AdGuardSupport centerFAQAdGuard Mini for AndroidAbout AdGuard Mini for AndroidAbout the settingsWhat is a local VPN, and why does AdGuard Mini for Android need it?

What is a local VPN, and why does AdGuard Mini for Android need it?

To block unwanted domains, AdGuard Mini for Android needs to see your device’s DNS requests first. Android has strict rules here: one app can’t process traffic from others. The only way to do it is through the system VPN feature.
That’s why the app creates a local VPN on your device. Don’t let the name confuse you: everything happens right on your phone. AdGuard Mini for Android checks DNS requests, blocks the unwanted ones, and lets everything else through. Your IP address and location stay the same, and your traffic never goes to remote servers.
So when the app asks for permission to create a VPN connection, it’s not about hiding you online. It’s just how DNS protection works on Android. Without this permission, DNS protection won’t turn on.

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Downloading AdGuard To install AdGuard, click the file indicated by the arrow Select "Open" and click "OK", then wait for the file to be downloaded. In the opened window, drag the AdGuard icon to the "Applications" folder. Thank you for choosing AdGuard! Select "Open" and click "OK", then wait for the file to be downloaded. In the opened window, click "Install". Thank you for choosing AdGuard!
Install AdGuard on your mobile device
Installation
AdGuard for Android is available in the following app stores:
AppGallery
Mi Store
Samsung Galaxy Store
AdGuard can’t be published on Google Play. For more details, check out our blog. If you’re using Google Play, follow these instructions to manually install AdGuard for Android.

1. Allow downloading

If your browser displays a warning, allow downloading adguard.apk.

Installation permissions

If installations from your browser are not allowed, you’ll get a notification. In this notification, tap Settings → Allow from this source.

Note for Samsung users with One UI 6 (Android 14) and newer

On some Samsung devices, the Auto Blocker feature may prevent APK installations. To install the app:
Open your device settings.
Go to Security and privacy.
Scroll down and tap Auto Blocker.
Disable the setting.
You can re-enable this feature after the installation.

2. Install the app

In the pop-up dialog, tap Install.

3. Launch the app

Wait for the installation to complete and tap Open. All done!
Scan to download
Use any QR-code reader available on your device
Scan to download
Use any QR-code reader available on your device
Download an older AdGuard version?
This OS version isn’t supported. You can use an older version of AdGuard, but it won't receive updates
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