Over the weekend, I purchased a Galaxy S10. It’s the Verizon variant and as such wont get root. I’m actually not interested in root as my last phone was missing the last few years updates as I did the Ron Popiel, “Set it and forget it”. I’m all good there and am rather happy with it since I had an S5 running Lollipop.
Before upgrading, I asked some questions regarding whether I needed root as my main desire was to be able to use ad blocking software and block ads in applications. I was told to use Blokada. I’ve installed it and it’s not doing what I expected. What it does:
1. It installed a VPN which I keep having to turn on and off.
2. It does not block ads in all applications.
3. It prevents some apps from working: Spectrum, NFL…
Coming from AdAway, I was looking for a program that ran in the background and simply blocked ads. This program does not and now that it installed a VPN, It’s going to cause trouble for me when I want to use the corporate VPN to access my work computer. Besides, not being unobtrusive, the fact that it’s using a VPN means that whoever built the program now has access to my data stream.
Does some know if maybe I’ve misconfigured the program or if there is another program that I should use to achieve seamless background operation.
Maybe all I need is alterative DNS servers so ads won’t load. I’m not sure what to do.
Use Blokada or Adguard, or at least that's what I've used. I actually use paid version of Adguard but the other works fine
https://blokada.org/index.html
I'm using AdGuard DNS with a Quick Settings toggle I've made with Tasker to enable and disable it on the fly.
No app needed, it's fast and works like a charm even in apps or YouTube.
I need to disable it for public WiFi with login to make the login sites work, only. If I'm logged it I re-enable it.
I was using AdAway before but I wanted to try a rootless phone after I had issues with my USB Port and I like it.
I just tried Blokada again. I found that I could use the DNS frature and be protected from ads, but spectrum tells me, "VPN Unsupported". how do I get around this and not use VPN to block Ads?
Related
Hey folks!
I followed the instructions posted by allcaps33 at http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=53549710 to get provisioning disabled, and the native hotspot app is working for me now! I just wanted to confirm if this was an operation similar to running Wifi Tether Router on an unlocked/rooted device (I had an S2Sky prior that I tethered off of regularly). I've got one of those too-rare Unlimited Data plans and am traveling cross-country, made possible by being able to tether my laptop to my phone to work. Just wanting to confirm that this was relatively as secure as using the Wifi Tether Router on my S2Sky. On a semi-related note, that app doesn't seem to want to run properly on my S5; when I click Enable Router it turns on the Wifi, which immediately connects to the house's wired router. It still broadcasts but doesn't send data, and it's hit or miss if a device can even connect to it from there.
Next question - I'm used to flashing a CM ROM within the first couple days of getting a new phone, which doesn't seem feasible just yet with the S5 (from what I can tell anyway; I'm not used to having a current-gen device). I've heard about the myriad evils of OTA updates, and was hoping to get help on how to disable them. I would like to avoid my device upgrading to a point where my above-stated desired functionality is disabled. Ideally, I'd like to get rid of the various bloatware apps as well, though am not sure how to go about that.
I appreciate your time and support, and thanks for being a community that's always been there for me as I derp along with my fancy internet boxes!
Hi!
The absolute easiest way is to use Rom Toolbox. I have the pro version, but I believe it's available in the lite version as well.
Download and open up RTB.
Tap on "App Manager"
Then scroll down until you see "AT&T Software Update"
Tap on it.
A popup will display. Swipe from right to left, and you will be on the "Advanced" tab.
Scroll down and tap on "Advanced Freeze."
You will come to a screen which shows you the Activities, Recievers, Services, and Providers. Tap on EACH box/line. This will Disable OTA services.
We're not done yet!
Go back to the App Manager screen again, and repeat the process for an app called "LocalFOTA"
Finished!
I also Disable most of the bloatware and Knox this way.
Have fun!
---------- Post added at 12:58 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:49 PM ----------
Now for the hard part...
Yes this can be as secure as the other the tether. Ensure you use and change the password service with the app.
As for the tether turning your wifi on, it is supposed to do that. The best way to get this to work is to turn the tether on and off (then on again). If this does not work, try emptying the data/cache for the built-in tether app. And start from scratch.
allcaps33 said:
I also Disable most of the bloatware and Knox this way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
KNOX - What is it? I'm under the impression it's some sort of security for the phone, to protect from malicious activity that you might not be aware of, but also that it'll "tattle" on you if you mod your phone in a way AT&T doesn't approve.
Knox is two things.
