Ultimate Guide to Ad Blocking on Android Phones and Tablets

Prerequisites

Before we get into it, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need:

  • Rooted Android Device: The methods here work for rooted devices, including popular models like the Galaxy S21, S21 Ultra, and more.
  • TWRP Recovery Installed: While not mandatory for every method, having TWRP makes things easier.
  • Backup Your Device: It’s always a good idea to back up your device before making any changes.
  • Internet Connection: You’ll need to download a few files along the way.

Download Links:

Using AdAway to Block Ads

AdAway is a powerful tool that blocks ads across your entire device. It does this by modifying the hosts file to prevent ad servers from delivering ads to your apps and websites.

Download and Install AdAway

Let’s get AdAway installed on your device.

  • Enable Installation from Unknown Sources: Go to Settings > Security > Install unknown apps and allow it for the app you’re using to download the file.
  • Install the APK: Open the downloaded APK file and follow the prompts to install AdAway.

Grant Root Permissions to AdAway

AdAway needs root access to modify the hosts file, which is crucial for blocking ads.

  • Open AdAway: Launch the app.
  • Grant Root Access: When asked, tap “Grant” to give AdAway the permissions it needs.

Update Hosts Files

Now, let’s block those ads by updating the hosts file.

  • Select ‘Download files and apply ad blocking’: This option downloads the latest ad-blocking hosts files.
  • Apply the Hosts Files: AdAway will take care of applying these files to your system.

Reboot Your Device

Rebooting is the final step to make sure everything is working properly.

  • Reboot the Device: Hold the power button and select “Restart.”
  • Check for Blocked Ads: Open a few apps or browse the web to see if the ads are gone.

Blocking Ads with Magisk Modules

Magisk users have a convenient option with ad-blocking modules that can be easily installed.

Install Magisk

If you haven’t installed Magisk yet, here’s how to do it.

  • Install Magisk: Follow the prompts to install Magisk Manager.
  • Flash Magisk through TWRP: Boot into TWRP recovery and flash the Magisk ZIP file. This roots your device with Magisk.

Install an Ad-Blocking Magisk Module

With Magisk set up, you can install an ad-blocking module.

  • Open Magisk Manager: Launch the app.
  • Go to the Modules Section: Tap the modules icon at the bottom.
  • Search for Ad-Blocking Modules: Look for modules like “AdBlock” or “Energized Protection.”
  • Install the Module: Tap on the module to install it, then reboot your device.

Verify Ad Blocking

After installing the module, check to see if ads are being blocked.

  • Open Apps and Websites: Browse around to confirm ads are blocked.
  • Adjust Settings if Needed: Fine-tune the settings in Magisk Manager if necessary.

Using AdGuard for System-Wide Ad Blocking

AdGuard is a solid option for blocking ads across your entire device, from apps to browsers and everything in between.

Download and Install AdGuard

Here’s how to get AdGuard on your device.

  • Enable Unknown Sources: Go to Settings > Security > Install unknown apps and allow it for the app you’re using.
  • Install the APK: Open the downloaded file and follow the installation instructions.

Configure AdGuard with Root Access

With root access, AdGuard can block ads even more effectively.

  • Open AdGuard: Launch the app.
  • Grant Root Access: When asked, grant AdGuard the necessary permissions.
  • Enable HTTPS Filtering: Go to Settings > HTTPS Filtering and turn it on to block ads in encrypted traffic.
  • Turn On System-Wide Ad Blocking: Make sure the system-wide ad-blocking feature is activated.

Customize Filters

You can customize the ad-blocking experience with various filters in AdGuard.

  • Go to Filters Section: In AdGuard, navigate to the filters section.
  • Enable Predefined Filters: Turn on filters like “AdGuard Base Filter” and “Social Media Filter.”
  • Add Custom Filters if Needed: You can add more filters if you want to block specific content.

Test Ad Blocking

Finally, check to see if AdGuard is doing its job.

  • Open Apps and Websites: Test by visiting apps and websites that usually show ads.
  • Adjust Settings if Necessary: If ads are still showing, tweak the settings in AdGuard.

There you have it—simple, effective ways to block ads on your rooted Android device. Whether you prefer using apps like AdAway and AdGuard or going the manual route with hosts files and Magisk modules, you can now enjoy an ad-free experience on your device. Ready to take control of your device and kick those ads to the curb? Give these methods a try!