally cause issues, such as when connecting to a Wi-Fi network that rejects manually configured DNS settings, but this is simple to resolve. The benefit here is the ability to disable it when needed. Having unlimited data means I don’t have to constantly connect to public Wi-Fi, though results can vary. For home use, I’m satisfied with browser-based ad blockers since most browsing happens that way. I don’t encounter many ads overall, as most interactions occur through a browser, so setting up a PiHole or adjusting a specific DNS server isn’t necessary.
I switched from PiHole to Adguard Home using the same Raspberry Pi 4B without any issues. They aim to provide similar results, but I've noticed Adguard blocks ads more effectively across networks. Mobile and iOS versions also work well. For extra customization beyond Adguard's public DNS, you can set it up yourself or use cloud services.