How to Use AdGuard VPN: Complete Feature Guide (2026)

Quick Start

This guide covers every AdGuard VPN feature:

• Getting Started — Create account and basic setup
• How to Use Ad Blocker — Block ads, pop-ups, and trackers across devices
• How to Use DNS — Filter traffic at the DNS level for extra protection
• How to Use VPN — Encrypt your connection and hide your IP address
• How to Use Temp Mail — Create disposable emails to avoid spam
• How to Use Assistant — Manage filters and block elements in your browser

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used AdGuard VPN for over a year and tested every feature covered here. This how to use AdGuard VPN tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

AdGuard VPN is one of the most powerful privacy and ad-blocking suites available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

AdGuard VPN Tutorial

This complete AdGuard VPN tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

AdGuard VPN

Protect your privacy with encrypted VPN tunnels and DNS-level ad blocking. AdGuard VPN covers 80+ server locations in 64 countries with a zero-logging policy. Try it free with 3 GB monthly data — no credit card required.

TRY ADGUARD VPN NOW →

READ FULL REVIEW →

Getting Started with AdGuard VPN

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to AdGuard VPN’s website at adguard-vpn.com.

Click “Get Started” or “Try Free.”

Enter your email and create a password.

✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for a confirmation email.

Step 2: Download or Access the App

AdGuard VPN is available on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and as a browser extension.

Download the app for your platform from the AdGuard website.

Log in with your new account.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with server locations.

Step 3: Complete Initial Setup

Choose your nearest server location from the list.

Toggle the VPN on to test your connection.

Grant any system permissions the app requests.

How to Use AdGuard VPN Ad Blocker

Ad Blocker lets you remove ads, pop-ups, and trackers from websites and apps.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Ad Blocker in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open AdGuard Ad Blocker Settings

Launch the AdGuard app on your device.

Navigate to the “Ad Blocker” or “Filters” section.

Step 2: Enable Your Filter Lists

Turn on the base filter and language-specific filters.

Add annoyance filters to block cookie notices and pop-ups.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see green toggles next to your enabled filters.

Step 3: Browse Ad-Free

Open any website to confirm ads are blocked.

Check the AdGuard icon for a count of blocked elements.

How to Use AdGuard VPN DNS

AdGuard DNS lets you filter traffic at the DNS level to block malicious domains before they load.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch DNS in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open DNS Settings

Go to AdGuard VPN settings and find the “DNS” section.

You’ll see a list of available DNS servers.

Step 2: Select Your DNS Server

Choose “AdGuard DNS” for ad blocking and tracker filtering.

Pick “AdGuard DNS Family” to also block adult content.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: Your selected DNS server should show as active.

Step 3: Test Your DNS Protection

Visit a website with ads to confirm DNS-level blocking works.

Check that malicious domains are blocked before loading.

How to Use AdGuard VPN VPN Connection

VPN Connection lets you encrypt your internet traffic and hide your real IP address.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch VPN Connection in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the VPN Tab

Launch AdGuard VPN and go to the main screen.

You’ll see a list of server locations sorted by distance.

Step 2: Choose a Server Location

Pick the nearest server for the fastest speeds.

Choose a server in another country to access geo-blocked content.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a green “Connected” status with your new IP.

Step 3: Enable the Kill Switch

Go to Settings and turn on the Kill Switch toggle.

This blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops.

How to Use AdGuard VPN Temp Mail

Temp Mail lets you create disposable email addresses for spam-free signups.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Temp Mail in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Temp Mail

Go to mail.adguard.com or open Temp Mail in the AdGuard app.

Log in with your AdGuard account.

Step 2: Generate a Temporary Address

Click “Create New Address” to get a disposable email.

Copy the address and use it for any signup or form.

✓ Checkpoint: Your temporary address should appear in the Temp Mail inbox.

Step 3: Check Your Temporary Inbox

Return to Temp Mail to read any emails received.

Delete the address when you no longer need it.

How to Use AdGuard VPN Assistant

Assistant lets you manage filters and block page elements directly in your browser.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Assistant in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Install the Browser Extension

Go to your browser’s extension store (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Opera).

Search for “AdGuard Assistant” and click “Add to Browser.”

Step 2: Block Specific Page Elements

Click the AdGuard icon in your browser toolbar.

Select “Block element” and click on the ad or banner you want removed.

✓ Checkpoint: The selected element should disappear from the page.

Step 3: Manage Your Custom Rules

Open the Assistant panel to review your blocked elements.

