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Rethink DNS

Free, open-source DNS-over-HTTPS client and per-app firewall for Android that blocks ads and trackers.

Open sourceAd and tracker blockers
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About Rethink DNS

Rethink DNS is an Android app that combines three tools people usually need separately: an encrypted DNS client, a configurable blocker and a per-app firewall. It uses DNS over HTTPS or DNS over TLS, lets you choose from more than 190 blocklists (including those behind popular browser blockers), and can block internet access per app, on mobile data or Wi-Fi, or when the screen is off. Connection logs show what each app is contacting. It can also route apps through WireGuard, SOCKS5 or HTTP proxies, and the company offers an optional paid proxy network. The Android app is free and open source and works without root; Rethink's DNS resolver can also be used on other devices. It is excellent for privacy enthusiasts, though the number of settings can overwhelm casual users.

Best for: Android power users who want encrypted DNS, blocklists and an app firewall in one.

Pros and cons

What works

  • Blocklists, encrypted DNS and per-app firewall together
  • Free and open source, no root needed
  • Detailed per-app connection logs

Why people leave

  • Many settings to learn
  • Android only for the full app
  • Occupies Android's single VPN slot

Top Rethink DNS alternatives

See all 5
  1. 1Blokada logo
    Blokada

    Simpler open-source blocker for Android with cloud and VPN options.

    66.5
  2. 2TrackerControl logo
    TrackerControl

    Open-source Android blocker focused on showing which companies apps talk to.

    62.6
  3. 3AdAway logo
    AdAway

    Open-source hosts-based blocker with a simpler setup.

    59.6
  4. 4NextDNS logo
    NextDNS

    Hosted DNS filtering that also covers your other devices.

    57.2
  5. 5AdGuard logo
    AdGuard

    Paid Android app with HTTPS filtering and polished settings.

    55.3

Why people left Rethink DNS

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Rethink DNS: common questions

Is Rethink DNS free?

Yes. Rethink DNS is free, open-source software.

Is Rethink DNS open source?

Yes. The source code is on GitHub at celzero/rethink-app.

What platforms does Rethink DNS run on?

Rethink DNS is available for Android and Web.

What are the best alternatives to Rethink DNS?

The highest-ranked Rethink DNS alternatives right now are Blokada, TrackerControl and AdAway. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.

See all 5 Rethink DNS alternatives