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

by Fahim Joharder | Last updated Feb 15, 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every AdGuard VPN feature:

Getting Started — Create account and basic setup
How to Use AdGuard Ad Blocker — Block ads across all your apps and browsers
How to Use AdGuard DNS — Filter traffic at the DNS level for extra protection
How to Use AdGuard VPN Connection — Encrypt your traffic and hide your IP
How to Use AdGuard Temp Mail — Create disposable email addresses instantly
How to Use AdGuard Assistant — Manage filtering right from 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 tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

AdGuard VPN is one of the most versatile privacy tools 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 a fast, lightweight VPN that also blocks ads and trackers. AdGuard VPN gives you access to 80+ server locations with 256-bit encryption. Try the free plan — no credit card required.

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READ FULL REVIEW →

Getting Started with AdGuard VPN

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

It takes about 3 minutes.

Watch this quick overview first:

AdGuard VPN Honest Review - Watch Before Using

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to adguard-vpn.com and click “Try Free.”

Enter your email address and create a strong password.

You can also sign up with your Apple or Google account.

✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for a confirmation email from AdGuard.

AdGuard VPN works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.

You can also install browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Edge.

Download the app for your device from the AdGuard website.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with a connect button.

Step 3: Complete Initial Setup

Grant VPN permissions when your device prompts you.

The app will ask to create a VPN profile on your device.

Tap “Allow” to finish the setup process.

✅ Done: You’re ready to use any feature below.

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How to Use AdGuard VPN Ad Blocker

AdGuard Ad Blocker lets you remove ads, pop-ups, and trackers from every app and browser on your device.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See the Ad Blocker in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Ad Blocker Settings

Launch AdGuard and navigate to the “Ad Blocker” section.

You’ll see toggle switches for different filter lists.

Step 2: Enable Your Preferred Filters

Turn on the “AdGuard Base” filter for general ad blocking.

Enable “Tracking Protection” to block analytics scripts.

Add the “Annoyances” filter to remove cookie banners and pop-ups.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see green toggles next to each active filter.

Step 3: Test on a Website

Open any news website in your browser.

Ads and banners should be gone completely.

Check the AdGuard icon for a count of blocked elements.

✅ Result: Ads, trackers, and pop-ups are now blocked across your device.

💡 Pro Tip: Add custom filter lists for region-specific ad blocking. Go to Settings → Filters → Add Custom Filter and paste the URL.

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How to Use AdGuard VPN DNS

AdGuard DNS lets you filter traffic at the DNS level to block ads, trackers, and malicious websites before they even load.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See AdGuard 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 server options.

Step 2: Select Your DNS Server

Choose “AdGuard DNS” for built-in ad blocking at the DNS level.

Select “AdGuard DNS Family” if you want adult content filtering too.

Pick “Non-filtering” if you only want DNS speed without blocking.

You can also add custom DNS addresses like Cloudflare or Google.

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

Step 3: Test Your DNS Configuration

Visit a website known for heavy advertising.

Ads should be blocked even before the page finishes loading.

Run a DNS leak test at dnsleaktest.com to verify.

✅ Result: Your DNS queries are now filtered through AdGuard’s secure servers.

💡 Pro Tip: Use AdGuard DNS even without the VPN turned on. It works as a standalone DNS filter and blocks malicious domains network-wide.

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How to Use AdGuard VPN Connection

AdGuard VPN Connection lets you encrypt all your internet traffic and hide your real IP address from anyone watching.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See the VPN connection in action:

Adguard VPN Review - Brutally Honest Review!

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Choose a Server Location

Open AdGuard VPN and tap the “Locations” tab.

Browse through 80+ server locations across 60+ countries.

Pick the server closest to you for the fastest speeds.

Save your favorite locations for quick access later.

Step 2: Connect to the VPN

Tap the large “Connect” button on the main screen.

Wait 2-3 seconds for the secure tunnel to establish.

The button turns green when you’re connected.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a VPN icon in your device status bar.

Step 3: Set Up Exclusions

Go to Settings → Exclusions to manage which sites bypass the VPN.

Use “General mode” to VPN everything except listed sites.

Use “Selective mode” to VPN only the sites you choose.

Add banking sites to exclusions so they don’t flag your account.

✅ Result: Your traffic is now encrypted and your IP address is hidden.

