Pi-hole is a self-hosted DNS filtering service that blocks selected domains for devices using it as their resolver, with query logs, allowlists, blocklists, and a dashboard for managing filtering across a local network.
DNS-based filtering
Query logs
Domain allowlists
Network dashboard
Is it a good fit?
Best suited to
Home and small-network administrators managing DNS filtering
Before you choose
Cannot block every kind of advertisement. Devices can bypass the configured resolver.
Editorial assessment based on the provider’s published information. Our method
Know what you're signing up for.
The listed Pi-hole software is available without a license fee under EUPL-1.2. Included capabilities cover dns-based filtering, query logs, domain allowlists. Free self-hosted DNS software; hardware, upstream resolver services, and administration are separate.
Open-source software
$0ongoing software access
Free self-hosted DNS software; hardware, upstream resolver services, and administration are separate.
Pi-hole is a useful option for home and small-network administrators managing DNS filtering. Install on an always-available host and point one test device at it before changing network-wide DNS settings. Start with a small, representative task so you can check the results before extending the setup.
Review blocked queries when an application breaks, and keep a recovery path for DNS changes if the host becomes unavailable. Consider the practical trade-off: cannot block every kind of advertisement.
A few things you might be wondering.
Is Pi-hole free?
The listed Pi-hole software is available without a license fee under EUPL-1.2. Included capabilities cover dns-based filtering, query logs, domain allowlists. Free self-hosted DNS software; hardware, upstream resolver services, and administration are separate.
Will Pi-hole remove all video ads?
No. DNS filtering cannot reliably separate ads served from the same domains as desired content.
Does every device need an app?
No. Devices generally use it through their DNS configuration.
Where can I check the latest prices?
Use the provider link on this page. Billing period, location, team size, promotions, taxes, and optional extras may affect the amount you pay.
How should I compare this tool with alternatives?
Choose tools for the same task, then compare their feature limits, platform support, and total cost for your team. The Compare button helps you keep a shortlist.
Are the user reviews moderated?
Yes. New reviews are submitted for moderation. We show published user reviews separately from the editorial overview and never assign a default user rating.
Tor Browser routes browsing through the Tor network and includes privacy-oriented browser protections, helping users reduce tracking, reach onion services, and access websites through a network of volunteer-operated relays rather than a direct connection.
Free & open source
Free browser and Tor access; no paid anonymity tier or guarantee of universal site access.
AdGuard Home is a self-hosted DNS server that filters advertising and tracking domains for a network, offering per-client controls, query logs, and support for encrypted DNS connections through a browser-based administration interface.
Free & open source
Free self-hosted application; paid AdGuard products and hosted services are separate.
Firefox is a web browser with configurable privacy controls and an independent browser engine. It includes tabbed browsing, tracking protection, and extension support. It is aimed at web users who want a customizable browser with privacy settings.
Open-source software
Privacy settings cannot prevent every form of website tracking.
Brave is a Chromium-based browser with built-in controls for blocking advertisements and common web trackers. It includes ad blocking, tracker controls, and tabbed browsing. It is aimed at users who want integrated blocking controls in a familiar browser.
Open-source software
Blocking can disrupt sites that depend on advertising or third-party scripts.