Edit or remove rules from the custom filter list.

AdGuard VPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing AdGuard VPN for over a year, here are my best tips.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• Split Tunneling: Go to Settings → Apps to choose which apps route through the VPN and which bypass it.
• Exclusion Modes: Switch between General mode (VPN everywhere except exclusions) and Selective mode (VPN only on listed sites).
• SOCKS5 Proxy: Enable SOCKS5 in Windows settings for torrent clients that need manual proxy setup.

AdGuard VPN Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Using the Free Plan for Streaming

Mistake #2: Leaving Kill Switch Disabled

Mistake #3: Using Non-Filtering DNS

AdGuard VPN Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Connection Keeps Dropping

Cause: Unstable Wi-Fi or firewall interference on your network.

Fix: Switch to a different server location and disable any conflicting firewall rules. Try the IKEv2 protocol if the default protocol fails.

Problem: Slow Speeds While Connected

Cause: Connected to a distant or overloaded server.

Fix: Choose a server closer to your location. Check the ping value next to each server name before connecting.

Problem: Streaming Service Blocked While Using VPN

Cause: The streaming platform detected and blocked the VPN server IP.

Fix: Switch to a different server in the same country. Clear your browser cookies and try again.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact AdGuard VPN support at support@adguard-vpn.com.

What is AdGuard VPN?

AdGuard VPN is a privacy and security suite that encrypts your internet traffic, hides your IP address, and blocks ads at the DNS level.

Think of it like a private tunnel for your internet that also comes with a built-in bouncer for ads and trackers.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Ad Blocker: Removes ads, pop-ups, and trackers from websites and apps
• DNS: Filters traffic at the DNS level to block malicious domains before they load
• VPN Connection: Encrypts your connection with 256-bit encryption and hides your real IP
• Temp Mail: Creates disposable email addresses for spam-free signups
• Assistant: Browser-based tool for managing filters and blocking page elements

For a full review, see our AdGuard VPN review.

AdGuard VPN Pricing

Here’s what AdGuard VPN costs in 2026:

Free trial: Yes — 3 GB per month, 10 server locations, 2 device connections.

Money-back guarantee: 30-day refund on 1-year and 2-year plans.

💰 Best Value: 2 Years plan — saves over 80% compared to monthly billing with full access to all features.

AdGuard VPN vs Alternatives

How does AdGuard VPN compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: NordVPN — 6,000+ servers in 111 countries with advanced threat protection
• Best budget: Surfshark — Unlimited devices at just $1.99/month
• Best for beginners: AdGuard VPN — Simple interface with built-in ad blocking
• Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based with audited no-logs policy

🎯 AdGuard VPN Alternatives

Looking for AdGuard VPN alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 NordVPN: Industry leader with 6,000+ servers in 111 countries and advanced threat protection built in.
• 💰 ExpressVPN: Premium VPN with lightning-fast speeds, top-tier encryption, and works with every streaming service.
• 🎨 PureVPN: Affordable VPN with dedicated IPs, DNS leak protection, and a solid Chrome extension.
• ⚡ Surfshark: Unlimited device connections with CleanWeb ad blocker and MultiHop for extra security.
• 🔒 ProtonVPN: Swiss privacy laws protect your data with a free tier and audited no-logs policy.
• 🧠 PrivadoVPN: Free plan with 10 GB monthly data and zero-log policy based in Switzerland.
• 👶 Virtual Shield: All-in-one security suite with antivirus, identity protection, and VPN in one package.
• 🏢 StrongVPN: Reliable WireGuard protocol support with simple apps and solid unblocking ability.
• 🔧 AuraVPN: Family-focused security suite that bundles VPN, identity theft protection, and parental controls.
• 🌟 CyberGhost: Streaming-focused VPN with dedicated servers for Netflix, Disney+, and 45-day money-back guarantee.
• ⭐ McAfee VPN: Bundled with McAfee antivirus for users who want all-in-one device protection.
• 🎯 Private Internet Access: Open-source VPN apps with a massive server network spanning 91 countries.
• 💼 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN powered by a peer-to-peer network for censorship-resistant browsing.
• 📊 SafeShell VPN: Lightweight VPN with multi-device support and fast server connections.
• 🔥 Oyster VPN: Budget-friendly VPN with strong encryption and a simple interface for casual users.