💡 Pro Tip: Enable the Kill Switch in settings. It cuts your internet if the VPN drops, so your real IP never leaks accidentally.

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How to Use AdGuard VPN Temp Mail

AdGuard Temp Mail lets you create disposable email addresses to protect your real inbox from spam and data breaches.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See Temp Mail in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Temp Mail

Visit AdGuard’s Temp Mail page or find it in the app.

A random temporary email address is created automatically.

Step 2: Copy and Use Your Temp Email

Click the copy button next to the generated email address.

Paste it on any website that requires email registration.

Use it for free trial signups, newsletters, or one-time downloads.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see your temporary email address copied to clipboard.

Step 3: Check Your Inbox

Go back to AdGuard Temp Mail to see incoming messages.

Emails arrive within seconds of being sent.

Click any confirmation links directly from the temp inbox.

✅ Result: You signed up without exposing your real email address.

💡 Pro Tip: Create a new temp email for every signup. This way, if one service gets breached, your other accounts stay safe.

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How to Use AdGuard VPN Assistant

AdGuard Assistant lets you manage ad filtering and page elements directly from your browser without opening the main app.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See the Assistant in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Access the Assistant

Click the AdGuard icon in your browser toolbar.

The Assistant panel opens as a small overlay on the page.

Step 2: Block Specific Elements

Click “Block Element” in the Assistant panel.

Hover over any annoying element on the page.

Click it to add a custom blocking rule instantly.

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

Step 3: Manage Page-Level Settings

Use the toggle to pause filtering on specific websites.

Report missed ads with the “Report Issue” button.

View total blocked elements and trackers for the current page.

✅ Result: You can now control ad blocking on a per-page basis directly from your browser.

💡 Pro Tip: Use the element blocker to remove paywalls, sticky headers, and annoying social media widgets on any website.

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AdGuard VPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts

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

Keyboard Shortcuts

Action	Shortcut
Connect/Disconnect VPN	Ctrl + Shift + V (Windows)
Open Location Picker	Ctrl + Shift + L (Windows)
Toggle Ad Blocker	Click browser extension icon
Quick Block Element	Right-click → “Block with AdGuard”

Hidden Features Most People Miss

Saved Locations: Star your favorite servers to find them in the “Saved” tab instead of scrolling through the full list every time.
Selective Mode for Apps: On Android, go to Settings → Apps to choose which apps route through the VPN and which use your regular connection.
Auto-Connect on Wi-Fi: Enable automatic VPN activation whenever you join an unsecured Wi-Fi network for instant protection.

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AdGuard VPN Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Using Default DNS Settings

❌ Wrong: Leaving the non-filtering DNS enabled and wondering why ads still appear.

✅ Right: Switch to AdGuard DNS in Settings → DNS to get DNS-level ad blocking alongside the VPN.

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Set Up Exclusions

❌ Wrong: Running the VPN on banking sites and getting locked out of your account.

✅ Right: Add your bank and financial websites to the exclusions list so they always use your real IP.

Mistake #3: Choosing Distant Servers for Everyday Use

❌ Wrong: Connecting to a server on the other side of the world and complaining about slow speeds.

✅ Right: Pick the nearest server for speed. Only use distant servers when you need a specific country’s IP address.

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AdGuard VPN Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Won’t Connect

Cause: Network restrictions, firewall settings, or an outdated app version may block the connection.

Fix: Update AdGuard VPN to the latest version. Try switching between the AdGuard VPN protocol and QUIC in Settings → Advanced. Restart the app and try again.

Problem: Slow Internet Speeds While Connected

Cause: You’re connected to a server that’s far away or overloaded with traffic.

Fix: Switch to a server closer to your location. Enable “Auto-select” protocol mode to let AdGuard pick the fastest option automatically.

Problem: Internet Drops After Computer Wakes from Sleep

Cause: The Kill Switch is enabled but the VPN hasn’t reconnected after sleep mode.

Fix: Manually reconnect the VPN after waking your computer. Update to the latest version where this issue has been improved.

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

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What is AdGuard VPN?

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

Think of it like a private tunnel for all your internet traffic that also comes with a built-in ad blocker.

It includes these key features:

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

For a full review, see our AdGuard VPN review.

