How to Block Ads and Trackers on Your Web Browser

20 July 2025

The internet is a wonderful place—full of knowledge, entertainment, and endless scrolling opportunities. But let’s be honest: it’s also overflowing with pesky ads and sneaky trackers that follow you around like an overenthusiastic salesperson.

If you’re tired of being bombarded with ads and having your browsing habits monitored, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to block ads and trackers on your web browser—without slowing down your internet experience.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a cleaner, faster, and more private browsing experience. Ready? Let’s dive in!

🚀 Why You Should Block Ads and Trackers

Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why.

1. Faster Browsing Speed

Ads slow down websites—period. Ever noticed how some pages take forever to load? That’s often because they’re stuffed with banners, pop-ups, and tracking scripts. Block them, and you’ll see an instant speed boost.

2. Better Privacy

Trackers collect data on your browsing habits to build detailed profiles about you. This data is often sold to advertisers or even used for more questionable purposes. Blocking trackers means taking back control of your digital privacy.

3. Reduced Clutter

Let’s face it—ads are annoying. They distract you from the content you came to see. Want a cleaner, more immersive experience? Block the ads.

4. Fewer Security Risks

Some ads contain malware, phishing attempts, or other security threats. Blocking them reduces the chances of accidentally clicking on something harmful.

Now that you know why it’s important, let’s get to the good stuff—how to actually block ads and trackers.

🛑 How to Block Ads and Trackers on Your Web Browser

There are several ways to block unwanted ads and trackers, and we’ll cover all the best methods—browser extensions, built-in browser features, DNS-level blocking, and standalone software.

1. Use an Ad Blocker Extension

One of the easiest and most effective ways to block ads and trackers is by installing an ad-blocking browser extension. These tools automatically remove ads before they even load, making your browsing experience cleaner and faster.

Best Ad Blocker Extensions

- uBlock Origin (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) – Lightweight, open-source, and highly customizable.
- AdGuard (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari) – Blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
- Ghostery (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) – Focuses on blocking trackers for better privacy.
- Privacy Badger (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) – Developed by the EFF, great for blocking sneaky trackers.

Simply install one of these extensions from your browser’s extension store, and you’re good to go. Most of these tools work instantly without needing extra configuration.

2. Enable Built-in Browser Protections

Many modern browsers have built-in features to block ads and trackers without needing extra extensions.

Google Chrome

- Go to `Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings > Ads` and block intrusive ads.
- Enable `Do Not Track` under `Privacy and security`.

Mozilla Firefox

- Navigate to `Settings > Privacy & Security`.
- Under `Enhanced Tracking Protection`, select Strict mode.

Microsoft Edge

- Visit `Settings > Privacy, search, and services`.
- Under `Tracking Prevention`, choose Strict mode.

Apple Safari

- Safari comes with Intelligent Tracking Prevention by default.
- You can also block all cross-site tracking in `Settings > Privacy`.

3. Use a Privacy-Focused Browser

If you’re serious about blocking ads and trackers, consider switching to a privacy-focused browser. These browsers come with built-in tracking protection and often block ads by default.

Top Privacy Browsers

- Brave – Blocks ads and trackers by default. Also rewards you with cryptocurrency for opting into privacy-friendly ads.
- Tor Browser – Designed for anonymity, great for private browsing.
- Firefox (with Enhanced Tracking Protection) – A solid, mainstream choice with good privacy features.

Using these browsers means you don’t need as many extensions or tweaks to enjoy an ad-free experience.

4. Modify Your DNS Settings

If you want to block ads and trackers at a network level, changing your DNS settings can help.

How DNS Blocking Works

A DNS (Domain Name System) is like the internet’s phone book—it translates website names into IP addresses. Some DNS services block known ad and tracker domains so your browser never even loads them.

Best Privacy-Focused DNS Services

- AdGuard DNS – Blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the DNS level.
- NextDNS – Customizable and great for blocking specific ad networks.
- Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 (with Warp) – Focuses on privacy and encryption.

How to Change Your DNS

- On Windows: Go to `Network & Internet > Change adapter options`, select your network, then modify DNS settings.
- On macOS: Open `System Preferences > Network`, select your network, then enter a custom DNS.
- On a Router: Log into your router settings and modify the DNS manually.

Using a privacy-focused DNS helps block ads across all connected devices without needing separate browser extensions.

5. Use a Pi-hole (For Advanced Users)

If you want total control over blocking ads and trackers, setting up a Pi-hole is an advanced but highly effective method.

What is a Pi-hole?

A Pi-hole is a network-wide ad blocker that runs on a Raspberry Pi or another small device. It blocks ads at the DNS level, preventing them from loading on all devices connected to your home network—including smart TVs and mobile devices.

How to Set Up a Pi-hole

1. Get a Raspberry Pi and install Raspberry Pi OS.
2. Install Pi-hole by following the official instructions (pi-hole.net).
3. Set your router to use the Pi-hole as the primary DNS.
4. Enjoy an ad-free experience across your entire network!

While this method takes a little extra effort, it’s one of the most effective ways to eliminate ads and trackers for good.

6. Use a VPN with Ad-Blocking Features

Some VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) come with built-in ad and tracker blocking, providing an extra layer of protection.

Best VPNs with Ad Blocking

- NordVPN (CyberSec) – Blocks ads and malware while encrypting your traffic.
- ProtonVPN – Includes NetShield to block trackers and malware.
- Surfshark (CleanWeb) – Blocks ads, trackers, and phishing attempts.

A VPN not only blocks ads but also hides your IP address, making it a great option for enhancing online privacy.

🎯 Wrapping It Up

Blocking ads and trackers is easier than ever, and you don’t have to be a tech genius to do it. Whether you prefer using a simple browser extension, tweaking your DNS settings, or going all-in with a Pi-hole, there’s a solution for everyone.

By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a faster, cleaner, and more private internet experience—without the constant bombardment of intrusive ads and creepy trackers.

So go ahead, take back control of your online privacy, and start browsing the web on your terms!