⚔️ AdGuard VPN Compared

Here’s how AdGuard VPN stacks up against each competitor:

• AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN has far more servers and faster speeds. AdGuard wins on built-in DNS ad blocking and lower price.
• AdGuard VPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has faster global speeds and 24/7 live chat. AdGuard is cheaper with built-in DNS filtering.
• AdGuard VPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN offers dedicated IPs and more protocols. AdGuard has a cleaner interface and ad blocker combo.
• AdGuard VPN vs Surfshark: Surfshark allows unlimited devices. AdGuard limits to 10 but includes DNS-level ad blocking.
• AdGuard VPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has an audited no-logs policy and Secure Core servers. AdGuard has better ad blocking tools.
• AdGuard VPN vs PrivadoVPN: Both offer free tiers. AdGuard has 3 GB free data while PrivadoVPN gives 10 GB monthly.
• AdGuard VPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield bundles antivirus and identity protection. AdGuard is lighter and more VPN-focused.
• AdGuard VPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN has WireGuard protocol. AdGuard uses its own proprietary protocol with QUIC support.
• AdGuard VPN vs AuraVPN: Aura bundles identity theft protection. AdGuard is cheaper and more focused on ad blocking plus VPN.
• AdGuard VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has more servers and a 45-day refund window. AdGuard has built-in DNS filtering.
• AdGuard VPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee bundles antivirus protection. AdGuard is standalone with better ad blocking at the DNS level.
• AdGuard VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA has open-source apps and more servers. AdGuard has a simpler setup and DNS ad blocking.
• AdGuard VPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium uses decentralized P2P networking. AdGuard has traditional servers with faster, more stable speeds.
• AdGuard VPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell is newer with fewer features. AdGuard has a more established reputation and ad blocking tools.
• AdGuard VPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster is budget-friendly but less known. AdGuard has DNS filtering and a proven ad blocking product suite.

Start Using AdGuard VPN Now

You learned how to use every major AdGuard VPN feature:

• ✅ Ad Blocker
• ✅ DNS
• ✅ VPN Connection
• ✅ Temp Mail
• ✅ Assistant

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Ad Blocker.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AdGuard VPN trustworthy?

Yes, AdGuard VPN is operated by AdGuard Software Limited, a company with over a decade of experience in privacy tools. They maintain a strict no-logs policy and are based in Cyprus, outside the Eyes alliance. Your browsing data is not collected or shared.

Is the AdGuard VPN free?

AdGuard VPN offers a free plan with 3 GB of monthly data, access to 10 server locations, and 2 simultaneous device connections. For unlimited data and access to all 80+ locations, you’ll need a paid plan starting at $2.40/month.

What is the downside of AdGuard?

AdGuard VPN uses only its proprietary protocol, which has not been independently audited. The server network is smaller than competitors like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. It also lacks 24/7 live chat support and RAM-only servers.

Is AdGuard VPN better than NordVPN?

NordVPN is better for speed, server count, and streaming. AdGuard VPN is better if you want built-in DNS-level ad blocking combined with VPN protection. NordVPN is the stronger overall VPN, but AdGuard wins on ad blocking.

Is it safe to use AdGuard VPN?

Yes, AdGuard VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption and passed DNS leak, WebRTC leak, and kill switch tests. It does not log your IP address, browsing history, or connection timestamps. You can request deletion of your data at any time.

How do I install AdGuard VPN?

Download AdGuard VPN from adguard-vpn.com for Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS. You can also install the browser extension from Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Opera web stores. Create an account, log in, and connect to any server.

Does AdGuard VPN block ads?

AdGuard VPN includes DNS-level ad blocking when you select AdGuard DNS as your DNS server. For full ad blocking across websites and apps, you need the separate AdGuard Ad Blocker product. Both tools work together when installed on the same device.

How much does AdGuard VPN cost?

AdGuard VPN costs $11.99/month on the monthly plan, $3.99/month on the annual plan, and $2.40/month on the 2-year plan. All paid plans include unlimited data, 10 simultaneous connections, and access to 80+ server locations.

Who owns AdGuard VPN?

AdGuard VPN is owned by AdGuard Software Limited, a Cyprus-based company founded in 2009. They are best known for creating the AdGuard Ad Blocker, which has over 30 million users. The company operates outside the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes surveillance alliances.

Does AdGuard VPN keep logs?

AdGuard VPN does not log your IP address, browsing history, or connection timestamps. They collect your email and payment details for account management. Usage data like traffic volume is tracked only for free plan limits. You can request full data deletion at any time.