10 Best VPNs with Ad Blocker in 2025: Secure, Fast & Ad-Free Browsing
In 2025, the demand for the 10 best VPNs with ad blocker features is growing rapidly as users seek an ad-free and secure online experience. VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) are essential tools that encrypt your internet connection and mask your IP address to protect your privacy online. Today, VPNs with built-in ad blockers and malware protection are more important than ever. These advanced services do more than just safeguard your data — they block annoying ads, trackers, and malware at the network level, providing faster, cleaner, and safer browsing.
Unlike standard VPNs, which only protect your connection, the best VPN with ad blocker capabilities offer comprehensive ad-blocking and malware defense. An ad-free VPN 2025 not only encrypts but also filters harmful and intrusive content before it reaches your device, ensuring enhanced security and speed. In this article, we’ll explore why such integrated VPNs are essential, what to look for when choosing one, and review the 10 best VPNs with ad blocker in 2025 that will suit a variety of needs.
Why You Need a VPN with Ad Blocker and Malware Protection
Intrusive ads have become a major source of frustration for online users. These ads are unwanted pop-ups, banners, or video ads that disrupt your browsing experience. But more than just annoyance, many ads contain trackers—small scripts or cookies that silently monitor your online behavior. These trackers collect personal data across websites, creating detailed profiles that threaten your privacy.
At the same time, malware threats are on the rise. These include phishing attacks designed to steal your information, malicious downloads that hijack your device, harmful websites hosting ransomware, and other sophisticated cyber threats. These dangers continue to grow in sophistication and volume every year.
Traditional VPNs focus solely on creating an encrypted tunnel for your data, hiding your IP address from prying eyes. However, they typically don't block ads, trackers, or malware. This leaves users vulnerable to privacy invasion and security risks, despite the encrypted connection.
A VPN with malware protection and integrated ad blocker changes the game. It combines privacy encryption with active filtering to:
- Block bulky ads and trackers at the network level, speeding up page loads and reducing bandwidth use.
- Prevent access to malicious websites and domains, stopping malware before it can infect your device.
- Enhance privacy by stopping trackers from collecting your data silently.
This blend creates a much safer, faster, and more private browsing experience. In 2025, finding the right VPN that blocks ads and malware is essential. Not every VPN on the market offers these advanced features, which makes choosing the best VPN with ad blocker even more critical.
Criteria for Choosing the Best VPN with Ad Blocker
Selecting the right VPN with ad blocking and malware protection requires evaluating specific features. Here are the key criteria to keep in mind when searching for the best VPN with ad blocker in 2025:
1. Ad and Tracker Blocking Effectiveness
A top ad blocker VPN filters ads and trackers at the DNS or network level, not just inside browsers. This means protection covers all apps on your device, not just web browsers. Look for VPNs using DNS filtering and real-time threat intelligence to block intrusive ads and common tracking scripts comprehensively.
2. Malware Protection Quality
Effective malware protection means the VPN can detect and block access to malicious websites before they load. Some VPNs also scan files or downloads in real time to stop malware infections. Ensure the VPN uses regularly updated threat databases to prevent attacks from phishing, ransomware, and other cyber threats.
3. VPN Protocols and Encryption
Security and speed depend on effective VPN protocols and data encryption. Modern VPNs use protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec, combined with strong encryption such as AES-256, which ensures a secure and fast connection while running ad blocker and malware protection.
4. Connection Speed & Performance
Ad blocker and malware filters can sometimes slow down internet speed. The best VPNs optimize their infrastructure to maintain high-speed connections with minimal speed loss, ensuring your browsing and streaming remain fast even with ad blockers active.
5. User-Friendliness & Device Compatibility
A good VPN with ad blocker supports multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and routers. Look for easy installation, intuitive interfaces, and straightforward ad blocker settings that both beginners and advanced users can manage easily.
Check also device-specific guides like 10 Best VPNs for Windows in 2025, 10 Best VPNs for macOS in 2025, 10 Best VPNs for Android in 2025, and 10 Best VPNs for iOS in 2025.
6. Pricing, Free Trials & Money-Back Guarantees
Transparent pricing models with free trials or demo periods allow testing the service before committing. A clear money-back guarantee ensures risk-free trials. This is important, as VPNs with ad blockers and malware protection vary widely in features and usability. For budget-friendly options, see our 10 Best Cheap VPNs in 2025.
7. Customer Support and Regular Updates
Good customer support that is quick and knowledgeable helps solve issues promptly. Regular updates to the VPN app and its threat detection databases ensure your ad blocker and malware defenses remain effective against new risks.
