How to block ads on an Android smartphone

With the increasing of ads we encounter on our Android smartphones, many users are looking for ways to them. These advertisements can be annoying and disruptive, especially when they appear in the middle of an important task or while using an app. Fortunately, there are various methods available to block ads on your Android smartphone. In this article, we will explore some popular and effective ways to achieve an ad-free experience.

1. Download an Ad-Blocking App:
One of the easiest ways to block ads on your Android smartphone is by installing an ad-blocking app. There are several apps available in the Google Play Store that effectively block ads across various apps and websites. Some popular options include AdGuard, Blokada, and Adblock Plus. Simply search for these apps, download, and install them on your device. Once installed, these apps work in the background, filtering out ads as you browse or use apps.

2. Configure DNS-Based Ad Blocking:
Another effective method to block ads is by configuring the DNS settings on your Android smartphone. By changing the DNS server, you can prevent ads from loading on your device. Many third-party DNS services, like AdGuard DNS, offer ad-blocking as a feature. To use this method, go to your device’s Wi-Fi settings, long-press on the network you are connected to, select “Modify Network,” then enable the “Advanced Options” and change the IP settings to “Static.” Finally, enter the preferred DNS server address, save the changes, and enjoy an ad-free browsing experience.

3. Disable Personalized Ads:
Android devices offer an option to disable personalized ads. While this may not block all ads, it can significantly reduce the number of targeted ads you encounter. To disable personalized ads, go to your device’s settings, select “Google,” then “Ads,” and enable the “Opt out of Ads Personalization” option. Keep in mind that this setting might vary depending on the Android version and device manufacturer.

4. Use a Browser with Built-in Ad Blocking:
If you spend a lot of time browsing the internet on your Android smartphone, using a browser with built-in ad-blocking capabilities can be highly beneficial. Numerous browsers such as Brave, Firefox, and Kiwi offer built-in ad blockers that automatically block ads as you browse. These browsers also provide additional privacy features and allow you to customize your ad-blocking preferences.

5. Utilize an In-Browser Ad-Blocking Extension:
Some browsers, like Google Chrome, allow you to install ad-blocking extensions directly onto your Android smartphone. Ad-blocking extensions, such as Adblock Plus or uBlock Origin, work similarly to desktop browser extensions. To use this method, open the Google Chrome browser, visit the Chrome Web Store, search for your desired ad-blocking extension, then add it to your browser. Once added, the ad-blocking extension will block intrusive ads as you browse the internet on your device.

While ad-blocking is a useful tool for an ad-free experience, it’s important to note that some websites rely on ads for revenue. If you appreciate content from specific sources, consider supporting them by disabling ad-blocking on those websites.

In conclusion, ads can be frustrating while using an Android smartphone. However, with the numerous ad-blocking methods available, you can enjoy a more pleasant and uninterrupted smartphone experience. Whether you choose to install an ad-blocking app, configure DNS settings, disable personalized ads, use a browser with built-in ad-blocking, or utilize an ad-blocking extension, the choice is yours. Implementing any of these methods will help you significantly reduce or completely block ads on your Android smartphone.