1) It is a security container for apps. It works as both a license/drm type software for Samsung official apps.
And
2) Android contains a root environment at all times. This is what makes SU possible. It used to be quite easy to invoke Android system calls as root.
Root is actually separate from super user. Knox, like SEPolicy, helps dev companies detect, halt, and/or hinder apps, not su itself, but apps that that use these root system calls.
Be wise, even though Knox itself does not "report" these types of actions, it still logs them. And there are other apps that can read these logs and send out these reports. I should say (and I'm only guessing) that only work/company issued phones are setup like this. Not your personal phone.
In fact, our phones actually contain a file which logs all root system calls. It has nothing to do with Knox but, I believe this binary is what hinders us open devs, but makes it easy for Samsung and AT&T to restore/repair our phones.
For more info on Knox:
https://www.samsungknox.com/en/partners/app-developers
I'm still seeing Android System using the lion's share of my battery life and I've started looking at the services running within it. The IPSec service is always near the top of the Android System pile and I was wondering if it's safe to disable it.
Some light Googling is turning up the service is related to VPN networking but there's not much more available (at least at an entry level of understanding). This link provides a decent understanding. I don't use remote access or corporate VPNs. My only real question is if I disable it using the App manager, are there routine functions that might be disabled? Should I be weary about Samsung Pay?
Thanks!
Finaly have you find a solution ? i'm reseaching on google and i can't find how disable ipsec on android , if you have know how do this , please let me know
Root your phone to enable super user abilities, and search for ipsec in rom manager, then disable it.
Realizing Im going back in time.. Or if you have a device like the Samsung S6 Active, an AT&T branded, close to perfect device which I have yet to find a way to Unlock the bootloader and root ..? Try AdHell-2. The link(s) are here at XDA. You must... 1.) Create a Samsung Account, 2.) Apply for a Developers Account SEAP, 3.) Request a License Key, 4.) Toggle On Unknown Sources in Settings/Lockscreen & Security/Unknown Sources, 5.) Install the AdHell-2 .apk, 6.) Then Activate the App by Copying your License Key. * This is a great App which not only serves as a highly-efficient Ad Block, but also allows for the Disabling of System and User Apps. Anyone reading this know of a way to root the S6 Active?
Good day!
As stated on the title, how can I remove ads in my Huawei P10 without rooting my phone? I know Adawy or Adguard can do the trick if you're rooted, but how if I'm not?
Is there a way we can do this via ADB shell command? I don't want to use DNS66 or any VPN that will eat my battery or RAM usage. I hope someone can answer this query. And I hope this is possible.
Thanks!
Hi.
As far as I know, there is no way to prevent ads from your phone without root.
Greets
I'm using blokada. It's just like dns66 and the others.
It's just open source, heavily developed and does not eat all my battery or resources.
blokada.org
I prefer Adguard on non-rooted devices. It's basically internal firewall and the reason it shows any battery usage is because its heading all the data through this firewall - but it's not really consuming much of the power. As a matter of fact it usually prolongs battery life if properly set up. Works like a charm with EMUI 5.1 tiles.
The pro version could cost just about 12$ for lifetime if purchased made in RUB. Strongly recommend to try a free trial.
Thanks for your feedback guys. I will consider your suggestions.
bauer18 said:
Good day!
As stated on the title, how can I remove ads in my Huawei P10 without rooting my phone? I know Adawy or Adguard can do the trick if you're rooted, but how if I'm not?
Is there a way we can do this via ADB shell command? I don't want to use DNS66 or any VPN that will eat my battery or RAM usage. I hope someone can answer this query. And I hope this is possible.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recommend using Adguard DNS servers.. I'm pretty happy with it. Doesn't remove everything, but helps a lot.
-> https://adguard.com/en/adguard-dns/overview.html
snydersdoc said:
I recommend using Adguard DNS servers.. I'm pretty happy with it. Doesn't remove everything, but helps a lot.
-> https://adguard.com/en/adguard-dns/overview.html
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Click to collapse
Thanks for this suggestion but this only works when you are connected to WiFi since you can modify your WiFi settings. But, how about if you're using your mobile data connection? I can't see any option where I can add Adguard DNS servers in mobile data settings. Any recommendations without using a third party app like DNS changer?
The only way to block ads without root is via a VPN - but most of those, including the ones mentioned above mean you have to rely on a 3rd party having access to all your traffic.
