Adguard alternatives?

[axbeet]

I am looking for a way to block adult websites and ads at the Router level.

I changed my DNS servers in the router to point to Adguards DNS Family Protection, and was impressed. Ads are being blocked, adult content is being blocked, and search engines are forced into safe search. I liked how easy it was, but Youtube comments are being blocked and that's a show stopper for me. What are my alternatives? Is OpenDNS and Diversion a good option? I have AC56U, and I believe I can flash to Merlin and get Diversion. Other options? Thank you in advance!

 

[RMerlin]

Cleanbrowsing is another alternative.

CleanBrowsing | DNS Filtering Platform

Affordable DNS Filtering for schools, municipalities, libraries, transportation and parents.

cleanbrowsing.org

They have a semi-hidden free service:

Free DNS Filtering | Block Online Porn with CleanBrowsing

Free DNS Filters by CleanBrowsing allow you to filter adult, pornography, obscene and other similar content from your internet.

cleanbrowsing.org

 

[XIII]

NextDNS offers parental controls: https://nextdns.io

You can test it out using the free tier, but will probably need the (affordable) paid plan for serious usage.

(I use NextDNS Pro to block ads/malware, but never tried the parental controls)

 

[axbeet]

Thanks Folks. I might (?) have found an acceptable alternative. I'm just starting to experiment with it.

I downloaded the Merlin firmware for my router. Under AIProtection & Parental Controls, I blocked adult content on all clients. Unlike Adguard Family DNS, I still seem to have Youtube comments.

To get rid of ads, I went under WAN, said "NO' to connect to DNS server automatically and I used Adguard DNS servers 94.140.14.14 and 94.140.15.15. These DNS do not include family filtering.

When I google naughty sights via Google or Bing, I get notice that I'm using safesearch. Please note, that it only took me a few minutes to find ways to get adult content despite these settings, so this will not stop anyone who is determined to find adult content, but perhaps it will reduce inadvertent exposure.

Any suggestions appreciated.

If anyone happens to know of links with typical ways to secure your router when running Merlin, that would be appreciated. I'm just starting to search that up. So far, the defaults seem to be fairly secure based on the little I know.

 

[BreakingDad]

You could run adguard home or pihole off a £30 raspberry pi, and set a rule to allow you tube, that's essentially what I do. It's fun to set up as well if you're a nerd like me.

I believe they are also setting up a managed dns soon, so you can manage these things without having to run your own server. You can register your interest below.

AdGuard DNS — ad-blocking DNS server

Create your ad-blocking DNS server that will protect your personal data, prevent tracking and allow you to control access to specific content on the Internet.

adguard-dns.com

 

[axbeet]

Thank you......raspberry pi might be beyond my nerd abilities

I found this website to be of some use in locking down my router. I thought I would share it in case someone comes after and is looking for the same: https://www.asus.com/support/FAQ/1039292/

 

[BreakingDad]

raspberry pi might be beyond my nerd abilities

I doubt that, if I can do it, I suspect anyone can.

 

[Clark Griswald]

@axbeet

Setting Up and Using a Pi is Griswald Easy!

 

[BreakingDad]

@axbeet

Setting Up and Using a Pi is Griswald Easy!

Just like those Christmas lights

 

[Tech9]

Setting Up and Using a Pi is Griswald Easy!

Good your daughter was there to help you. Otherwise you'll be still reading about Pi-hole.

 

[Clark Griswald]

When I google naughty sights via Google or Bing, I get notice that I'm using safesearch. Please note, that it only took me a few minutes to find ways to get adult content despite these settings, so this will not stop anyone who is determined to find adult content, but perhaps it will reduce inadvertent exposure.

As a parent I went through the headache of finding an acceptable "internet filter", yet quickly found that preteens/teenagers are able to bypass any barrier I placed. Do your best to secure your intranet/internet and talk to your kids regarding what you expect, Good Luck.

 

[Paliv]

talk to your kids regarding what you expect

I think this is the most pertinent. Not that it always works, and my kids aren't teens yet. But they will always find a work around. I know I did, though it was more of the wild west back then.

 

[Clark Griswald]

Good your daughter was there to help you. Otherwise you'll be still reading about Pi-hole.

She and I are currently building a Magic Mirror.
Located a two-way mirror and frame locally, and she found Magic Mirror
After watching Youtube I've mastered the art of "Copy and Paste"

 

[L&LD]

@Clark Griswald, you're a cool dad!

If I promise to act like a 10-year-old 24/7, will you consider unofficially adopting me?

 

[Clark Griswald]

@Clark Griswald, you're a cool dad!

If I promise to act like a 10-year-old 24/7, will you consider unofficially adopting me?

Daughter is 8, so that is my limit. I'm just trying to keep up technically with the 3rd grader.

Back on topic-
My teen son sent me a text yesterday asking me to whitelist a site, so the limited "blocking" and the talking seem to have worked, or he was too lazy to bypass.