AdGuard DNS

Overview

AdGuard DNS resolves DNS requests and can filter them to block ads, trackers, phishing, and malicious domains across connected devices. Public DNS provides preset filtering choices, while Private DNS adds controls for individual devices, parental settings, and request statistics. Enterprise DNS extends the service with an API and integrations for organizational security systems.

AdGuard was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus. The company describes AdGuard DNS as open source and says it complies with GDPR, collects only the minimum data necessary, and does not share that data with third parties. Its listed technical support contact is [email protected].

AdGuard DNS is listed in DNS Filtering Software and Internet Filtering Software.

Key features

Filtering and parental controls

Public DNS has Default, Family, and Non-filtering modes. Family mode blocks adult content and enables Safe Search and Safe Mode where possible. Private DNS users can make custom rules to allow or block domains, applying them to one device or globally. Parental controls can block adult content and schedule restrictions for sites such as social media.

Request statistics and logging

The dashboard shows DNS request statistics by date, country, or device, including which requests were blocked. Activity reports are described as advanced. Enterprise DNS stores request logs to produce statistics, but users can disable request logging in account settings.

Encrypted DNS and DNSSEC

Supported encrypted DNS protocols include DNSCrypt, DNS-over-HTTPS, DNS-over-TLS, and DNS-over-QUIC. DNSSEC uses digital signatures to help verify that stored DNS records are authentic.

Enterprise administration

Enterprise DNS offers a REST API for automation and integration with existing security control systems. Its enterprise page also describes integration with AdGuard Ad Blocker and AdGuard VPN. Enterprise customers are offered priority support, technical documentation, setup guides, API documentation, and email support.

Pricing

AdGuard DNS is freemium. The Starter plan is free at 0.00 USD per free, provided by default. A 30-day trial is listed, but the available pricing details do not state a price for the paid personal or team plans.

The pricing FAQ says one-year subscriptions have a 30-day money-back guarantee; monthly subscriptions are non-refundable.

Platforms

Listed platforms include Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as routers and game consoles. The broader platform listing also includes API, web, and self-hosted support.

Who it's for

AdGuard DNS offers options for individuals, small businesses, and larger companies. The pricing FAQ positions Personal for personal use, Team for small businesses, and Enterprise for larger organizations. Its mix of preset modes and configurable rules may suit people who want DNS filtering at home, while request analytics and API access address administrative needs. The listed device limit is 20 devices; Enterprise is described separately as allowing unlimited devices, servers, and DNS requests.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Multiple public filtering modes, custom allow and block rules, parental scheduling, and request statistics.
• Pros: Supports four encrypted DNS protocols and DNSSEC.
• Pros: The free plan is provided by default, and Enterprise includes API access and priority support.
• Cons: Personal and Team prices are not listed in the available pricing details.
• Cons: Monthly subscriptions are non-refundable.

Alternatives

Other options in this area include CleanBrowsing, Control D, NextDNS, Quad9, Technitium DNS Server, GoGuardian DNS, and Infoblox Cloud Network Automation. For other AdGuard software, see AdGuard.

Verdict

AdGuard DNS combines DNS filtering with device-specific rules, parental controls, and request visibility. Its free Starter plan makes the service accessible without an upfront listed cost, while paid tiers cover personal, team, and enterprise use. The main pricing caveat is that Personal and Team have no numeric prices in the available details, so buyers will need to check current plan pricing before choosing between them.