I'm using NetGuard and this uses the local VPN on the phone without an external server (unless you want to include one) - its by the same dev who wrote the amazing Xposed module called Xprivacy:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/apps-games/app-netguard-root-firewall-t3233012
I think there is another way doing this. Is there anyway to mount /etc/ on computer, probably using adb?
If that is available as option, could generate hosts file using adaway no rooted device and copy manually file.
Could that be possible on locked device?
P10 Android 8 VTRL-29 8.0.0.360(C432)
Does it require root? And if so, is there a way to do it that is minimally impactful to the stock software already on the phone?
The reason I ask is that I've never been 100% satisfied with how custom ROMs have worked or how the phones I've had have seemed to experience issues post-hacking. Ideally I'd be able to keep what comes stock and just be able to make the ads go away, both apps and websites.
What would this group recommend for a new Moto X4?
How about set up OpenVPN and something like Pi Hole on your home network. Then when out & about VPN into your home network to get mobile ad blocking as well. Could be some cost and fiddling for sure.
Ya I hear you on that (having rooted devices in the past but not wanting to now)
For web browsing it's fairly easy. Install Firefox then the uBlock origin add on.
Thanks. Hoping for something non-browser specific if I can that also blocks ads inside apps. I did end up finding this and so far it's worked ok. It's a VPN proxy app.
https://android.gadgethacks.com/how...pps-without-root-extra-battery-drain-0174614/
Yeah its called buying the one thats not from amazon.
Yes, With Root you can Install AdAway. It simply populates your HOSTS file with all the ad sites, thus preventing any app from retrieving ads.
I'd recommend dns66, which is non-root and creates a local VPN provider for the sole purpose of blocking DNS queries to known ad hosts, similar to how the root apps do it except with the VPN instead of modifying /etc/hosts.
Although it does not remove the banner ads. Those ads probably come from a host that is not on blocklists; or since it comes through the app, it can't be singled out like normal.
Also, you currently cannot root the Amazon edition since the bootloader is not unlockable.
Android 9 supports "Private DNS" which uses DNS-over-TLS to provide better security and privacy, I set my X4 to "dns.google" instead of "automatic", as per this article: https://android-developers.googleblog.com/2018/04/dns-over-tls-support-in-android-p.html
- looking for some insights/comments on a subject of practical benefits of this feature.
Google private DNS setup: https://developers.google.com/speed/public-dns/docs/using#android
A DNS over TLS connection is encrypted in the same way HTTPS is. It can also sometimes be quicker than the default DNS (correct me if I'm wrong about this). However, airports and some other places do not allow external DNS, forcing you to turn it off.
MisterFribble said:
A DNS over TLS connection is encrypted in the same way HTTPS is. It can also sometimes be quicker than the default DNS (correct me if I'm wrong about this). However, airports and some other places do not allow external DNS, forcing you to turn it off.
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Click to collapse
Good to know that, I was setting up my new router at home the other day, so I went through some web sites getting some info and ended up changing all DNS/iPvs etc..., that's how I stumbled upon that 'tls' thing and was wondering if it has any merit to it. My desktop browser(Firefox) used to be very slow and now it's pulling pages really fast after changing to Google DNS from random default. Am suspecting my cable co. has been monitoring my web traffic, slowing it down.
With dns.adguard the phone has functional add blocker, tried several free apps from the play store and it seem to filter adverts out pretty good, no standalone app just the private dns set up:
mzsquared said:
With dns.adguard the phone has functional add blocker, tried several free apps from the play store and it seem to filter adverts out pretty good, no standalone app just the private dns set up:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. But it still lets a few ads though. So if there is a better dns-over-tls alternative to adguard I'm open to trying it.
Nezzox said:
I agree. But it still lets a few ads though. So if there is a better dns-over-tls alternative to adguard I'm open to trying it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can try adguard.apk. I like just the simple dns thing. Here is a link w/ a lot of information about it, see all the comments below the article:
https://www.androidpolice.com/2018/...wn-dns-service-and-it-works-with-android-pie/
mzsquared said:
You can try adguard.apk. I like just the simple dns thing. Here is a link w/ a lot of information about it, see all the comments below the article:
https://www.androidpolice.com/2018/...wn-dns-service-and-it-works-with-android-pie/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I used blokada before. The point for me is to find something that enables me to not use a apk. The ideal solution would be to have a more aggressive dns-over-tls adblocking since it's possible in Android pie. I feel that adguard is too allowing and does not fair well in blocking ads delivered from Facebook or local ads.