How to Block Ads in Microsoft Edge on an iPhone

Advertising can be intrusive and disruptive to your browsing experience, especially on mobile devices where screens are smaller and distractions are more noticeable. If you’re using Microsoft Edge on your iPhone and want to enjoy a cleaner, faster, and less cluttered browsing experience, blocking ads is a great way to achieve that. While Edge doesn’t have built-in ad-blocking features like some browsers, you can still effectively block ads by using content blockers or configuring DNS-based solutions. This guide will walk you through the steps to block ads in Microsoft Edge on your iPhone, ensuring a smoother, more private browsing session.

What You’ll Need

• An iPhone with iOS 14 or later installed
• Microsoft Edge installed from the App Store
• A third-party ad blocker app or DNS service (optional but recommended)
• Basic familiarity with iPhone Settings

Step-by-Step

1. Install a third-party ad blocker or DNS-based blocker
   – Open the App Store and search for reputable ad blocker apps like AdGuard, 1Blocker, or Wipr.
   – Download and install your preferred ad blocker app.
   – Alternatively, you can configure a DNS-based ad blocker like NextDNS or AdGuard DNS by visiting their websites and following setup instructions.
2. Configure the ad blocker or DNS settings on your iPhone
   – For app-based blockers, open the app and follow the setup instructions, which may include enabling the content blocker in Safari settings (see step 4).
   – For DNS-based solutions, go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the info icon next to your connected network, then scroll to Configure DNS. Select Manual and add the DNS addresses provided by your chosen service.
3. Enable content blockers in Safari settings
   – Open Settings on your iPhone.
   – Scroll down to Safari and tap it.
   – Tap Extensions or Content Blockers (depending on iOS version).
   – Toggle on the ad blocker app you installed. This step is necessary because Edge relies on Safari’s content blockers for ad blocking.
4. Configure Edge to use your preferred DNS or proxy (if applicable)
   – Open Microsoft Edge app.
   – Tap the three-dot menu icon at the bottom center.
   – Select Settings > Privacy & Security.
   – Under Security, enable Use Secure DNS and select the DNS provider you configured earlier, if supported.
   – Note: Edge does not have native ad-blocking settings, so this step applies if you’re using DNS filtering.
5. Test your setup
   – Visit a website known for heavy advertising, such as news or entertainment sites.
   – Confirm that ads are minimized or blocked entirely.
   – If ads still appear, revisit your ad blocker app or DNS settings to troubleshoot.

Common Mistakes

• Not enabling the content blocker in Safari settings after installing the ad blocker app.
• Using an ad blocker incompatible with iOS or not updating it regularly.
• Configuring DNS settings incorrectly, leading to connectivity issues or no ad blocking.
• Assuming that enabling ad blockers in Safari automatically blocks ads in Edge; remember, Edge relies on Safari’s content blockers.
• Forgetting to restart the browser or device after making configuration changes.

Tips

• Use reputable ad blockers with good reviews to ensure they work effectively and do not compromise privacy.
• Keep your ad blocker app and iOS updated to benefit from the latest features and security patches.
• Combine DNS-based blocking with browser extensions for maximum ad removal.
• Regularly clear your browser cache and cookies to prevent residual ads from reappearing.
• Consider enabling privacy features like tracking prevention in Edge for a more comprehensive browsing privacy.

Troubleshooting

If ads are still appearing in Microsoft Edge after following the steps above, try these solutions:

• Verify content blocker activation: Go to Settings > Safari > Extensions and ensure your ad blocker is toggled on.
• Check DNS settings: Make sure you’ve correctly entered the DNS addresses and that your device is connected to the network where DNS changes are applied.
• Restart your device: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve configuration issues.
• Update all apps and iOS: Outdated software can cause compatibility issues. Ensure your system and apps are up to date.
• Try a different ad blocker: If one app isn’t effective, test another reputable blocker to see if it improves performance.
• Reset network settings: If DNS issues persist, resetting network settings under Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings may help, but note this will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will blocking ads affect website functionality?

Most websites will function normally, but some features that rely on ads or tracking scripts may be limited. Using a reputable ad blocker minimizes this risk.

2. Can I block all ads without affecting my browsing experience?

While many ads can be blocked, some websites may detect ad blockers and restrict access or request you disable them. Balancing ad blocking and site access may be necessary.

3. Is blocking ads in Edge on iPhone safe?

Yes, using trusted ad blockers and DNS services enhances privacy and security. Avoid unverified apps that could compromise your data.

4. Does blocking ads improve browsing speed?

Generally, yes. Removing ads reduces page load times and data usage, leading to faster and more efficient browsing on your iPhone.

5. Can I disable ad blocking on specific websites?

Yes. Most ad blocker apps allow you to whitelist certain sites, so ads will display normally on those pages.

6. Will blocking ads prevent tracking?

Blocking ads also reduces tracking by advertisers, improving your privacy during browsing sessions.

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