While most ads on the web today are merely a nuisance, there are some that pose a real threat to the health of your device and possibly even your personal information.

Adware and Ad Blockers

As adware becomes even more pervasive in the Internet experience, users may find themselves wanting to block ads altogether. Enter: ad blocking software.

At Identity Guard, we believe that taking a proactive approach to online security is the best way to ensure the health of your devices and the confidentiality of your personal data. By installing an ad blocker on your device, you can help ensure that you'll never even see a harmful ad, while also blocking most of the ads that probably annoy you anyway.

So, which ad blockers do we recommend? We have two recommendations included below, so please take a moment to read about them and then make a decision for yourself. Of course, if you have any questions, our Support staff is happy to help!

uBlock Origin

Microsoft Edge - Mozilla Firefox - Google Chrome - Safari

uBlock Origin is a rather new ad blocker. Launched around 2015, uBlock Origin uses newer technology that is compatible across most computers and browsers. uBlock will block all ads that try to come through. This is great for most but keep in mind there is no whitelist option or an option to accept some ads. The interface is great on the main views but once you dive into the settings menu, it loses its simplicity. On the bright side, it has a colorblind option for users that require it and uBlock will use less RAM (memory) when enabled as compared to AdBlock Plus. 

AdBlock Plus

Microsoft Edge - Mozilla Firefox - Google Chrome - Safari

AdBlock Plus is an older ad blocker. Originally launched in 2002, and then re-vamped in 2010, AdBlock Plus is also compatible across most computers and browsers. AdBlock will block most ads but certain companies have the option to pay extra to keep their ads visible. These are called acceptable ads and can usually be disabled via the Adblock Plus settings menu. The interface is rather simple and easy to use including the settings menu. There is also an option to add languages if you browse the web in more than one language.