Try AdGuard now

AdGuard VPN Pricing

Here’s what AdGuard VPN costs in 2026:

Plan	Price	Best For
1 Month	$11.99/month	Short-term use or testing the service
1 Year	$3.99/month	Regular users who want solid savings
2 Years	$2.40/month	Best value for long-term privacy protection

Free plan: 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 at $2.40/month — saves you 80% compared to the monthly price.

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AdGuard VPN vs Alternatives

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

Tool	Best For	Price	Rating
AdGuard VPN	Ad blocking + VPN combo	$2.40/mo	⭐ 4.2
NordVPN	Overall speed and security	$2.99/mo	⭐ 4.5
ExpressVPN	Premium streaming access	$2.44/mo	⭐ 4.6
PureVPN	Budget-friendly option	$2.15/mo	⭐ 4.0
Surfshark	Unlimited devices	$1.99/mo	⭐ 4.4
ProtonVPN	Privacy-first free tier	$0.00/mo	⭐ 4.5
CyberGhost	Streaming and gaming	$2.03/mo	⭐ 4.1
Private Internet Access	Torrenting and P2P	$2.03/mo	⭐ 4.0

Quick picks:

Best overall: NordVPN — Fastest speeds, largest server network, and top security.
Best budget: Surfshark — Unlimited devices starting at $1.99/month.
Best for beginners: AdGuard VPN — Simple interface with built-in ad blocking.
Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based with a solid free plan and 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: Simple, no-frills VPN with WireGuard support and reliable streaming access worldwide.
🔧 AuraVPN: Family-focused digital security with VPN, identity theft protection, and parental controls bundled.
🌟 CyberGhost: Dedicated streaming and gaming servers with 9,000+ servers in 100 countries.
⭐ McAfee VPN: Bundled with McAfee antivirus for all-in-one device protection and secure browsing.
🎯 Private Internet Access: Open-source VPN with SOCKS5 proxy support and customizable encryption settings.
💼 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN using residential IP addresses for maximum anonymity and censorship resistance.
📊 SafeShell VPN: Lightweight VPN focused on bypassing geo-restrictions with fast connection speeds.
🔥 Oyster VPN: Newer VPN with competitive pricing, solid encryption, and growing server network.

⚔️ AdGuard VPN Compared

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

AdGuard VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins on speed and server count. AdGuard wins on integrated 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’s free plan has 3 GB; 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 focuses on family security. AdGuard is better for solo users who want VPN plus ad blocking.
AdGuard VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has dedicated streaming servers. AdGuard has simpler setup and built-in ad blocking.
AdGuard VPN vs McAfee VPN: McAfee bundles antivirus. AdGuard is a standalone VPN with superior ad blocking features.
AdGuard VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA has open-source apps and more customization. AdGuard is simpler with integrated ad blocking.
AdGuard VPN vs Mysterium: Mysterium is decentralized with residential IPs. AdGuard has faster speeds and easier setup.
AdGuard VPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell focuses on geo-restriction bypassing. AdGuard offers broader privacy features and ad blocking.
AdGuard VPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster is newer with growing infrastructure. AdGuard is more established with proven ad blocking tech.

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Start Using AdGuard VPN Now

You learned how to use every major AdGuard VPN feature:

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

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with the VPN Connection.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Try AdGuard now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AdGuard VPN trustworthy?

Yes, AdGuard VPN is trustworthy. It’s run by AdGuard Software Limited, based in Cyprus under strict EU privacy laws (GDPR). The company uses a no-logs policy and has passed an independent security review on Google Play. Your browsing data is never stored or sold.

Is 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 full server access, you’ll need a paid plan starting at $2.40/month on the 2-year subscription.

Is AdGuard VPN safe to use?

AdGuard VPN uses 256-bit encryption, has a kill switch to prevent data leaks, and offers DNS leak protection. It runs a proprietary VPN protocol that disguises VPN traffic as normal HTTPS browsing. The company doesn’t log your activity or share data with third parties.

How do I install AdGuard VPN?

Download AdGuard VPN from adguard-vpn.com for Windows or Mac. For mobile, get it from the App Store or Google Play. Browser extensions are available for Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Edge. Create an account, log in, and you’re ready to connect.

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, you need the separate AdGuard Ad Blocker product. The VPN itself focuses on encrypting traffic, while the ad blocker handles removing ads and trackers.