AdGuard Home vs AdGuard DNS: Which One Should You Choose?

When it comes to protecting your online privacy, a reliable DNS service can be just as important as a reputable ad blocker. Two popular options that come to mind are AdGuard Home and AdGuard DNS. While both services share the same underlying technology, they offer distinct features, user experiences, and performance capabilities.

One of the key differences between AdGuard Home and AdGuard DNS is their infrastructure. AdGuard Home uses a local DNS resolver on your own network, while AdGuard DNS relies on remote servers to handle DNS requests. This means that AdGuard Home can be configured to use any DNS resolver you wish, giving you more control over your DNS traffic.

In terms of performance, PiHole still holds an upper hand compared to AdGuard, even though they share the same infrastructure. My own setup uses enterprise-grade servers located in data centers, designed to handle tens of millions of requests per day. In contrast, my AdGuard installation uses a small-form-factor PC located far from the data center, which can impact its performance. While both services use virtualization technology, the hardware and infrastructure differences are significant.

Installing either service is relatively straightforward. For PiHole, simply run the install script using `curl -sSL | bash`, and you'll be up and running in no time. AdGuard Home's installation process is also easy to follow.

In terms of reliability, PiHole has been a standout performer for me over the past four years. I've rarely experienced significant problems during maintenance, upgrades, or troubleshooting processes. In fact, my PiHole setup has served as both a DNS forwarder and sinkhole for my main DNS servers (BIND).

Ultimately, the choice between AdGuard Home and AdGuard DNS will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize local control and flexibility, AdGuard Home may be the better option. However, if you're looking for a more streamlined experience with a focus on performance, PiHole is worth considering.

In this article, we've compared AdGuard Home vs AdGuard DNS, highlighting their key differences in infrastructure, performance, and reliability. Whether you're looking for local control or a reliable remote service, one of these options may be the perfect fit for your online protection needs.

Adguard home vs adguard dns