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.