Quick Comparison of the 10 Best VPNs with Ad Blocker in 2025
Here’s a snapshot of the 10 best VPNs with ad blocker and malware protection features available in 2025, highlighting their strengths and best use cases:
VPN Name | Why Suitable | Best For |
---|---|---|
NordVPN | Strong ad blocking and malware protection | Best Overall |
Surfshark | Lightweight, fast with reliable ad blocker | Best Budget Option |
CyberGhost | Extensive malware protection | Security Focused Users |
ExpressVPN | Large server network and ad blocker | Streaming & Gaming |
Proton VPN | Easy interface with built-in ad blocker | Beginners |
Private Internet Access | Advanced tracker and ad blocker | Advanced Privacy |
AdGuard VPN | Industry-leading ad blocking technology | Ad-Blocking Purists |
Hotspot Shield | Fastest speeds combined with ad blocker | Heavy Browsing |
Windscribe | Multi-platform support + malware defense | Multi-device Use |
VyprVPN | Customizable ad blocker settings | Power Users |
Detailed Product Reviews for Each VPN
1. NordVPN
NordVPN stands out with its Threat Protection feature, which combines DNS-level ad and tracker blocking with strong malware defenses at the network level. It blocks harmful ads before they load, scans downloads in real time, and prevents access to dangerous websites, ensuring top-tier privacy and security.
All Features:
- Ad blocker and tracker blocking: DNS-level filters stop intrusive ads and tracking scripts.
- Malware protection: Blocks access to malicious domains, scans downloads for threats.
- VPN protocols: OpenVPN, NordLynx (WireGuard), IKEv2/IPSec.
- Server network: 6,400+ servers in 111 countries.
- Device compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, smart TVs, browser plugins.
- Additional security: Kill switch, split tunneling, double VPN, dark web monitoring.
Pricing:
- Starts at $3.39/month (2-year plans)
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
NordVPN Pros:
- Comprehensive and proactive ad/malware blocking.
- Minimal impact on speed, excellent for streaming and torrenting.
- User-friendly for beginners and advanced users.
NordVPN Cons:
- Some advanced features only available on premium plans.
- Occasional “clean” ads might bypass blocking.
NordVPN is arguably the best VPN with ad blocker in 2025, delivering a perfect balance of privacy, performance, and ease of use with a trusted malware protection layer. See our detailed NordVPN Review 2025.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark offers lightweight and efficient CleanWeb™ ad blocker combined with malware blocking on all devices. The integration operates at the network level, preventing ads and trackers across every app, enhancing privacy without slowing down connections.
All Features:
- Ad blocker and tracker protection: DNS-level filtering with real-time threat updates.
- Malware protection: Blocks harmful websites, phishing attempts, and malicious downloads.
- VPN protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2.
- Server network: 3,200+ servers in 95 countries.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers.
- Extras: Kill switch, MultiHop, CleanWeb ad blocker settings.
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.19/month (2-year plans)
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
Surfshark Pros:
- Affordable with strong ad blocking and malware defense.
- Maintains fast connection speeds.
- Unlimited simultaneous device support.
Surfshark Cons:
- Smaller server network compared to top-tier VPNs.
- Some features require specific devices/apps.
Surfshark is an excellent VPN that blocks ads efficiently, ideal for budget-conscious users wanting a fast, ad-free, and secure online experience.
3. CyberGhost
CyberGhost focuses heavily on security and privacy with a built-in ad and malware blocker called CyberGhost’s Content Blocker. It filters trackers and malware on the network level, ideal for users prioritizing comprehensive online protection.
All Features:
- Network-level ad and tracker protections.
- Blocks phishing sites and domains hosting malware.
- Protocols supported: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2.
- 9,100+ servers in 91 countries.
- Platforms supported: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, routers.
- Extra: Kill switch, no-logs policy.
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.19/month (2-year plans)
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
CyberGhost Pros:
- Excellent malware and ad blocking capabilities.
- Wide server coverage for global use.
- Long money-back trial period.
CyberGhost Cons:
- Slightly larger app size may impact older devices.
- Advanced settings can be intimidating for novices.
CyberGhost is suited for those wanting strong malware protection combined with effective ad blocking in a privacy-conscious VPN. Read more in our CyberGhost VPN Review 2025.
4. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN offers an integrated ad blocker feature through DNS filtering, providing network-wide blocking for intrusive ads and trackers. Its huge global server presence ensures optimal speeds and reliability for streaming and gaming.
All Features:
- DNS-based ad and tracker blocking.
- Malware site blocking capability.
- VPN protocols: Lightway (ExpressVPN’s own), OpenVPN, IKEv2.
- Servers in 94 countries with 3,000+ locations.
