AdGuard DNS offers a powerful yet straightforward solution for taking control of your online privacy and security. By routing your DNS queries through a secure, encrypted tunnel, it blocks trackers, phishing attempts, and malicious domains before they ever reach your operating system or router. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough for setting up AdGuard DNS across a wide variety of devices and network configurations.
Understanding AdGuard DNS and Its Core Benefits
Unlike your Internet Service Provider's default DNS, AdGuard DNS resolves domain names using globally distributed servers designed for speed and security. The primary advantage is its aggressive filtering capability, which stops ads and trackers at the network level. This filtering happens independently of your browser extensions, providing a cleaner slate for your entire internet connection.
Beyond blocking, the service prioritizes user privacy by adhering to a strict no-log policy. It ensures that your DNS history is not stored or used for profiling. For users concerned about surveillance or data harvesting, AdGuard DNS acts as a foundational privacy layer, complementing other security tools you might already use.
Choosing the Right AdGuard DNS Server Address
Before you begin the configuration, you need to select the server address that aligns with your filtering preferences. AdGuard provides distinct IP addresses for families, security, and non-filtered services. It is essential to choose the one that matches your intended use case to avoid unexpected content blocking or accessibility issues.
Filtering Level | IPv4 Address | IPv6 Address
Non-Filtered (Safe Search) | 94.140.14.14 | 2a10:50c0::ad:14
Family Protection (Adult Content) | 94.140.14.15 | 2a10:50c0::ad:15
Security (Malware/Phishing) | 94.140.14.16 | 2a10:50c0::ad:16
For most users seeking a balance of safety and privacy, the "Security" or "Family Protection" addresses are the recommended starting points. Selecting the correct address ensures that the filtering behavior aligns with your household or personal standards.
Configuring AdGuard DNS on Windows Systems
Setting up AdGuard DNS on a Windows PC is a quick process that modifies your network adapter settings. This method is ideal for single devices, providing immediate protection without altering your router's configuration.
Step-by-Step Windows Guide
Open the Control Panel and navigate to Network and Sharing Center.
Click on "Change adapter settings" located in the left-hand menu.
Right-click on your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and select Properties.
Double-click on "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" to open its settings.
Select "Use the following DNS server addresses" and enter the chosen AdGuard DNS IPs.
Click OK to save the changes, and the new DNS is now active.
Setting Up AdGuard DNS on macOS and iOS
Apple devices offer a seamless way to apply DNS settings system-wide. The process on macOS and iOS is nearly identical, ensuring consistency whether you are working on a desktop or mobile device.
macOS Configuration
Navigate to System Settings, then click on Network. Select your active Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection, click Details, and proceed to the DNS tab. You can remove any existing DNS entries and add the AdGuard IPs you selected earlier. The change takes effect immediately upon applying the settings.
