Pi-hole is a DNS sinkhole that blocks ads, trackers, and known malicious domains for all devices on your network by responding to unwanted DNS queries locally. It provides visibility into DNS activity and lets you enforce filtering policies centrally without requiring browser extensions.

Key Features

DNS-based blocking using gravity lists (blocklists) and a local “sinkhole” response
Web admin dashboard for query logs, client activity, and real-time statistics
Per-client management (group-based allow/deny rules and client identification)
Custom allowlist/denylist, regex filtering, and local DNS records
Built-in DNS forwarding and caching; works with upstream resolvers or recursive DNS setups
Optional DHCP server for networks where router DHCP customization is limited
API and CLI tooling for automation and integration (telemetry, enable/disable, list management)

Use Cases

Block ads/trackers across phones, TVs, consoles, and IoT devices without installing plugins
Reduce exposure to malware domains and improve network visibility via DNS query logging
Centralize DNS policy for a home lab or small office with client- or group-specific rules

Limitations and Considerations

DNS-level blocking cannot remove first-party ads served from the same domains as content, and does not perform cosmetic page element hiding
Encrypted DNS (DoH/DoT) from clients can bypass filtering unless controlled at the network/device level

Pi-hole is a widely used DNS filtering solution suited to home and small-network environments, pairing straightforward installation with strong observability and control. It is commonly combined with upstream privacy-focused resolvers or recursive DNS for tighter policy and performance.