Our verdict: AdGuard for Windows filters traffic at the system level, so it removes ads and trackers not only in every browser but also in desktop apps, and adds phishing protection, DNS encryption and parental controls. It is more powerful than a browser extension, but it stops working when the trial ends, and the free AdGuard browser extension or uBlock Origin is enough if you only need to clean up web pages.
About AdGuard for Windows
AdGuard for Windows is a desktop ad blocker that works as a local filter for all network traffic instead of as a browser extension. It removes banners, video ads, pop-ups and widgets in all browsers and apps, blocks trackers, analytics and third-party cookies, warns about phishing, malicious and scam sites from a constantly updated database, and includes parental controls, DNS protection with encrypted DNS servers and a Browser Assistant to manage filtering from the browser.
The app needs an active trial or license to work. A 3-day trial starts without registration and can be extended to 14 days by creating an AdGuard account; after that all features stop until you activate a license. Licenses are universal across Windows, macOS, Android and iOS: the Personal license covers 3 devices and costs €29.89 per year before VAT on the official store as shown in Europe, a lifetime Personal license and a 9-device Family license are also offered. No card is needed for the trial.
What it does well
- System-wide ad blocking. Removes ads, pop-ups and video ads in all browsers and desktop apps.
- Tracking protection. Blocks trackers, analytics and third-party cookies.
- Browsing security. Warns about phishing, malicious and scam websites.
- DNS protection. Encrypts DNS traffic and lets you pick trusted DNS servers or add your own.
- Parental control. Filters adult content, hides it from search results and supports custom blocklists.
Who it is for
Good fit
People who want ads and trackers removed in desktop apps and every browser at once, with one license for PC and phone.
Look elsewhere
Users who only need ad blocking in one browser; free extensions such as uBlock Origin or the AdGuard extension cover that.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Blocks ads in desktop apps, not just browsers
- Tracking, phishing and DNS protection in one app
- One license covers Windows, Mac and mobile devices
- Lifetime license option
Cons
- Stops working after the trial without a paid license
- The full 14-day trial needs an AdGuard account
- High listed requirements: 6 GB RAM and 4 GB disk space
How to install AdGuard for Windows
The button downloads the official adguardInstaller.exe. The installer lets you choose the install folder and whether to add a desktop shortcut. On first launch accept the privacy documents and choose the protection settings. The 3-day trial starts without an account; sign up for an AdGuard account to extend it to 14 days. AdGuard lists Windows 10 or later, 6 GB RAM and 4 GB of free disk space as requirements.
Questions about AdGuard for Windows
Is AdGuard for Windows free?
No. It has a 3-day trial without registration, which you can extend to 14 days with a free AdGuard account. After that all features stop until you buy a license; a Personal license for 3 devices costs €29.89 per year before VAT on the official European store, and a lifetime option is available.
Is the AdGuard browser extension the same as AdGuard for Windows?
No. The browser extension is free but only filters that browser. AdGuard for Windows filters all browsers and apps and adds DNS protection and parental controls.
Does one AdGuard license work on my phone too?
Yes. AdGuard licenses are universal: a Personal license works on up to 3 devices running Windows, macOS, Android or iOS.
