Stopping ads on your phone involves a combination of using built-in settings, downloading ad-blocking apps, and adjusting your browser settings. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you reduce or stop ads on your Android or iOS device:
Table of Contents
1. Block Ads on Android Devices
A. Using Built-In Settings
- Disable Personalization
- Go to Settings > Google > Ads.
- Turn on Opt out of Ads Personalization.
- Restrict Background Data
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage.
- Select the app you want to restrict and toggle Restrict Background Data.
B. Using Ad-Blocking Apps
- AdGuard
- Download AdGuard from the AdGuard website or the Play Store.
- Follow the installation instructions and enable the necessary permissions.
- Blokada
- Download Blokada from the official website or the Play Store.
- Open the app, and enable ad blocking.
C. Using a Private DNS
- Configure Private DNS
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced > Private DNS.
- Select Private DNS provider hostname.
- Enter a provider like
dns.adguard.com
ordns.quad9.net
and save.
D. Adjusting Browser Settings
- Chrome Browser
- Open Chrome and go to Settings > Site settings > Pop-ups and redirects.
- Toggle the switch to block pop-ups and redirects.
- Go to Settings > Site settings > Ads and toggle to block ads.
- Firefox Browser
- Open Firefox and go to Settings > Enhanced Tracking Protection.
- Choose Strict to block trackers and ads.
2. Block Ads on iOS Devices
A. Using Built-In Settings
- Limit Ad Tracking
- Go to Settings > Privacy > Apple Advertising.
- Toggle Personalized Ads to off.
B. Using Ad-Blocking Apps
- AdGuard for iOS
- Download AdGuard from the App Store.
- Follow the setup instructions and enable ad blocking in Safari.
- 1Blocker
- Download 1Blocker from the App Store.
- Open the app, configure the settings, and enable it in Safari via Settings > Safari > Content Blockers.
C. Adjusting Browser Settings
- Safari Browser
- Go to Settings > Safari > Content Blockers.
- Enable your chosen content blocker (e.g., AdGuard, 1Blocker).
- Go to Settings > Safari > Block Pop-ups and toggle to on.
- Go to Settings > Safari > Prevent Cross-Site Tracking and toggle to on.
3. General Tips for Both Android and iOS
A. Avoiding Intrusive Apps
- Check App Permissions
- Go to Settings > Apps (or Applications) > Select an app > Permissions.
- Disable unnecessary permissions that may allow intrusive ads.
- Uninstall Ad-Heavy Apps
- Identify and uninstall apps that are known for displaying excessive ads.
B. Using a Secure Browser
- Download Brave Browser
- Brave Browser blocks ads and trackers by default. Download it from the Play Store or App Store.
C. Using a VPN with Ad-Blocking
- NordVPN or ProtonVPN
- Some VPNs, like NordVPN or ProtonVPN, offer built-in ad-blocking features.
- Download and subscribe to a VPN service with ad-blocking capabilities, then enable the ad-blocking feature in the app settings.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce or stop ads on your Android or iOS device, leading to a cleaner and more enjoyable mobile experience.
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