Affordable DNS filtering for schools and families
Quick answer
CleanBrowsing is a DNS-based filter that blocks adult, phishing, and malware domains by changing your DNS resolver. It works across every browser and app on the network, but it offers no app-level lock — anyone who knows where to look can clear the setting.
What CleanBrowsing does well
- Three filter tiers (Adult, Security, Family) let you choose the strictness level.
- Works at the DNS layer, so it covers every browser and app that makes a DNS lookup.
- Free tier for basic filtering — no account required.
- DNS-over-HTTPS and DNS-over-TLS supported for encrypted lookups.
Where CleanBrowsing leaves gaps
- No mobile app — users must manually change DNS settings in system preferences.
- No uninstall or DNS-change protection — the filter can be silently reversed.
- No per-device profiles — one filter level applies to the whole network.
- No ad or tracker blocking in the free tier.
- No Safe Search enforcement (Google, Bing, YouTube).
Feature-by-feature comparison
| Feature | Kahf Guard | CleanBrowsing |
|---|---|---|
| DNS-level blocking | ✓ | ✓ |
| App-level filtering | ✓ | ✗ |
| Uninstall protection | ✓ | ✗ |
| DNS-change lock | ✓ | ✗ |
| Safe search enforcement | ✓ | ✗ |
| Ad & tracker blocking | ✓ | ✗ |
| Per-device profiles | ✓ | ✗ |
| Router / whole-home coverage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free tier | ✓ | ✓ |
Our verdict
CleanBrowsing is a solid, no-cost DNS filter for network-level blocking. But it lacks the app-level protection, tamper resistance, and per-device control that a personal or family setup needs. If someone can clear a DNS setting, the protection breaks.
Block it at the source — and lock it
Free DNS-level filtering, app-level protection, and tamper lock in one app.
Get Kahf Guard freeFrequently asked questions
Is CleanBrowsing free?
Yes. The basic Adult, Security, and Family DNS filters are free. Paid plans add features like custom block lists and priority support.
Does CleanBrowsing work on mobile?
It works on mobile devices at the DNS level — you change the DNS setting on your phone. But there is no dedicated app, and the setting can be cleared by the user.
Can CleanBrowsing be bypassed?
Yes. Anyone who can access the device's network settings can clear the DNS resolver and bypass the filter. There is no lock to prevent this.