In today’s mobile-first world, ads can be intrusive and slow down your browsing experience. Whether you’re reading an article or playing a game, advertisements seem to pop up everywhere on iOS. Thankfully, you can block these ads using various methods — including Safari extensions, VPN apps with ad-blocking features, and DNS-based solutions.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the latest and most effective methods to block ads on iOS devices:
1. Safari Extensions for Ad Blocking
Apple allows Safari extensions on iOS, which means you can block ads directly within your browser using these tools.
AdGuard for iOS
AdGuard is a full-featured ad blocker that integrates with Safari. It removes banners, pop-ups, video ads, and even blocks trackers.
- Easy to use
- Offers DNS filtering
- Customizable rules and filters
1Blocker
1Blocker is highly optimized for Safari and offers a vast number of preloaded filters to block:
- Ads
- Trackers
- Social media buttons
- Cookie banners
It’s very lightweight and doesn’t slow down your browser.
Wipr
Wipr is a set-it-and-forget-it kind of blocker. It updates its filters automatically and blocks:
- Ads
- Trackers
- Cryptocurrency miners
- GDPR popups
2. VPN Apps with Built-In Ad Blocking
Some VPNs come with ad-blocking features that block ads and trackers across all apps, not just Safari.
Surfshark with CleanWeb
Surfshark’s CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malware at the network level while securing your data via a VPN.
- Fast speeds
- Unlimited device connections
- Works with all apps
NordVPN Threat Protection Lite
NordVPN includes a Threat Protection Lite feature for iOS that blocks:
- Malicious websites
- Ads and trackers
- Known phishing URLs
This feature works directly in Safari and other browsers.
Proton VPN with NetShield
Proton VPN offers NetShield, a DNS-based ad blocker that works even outside your browser.
- Blocks malware, ads, and trackers
- Great privacy policies (based in Switzerland)
- Available on the free plan too
3. DNS-Based Ad Blocking Methods
If you want a system-wide solution, DNS-based ad blocking is your best bet. It works across all apps and browsers.
AdGuard DNS
This is a free DNS server that blocks ads and trackers before they even reach your device.
- No app required (just change your DNS settings)
- Two modes: Default & Family Protection
- Easy to set up with iOS configuration profiles
Use these DNS addresses:
94.140.14.1494.140.15.15
NextDNS
NextDNS acts like a custom firewall for your internet connection.
- Blocks ads and trackers
- Lets you build your own blocklists
- Offers analytics and parental control options
You can configure it on iOS using a custom profile.
Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 with Warp
Cloudflare’s DNS service boosts speed and privacy. With Warp+ and its Gateway options, you can also block:
- Malware domains
- Ad networks
Use the 1.1.1.1 app to get started.
Final Thoughts
Blocking ads on iOS no longer requires jailbreaking or technical expertise. Whether you prefer to block ads just in Safari or system-wide across all apps, there’s a solution for everyone. For the best experience, consider combining a DNS-level block with a Safari extension for full coverage.
Let me know if you want a step-by-step guide to set up any of these methods on your device!
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