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, and smart TVs.
- Additional: Kill switch, split tunneling.
Pricing:
- Starts at $4.99/month (2-year plans)
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN Pros:
- Fastest speeds with reliable ad blocking.
- Excellent for streaming geo-blocked content.
- User-friendly apps.
ExpressVPN Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Malware protection less extensive than other providers.
ExpressVPN suits users looking for a fast VPN that blocks ads effectively and excels in streaming and gaming performance. For a complete review check ExpressVPN Review 2025.
5. Proton VPN
Proton VPN integrates NetShield, which automatically blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. It is built for privacy and simplicity, perfect for beginners wanting an ad-free VPN 2025 experience with malware protection.
All Features:
- DNS-level ad and tracker blocking with NetShield.
- Blocks access to malicious domains.
- Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2.
- Servers in 122 countries.
- Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
- Extras: Two-factor authentication, kill switch.
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.99/month (2-year plans)
- 30-day money-back period.
Proton VPN Pros:
- Straightforward interface.
- Strong privacy and malware defenses.
- Excellent choice for VPN beginners.
Proton VPN Cons:
- Ad blocker less comprehensive than top-tier options.
- Limited advanced customization features.
Proton VPN is a reliable best VPN with ad blocker for users seeking simplicity paired with robust privacy and security. See also 10 Best VPNs for Beginners in 2025.
6. Private Internet Access (PIA)
PIA offers advanced ad and tracker blocking at the DNS level integrated in its VPN client. It focuses on an open-source approach to privacy combined with robust malware filtering.
All Features:
- DNS and network level ad/tracker blocker.
- Malware domain blocking.
- Protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2.
- 29,000+ servers in 78 countries.
- Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers.
- Additional: Kill switch, split tunneling, MACE ad blocking.
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.03/month (3-year plans)
- 30-day money-back.
Private Internet Access Pros:
- Strong blocking features with open-source transparency.
- Large server network.
- Highly customizable.
Private Internet Access Cons:
- Interface can be technical for novices.
- Slight speed drops on some servers.
Private Internet Access fits advanced users looking for powerful tracker and ad blocking with strong VPN security. More details in Private Internet Access Review 2025.
7. AdGuard VPN
AdGuard VPN is a privacy-focused VPN created by the developers of the popular AdGuard ad blocker. It seamlessly combines VPN encryption with industry-leading ad and tracker blocking at the DNS and network levels. With its advanced filtering technology, AdGuard VPN offers one of the most robust ad-free browsing experiences available in 2025.
All Features:
- Industry-best DNS-level ad, tracker, and malware domain blocking.
- Uses AdGuard’s vast filter lists for blocking intrusive and malicious content.
- VPN protocols: Proprietary AdGuard Protocol and support for others.
- Servers in 60+ locations worldwide.
- Works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, browser extensions.
- Additional: Kill switch, stealth mode, and split tunneling.
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.99/month (2-year plans)
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
AdGuard VPN Pros:
- Best-in-class ad and tracker blocking technology.
- Clean, minimalist interface ideal for privacy-first users.
- Designed to work alongside the standalone AdGuard app for even more control.
AdGuard VPN Cons:
- Smaller server network than larger providers.
- No router-level support (as of mid-2025).
Ad-Blocking Purists and Privacy Enthusiasts who want maximum control over what content loads.
8. Hotspot Shield
Known for blazing fast speeds, Hotspot Shield includes a built-in ad blocker in its VPN that filters out ads and blocks malware domains for a seamless browsing experience.
All Features:
- DNS-level ad and malware blocking.
- Proprietary Catapult Hydra VPN protocol plus WireGuard.
- 1,800+ servers in 80 countries.
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android.
- Features: Kill switch, malware protection.
Pricing:
- Premium plans from $7.99/month
- 45-day money-back guarantee.
Hotspot Shield Pros:
- Fastest speeds among ad-blocking VPNs.
- Solid malware protection.
- Simple user interface.
Hotspot Shield Cons:
- Pricier than budget options.
- Limited Linux support.
Hotspot Shield is best for heavy browsing users who need speed plus robust ad and malware blocking.
9. Windscribe
Windscribe provides a built-in ad blocker (Robust Web Blocker) and malware filtering compatible across major platforms. It emphasizes multi-device support with real-time malware defense.
All Features:
- DNS and network level ad/tracker blocking.
- Malware domain filtering.
- Supports OpenVPN, WireGuard protocols.
- 500+ servers in 63 countries.
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, browser extensions.
- Additional: Split tunneling, kill switch.
Pricing:
- Starts at $5.75/month (1-year plans)
- Free tier available with limited bandwidth.
