We know the names can be confusing. AdBlock and AdBlock VPN are two separate products, and they do very different things. Here’s a quick guide to help clear things up.
What is AdBlock?
AdBlock is a browser extension and mobile app that blocks ads on websites.
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Removes most ads from web pages and videos.
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Helps pages load faster.
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Works on major desktop browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari) and mobile browsers (Safari on iOS and Samsung Browser on Android).
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Offers a free version and an optional paid upgrade, AdBlock Premium, with features like distraction blocking, customization, and access to AdBlock VPN. 👉 Learn more about AdBlock Premium.
AdBlock removes ads so you can browse distraction-free.
What is AdBlock VPN?
AdBlock VPN is an additional service that helps protect your online privacy and security.
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Encrypts your internet traffic.
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Hides your real IP address and location.
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Lets you browse securely on public Wi-Fi.
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Provides ad blocking and threat protection at the network level.
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Can help you access content that might otherwise be restricted in certain regions.
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Available on Windows, Android, Chrome OS, and as part of the AdBlock for Safari app on Mac and iOS.
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AdBlock VPN is only available with an AdBlock Premium subscription.
AdBlock VPN is primarily a privacy and security tool. It includes some ad blocking, but it isn't a substitute for AdBlock if you want the most complete ad-blocking experience.
What ads does the VPN block?
AdBlock VPN blocks ads at the network level by stopping connections to known ad-serving domains. This catches most third-party ads in your browsers and apps.
Some platforms, like YouTube, Reddit, and Facebook, serve ads from the same domains as their regular content. The VPN can't separate those ads from the content, so some of them may still appear, especially inside those platforms' own apps.
For the most complete ad blocking, use AdBlock VPN together with AdBlock in your browser:
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Windows: Install the AdBlock extension for Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
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macOS: The AdBlock for Safari & VPN app includes the VPN and in-browser ad-blocking in Safari. For Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, install the AdBlock browser extension.
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Android: Pair with AdBlock for Samsung Browser.
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iPhone or iPad: Use Safari, where AdBlock for Safari + VPN has active in-browser content-blocking.
👉 Learn more about how ad blocking works in the AdBlock VPN apps
Do I need both?
That depends on what you’re looking for:
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If your main goal is to stop seeing ads online → Use AdBlock.
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If you want extra online privacy and security, especially on public Wi-Fi → Use AdBlock VPN.
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If you want the best of both → Use AdBlock and AdBlock VPN together. The VPN protects your connection and filters ads across your device, while AdBlock catches ads the VPN can't reach.
Key Takeaways
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AdBlock blocks ads.
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AdBlock VPN protects your privacy.
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They're separate products, but they work best together.