Securing an iPad for Kid-Friendly Use – Block Inappropriate Adverts and Websites

NONE of the built in Apple methods will stop inappropriate adverts within games and apps. The advert providers can show you want they want, however disturbing that may be (yes you can report an advert as inappropriate, but that won’t stop the next one).

The only free and 95% reliable method I have found of doing this is setting up the device to use the free AdGuard DNS service. This routes all requests for web pages (including adverts) via a third party, filtering out any unwanted requests. It can protect the device against ads, trackers, adult content by just not showing them, and also enforce Safe Search and Safe mode where possible.

To install AdGuard DNS protection

• Visit this web page on the device to protect

https://adguard-dns.io/en/public-dns.html

• DO NOT Install the app, instead click Method 2

• Select iOS

• Select Family Protection Server

• Tap Download Configuration Profile

• Return to home screen and open the Settings app on your device.

• Tap “Profile Downloaded”.

• Tap Install and then follow the onscreen instructions.

Once this is complete, all device traffic will be routed via their service and the majority of adverts in games, apps and websites will be blocked out. This might cause some small annoyances such as “I can’t watch and advert by choice to speed up a game development”, but overall it makes for a much more child friendly environment.

Please note, this routes ALL requests via AdGuards service. Whilst a trusted company, I would not recommend this on devices where you complete financial work, such as online banking etc.