- 3-day money-back for paid plans.
Windscribe Pros:
- Multi-platform compatibility.
- Good malware filtering.
- Generous free plan.
Windscribe Cons:
- Smaller server base.
- Free version has limited features.
Windscribe is a versatile vpn that blocks ads well for multi-device users looking for malware protection plus a free version.
10. VyprVPN
VyprVPN features a customizable ad blocker called Chameleon that handles ads, trackers, and malware domains across the network. It targets power users needing fine control over ad blocking rules.
All Features:
- Customizable DNS-level ad and tracker blocker.
- Malware filtering with safe browsing features.
- VPN protocols: WireGuard, OpenVPN, Chameleon.
- Servers in 70+ countries.
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, routers.
- Extras: Kill switch, split tunneling, multi-hop.
Pricing:
- Starts at $3/month (2-year plans)
- 30-day money-back.
VyprVPN Pros:
- Powerful ad blocker customization.
- Good malware protection.
- Works well with restrictive networks.
VyprVPN Cons:
- Interface slightly complex for new users.
- Pricier than budget VPNs.
VyprVPN appeals to power users and privacy enthusiasts needing a highly configurable VPN with malware protection and ad blocking.
Tips for Using a VPN with Ad Blocker Effectively
To get the most from your best VPN with ad blocker, follow these practical tips:
- Enable the ad blocker in your VPN app: Most VPNs have an ad-block toggle or “Threat Protection” feature inside privacy or security settings. Simply turn it on to activate network-wide filtering.
- Manage whitelists: If certain sites break or content fails to load, add those websites to the VPN’s ad blocker whitelist to allow ads/tracking scripts as needed.
- Avoid overlapping filters: Combining VPN ad blockers with browser extensions like uBlock Origin can cause issues. Use one primary ad blocker at a time to prevent conflicts.
- Keep your VPN app updated: Regular updates bring new threat definitions and ad lists, keeping your protection effective against evolving risks.
- Use VPN kill switches: This feature protects your data if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. Always enable it for total privacy. See also 10 Best VPNs With Kill Switch in 2025.
- Practice safe browsing habits: VPNs enhance security but don’t replace antivirus/anti-malware apps or vigilance. Avoid suspicious websites and downloads.
- Troubleshoot issues promptly: If sites act strangely, try disabling the ad blocker temporarily or reconnecting the VPN to refresh protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an ad blocker VPN and how does it differ from standalone ad blockers?
An ad blocker VPN filters ads, trackers, and malware at the network level, protecting every app and browser on your device automatically. Traditional standalone ad blockers work only within a particular browser and don’t protect other apps or system-level traffic.
Does a VPN with malware protection eliminate the need for antivirus software?
No. While vpn with malware protection blocks many network-borne threats and malicious sites, antivirus software performs deeper scanning of files and apps on your device. For full security, use both.
Will using a VPN with ad blocking slow down my internet speed?
Premium VPNs with optimized infrastructure minimize performance impacts. Typically, you will experience little to no speed loss, and blocking ads can even speed up browsing by reducing page load times. See related info in our 10 Best VPNs for Gaming in 2025.
Can ad blockers interfere with website functionality?
Yes. Some sites rely on ads and trackers for content delivery. Ad blocking can sometimes break videos, logins, or paywalls. Good VPNs allow whitelisting to allow ad scripts on trusted sites.
Are all VPNs with ad blockers equally effective in 2025?
No. Effectiveness depends on the provider’s threat intelligence and filtering technology. The VPN’s ability to update ad and malware lists regularly also impacts performance.
How do I test if my VPN’s ad blocker is working well?
Try visiting popular ad-heavy sites or use free online tools like AdBlock Tester to measure ad presence and blocking efficiency.
Is it safe to use free VPNs with ad blocker features?
Free VPNs often have limited security, slower speeds, and questionable privacy practices. They may log your activity or show ads themselves. It’s safer to invest in a premium, audited VPN that blocks ads and malware. Learn more in 10 Best Free VPNs in 2025.
Conclusion
In 2025, choosing from the 10 best VPNs with ad blocker capability is vital to ensure a secure, private, and ad-free online experience. These VPNs combine network-level ad blocking, malware protection, and strong encryption to shield you from trackers, malicious sites, and intrusive ads while enhancing browsing speed.
Whether your priority is streaming, privacy, budgeting, or ease of use, this curated list has options tailored to your needs. Remember, a truly ad-free VPN 2025 also requires regular updates and responsible usage to maintain top protection.
Make an informed choice today and enjoy a faster, safer, and cleaner internet with the best VPNs that block ads and malware in 2025. Stay secure, stay private.