The Best Tools to Block Online Trackers and Ads
Online trackers and ads have become a pervasive part of our internet experience, often leading to privacy concerns and disruptions in user experience. While some ads support free content, many users seek ways to block intrusive advertisements and tracking scripts that monitor their online behavior. Thankfully, there are numerous tools available to help enhance privacy and streamline browsing by blocking these unwanted elements.
1. Browser Extensions for Blocking Trackers and Ads
Browser extensions are one of the most accessible and effective ways to block trackers and ads. These tools integrate directly into your web browser, providing real-time protection without requiring extensive configuration.
- uBlock Origin: A popular and lightweight option, uBlock Origin is known for its efficiency in blocking a wide range of ads and trackers. It uses less memory compared to other ad blockers, making it a great choice for users with older devices.
- Privacy Badger: Developed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), Privacy Badger blocks tracking scripts that follow you across websites. Unlike other ad blockers, it learns over time which trackers to block based on their behavior rather than relying on predefined lists.
- AdBlock Plus: One of the oldest and most well-known ad blockers, AdBlock Plus allows users to customize their blocking preferences. It also has a feature to allow "acceptable ads," supporting websites that rely on advertising revenue while still blocking intrusive elements.
2. VPNs with Built-In Ad Blockers
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) not only enhance privacy by masking your IP address but also offer built-in ad-blocking features. These services route your internet traffic through secure servers, filtering out malicious content before it reaches your device.
NordVPN: Known for its robust security features, NordVPN includes an ad-blocking tool called CyberSec. This feature blocks ads, malware, and phishing sites, ensuring a safer browsing experience.
Surfshark: Another popular VPN service, Surfshark offers CleanWeb, which blocks ads and trackers while also protecting against phishing attempts. Its unlimited device connections make it a versatile choice for households with multiple users.
3. Dedicated Ad-Blocking Software
For those seeking more comprehensive solutions, dedicated ad-blocking software offers enhanced capabilities compared to browser extensions alone. These programs provide system-wide protection across all browsers and applications.
| Software | Features |
|---|---|
| AdGuard | A versatile tool that works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. AdGuard blocks ads in browsers and apps while providing additional features like parental controls and phishing protection. |
| Pihole | An open-source project that acts as a network-wide ad blocker. Pihole runs on a local server or a Raspberry Pi, filtering out ads for all devices connected to your home network. |
4. Mobile Apps for Ad Blocking
Mobile devices are particularly vulnerable to intrusive ads and tracking scripts. Several apps are designed specifically to address this issue on smartphones and tablets.
Blokada: A free open-source app for Android devices that blocks ads across all apps without requiring root access. Blokada also supports VPN functionality for added privacy.
1Blocker: Available for iOS devices, 1Blocker offers powerful ad-blocking capabilities tailored to Apple’s ecosystem. It provides granular control over what types of content are blocked.
5. Browsers with Built-In Ad Blockers
Certain web browsers come with built-in ad-blocking features, providing an all-in-one solution without the need for additional extensions or software.
Brave: A privacy-focused browser that blocks ads and trackers by default. Brave also offers rewards in the form of cryptocurrency tokens for viewing non-intrusive ads.
Opera: Known for its unique features, Opera includes an integrated ad blocker and VPN service. This combination enhances both privacy and browsing speed.
Tools like browser extensions, VPNs with ad blockers, dedicated software, mobile apps, and browsers with built-in blockers offer diverse solutions catering to different needs.
Selecting the right tool depends on individual preferences and requirements. Browser extensions like uBlock Origin provide lightweight solutions for everyday use, while dedicated software like AdGuard offers more comprehensive protection across multiple devices. VPN services such as NordVPN add an extra layer of security by masking IP addresses and filtering out malicious content. For mobile users, apps like Blokada ensure uninterrupted browsing without intrusive ads.
A combination of these tools can significantly enhance your online privacy while reducing the annoyance caused by unwanted ads. Whether you prioritize ease of use or comprehensive protection, there’s a solution available to suit every preference.
References: Electronic Frontier Foundation. NordVPN. Surfshark.