DNS66

Active

Founded: 2016
Developer: Jakub Klinkovský (Jakub 'jak' Klinkovský)
Pricing: Free (open-source)
Open source: Yes
Platforms: Android

Indexes

Ad Blockers

Overview

DNS66 is a DNS-based host blocker for Android that filters DNS queries to block ads, malware, and tracking domains using customizable host lists. It operates by establishing a local VPN service that intercepts DNS traffic without requiring root access, allowing or blocking requests based on blacklists. The app is designed for users seeking system-wide ad blocking and enhanced privacy on non-rooted devices, distinguishing itself by filtering only DNS traffic for lower battery usage compared to full traffic proxies.

Key Features

DNS-based Filtering - Intercepts DNS queries via local VPN to block blacklisted hosts for ads and malware.
Custom Host Lists - Supports multiple pre-configured and user-added host files like MVPS Hosts and Peter Lowe's list.
Custom DNS Servers - Configurable upstream DNS servers, including no-logging options from Chaos Computer Club.
Per-App Control - Option to enable or disable blocking for specific apps.
RecyclerView Management - Interact to add, remove, or reorder hosts and DNS entries.
Privacy-Focused - Reduces data leakage by blocking requests without adding extra tracking.
No Root Required - Operates solely via Android VPN API without device modifications.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Free	$0	Full ad blocking, host lists, DNS customization, no limits.

Platforms & Requirements

DNS66 runs exclusively on Android devices via a local VPN service, compatible with Android versions supporting VPN APIs (typically Android 4.0+). No specific minimum hardware requirements beyond standard Android capabilities; enable 'unknown sources' for APK installation from F-Droid or direct download. Limitation: Cannot run alongside other VPN apps as Android allows only one active VPN.

Integrations & Ecosystem

F-Droid repository
GitHub source code
Custom host list URLs (e.g., MVPS Hosts, Peter Lowe)
Chaos Computer Club DNS servers
AdAway-compatible host formats
Custom DNS server import
Hosts file refresh via URL
Per-app exclusion lists

Alternatives

App	Difference
AdAway	Requires root access for hosts file modification, unlike DNS66's rootless VPN approach.
AdGuard	Filters all traffic as full VPN proxy, higher battery use than DNS66's DNS-only method.
NetGuard	Firewall app blocking app connections, not DNS-specific ad blocking like DNS66.
Blokada	Similar VPN-based blocker but includes proxy features and Play Store availability.

Reputation

DNS66 is regarded as a reliable, lightweight, rootless ad blocker praised for effective DNS-level filtering and low battery impact among privacy enthusiasts on F-Droid and GitHub. Users appreciate its simplicity, customizability with host lists, and inclusion of no-log DNS servers. Some criticisms note occasional issues with custom DNS server usage or incomplete filtering of non-DNS traffic, and it's unavailable on Google Play, requiring sideloading.

Sources (9)