Blocking Ads in Overwolf Apps: A DNS Perspective

I recently came across a discussion regarding blocking advertisements within Overwolf and applications downloaded through it, such as Metaforge. This got me thinking about the challenges and potential solutions for achieving effective ad blocking in such environments, especially from a DNS perspective, which is our primary focus here at AdBlock for Mobile.

Overwolf, being a platform that allows developers to create in-game overlays and applications, presents a unique challenge for ad blocking. Traditional browser extensions or even system-wide VPN-based ad blockers might not always be effective due to the way Overwolf integrates with games and other applications. Let's delve into how we can approach this problem using DNS-based solutions.

Understanding the Challenge

Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand why blocking ads in Overwolf apps can be tricky:

• Integration Depth: Overwolf apps often integrate deeply with the operating system and the games they overlay. This means they might bypass typical ad-blocking methods that primarily target web browsers.
• Dynamic Ad Serving: Advertisements served within these applications can be dynamic, meaning the ad servers and delivery methods can change frequently, making it harder to create static blocklists.
• Application-Specific Code: Each Overwolf app is different, and the way they serve ads can vary significantly. A solution that works for one app might not work for another.

DNS-Based Ad Blocking: A Solid Foundation

Despite these challenges, DNS-based ad blocking remains a strong foundation for any ad-blocking strategy. Here's why:

• System-Wide Protection: DNS blocking operates at the network level, meaning it can potentially block ads across all applications on your device, including Overwolf and its apps.
• No Performance Overhead: Unlike VPN-based solutions, DNS blocking doesn't typically introduce significant performance overhead, ensuring your gaming experience remains smooth.
• Easy Setup: Setting up DNS-based ad blocking is generally straightforward, requiring only a change in your device's network settings.

How DNS Blocking Works

DNS (Domain Name System) is essentially the internet's phonebook. When your device tries to access a website or an ad server, it first needs to translate the domain name (e.g., adserver.com) into an IP address. A DNS resolver performs this translation. By using a DNS resolver that filters out known ad-serving domains, we can prevent your device from connecting to those servers in the first place.

Implementing DNS Blocking for Overwolf Apps

Here's a step-by-step approach to implementing DNS-based ad blocking for Overwolf and its applications:

1. Choose a DNS Provider: Select a DNS provider that offers ad-blocking capabilities. Some of the top contenders include:

   • NextDNS: As mentioned earlier, NextDNS offers highly customizable blocklists and detailed analytics. This allows you to fine-tune your ad blocking to target specific ad servers used by Overwolf apps.
   • AdGuard DNS: AdGuard DNS is another excellent option, providing a balance of ease of use and effective ad blocking. It offers pre-configured blocklists that are regularly updated.
   • Quad9: While primarily focused on security, Quad9 also blocks some ad-serving domains, providing an extra layer of protection.

2. Configure Your Device:

   • Android: On Android 9 and later, you can configure Private DNS in Settings > Network & Internet > Private DNS. Simply enter the hostname provided by your chosen DNS service (e.g., nextdns.io or dns.adguard.com).
   • iOS: On iOS, you'll typically need to download a configuration profile from your chosen DNS provider and install it in Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.

3. Customize Blocklists (Optional): If you're using NextDNS or a similar service, you can customize your blocklists to target specific ad servers used by Overwolf apps. This requires some investigation to identify the relevant domains.

4. Test Your Setup: After configuring DNS blocking, test it by using Overwolf and its apps. If ads are still appearing, you might need to fine-tune your blocklists.

Going Beyond Basic DNS Blocking

While DNS blocking is a great starting point, it might not be sufficient to block all ads in Overwolf apps. Here are some additional strategies to consider:

1. Host File Modification

Modifying your device's host file can provide another layer of ad blocking. The host file is a system file that maps domain names to IP addresses. By adding entries that point ad-serving domains to a non-routable IP address (e.g., 127.0.0.1), you can prevent your device from connecting to those servers.

• Pros: Highly effective, system-wide blocking.
• Cons: Requires root access on Android, can be complex to manage, manual updates required.

2. Local VPN Apps

Local VPN apps, such as Blokada, create a local VPN on your device to filter network traffic. These apps can block ads and trackers across all applications, including Overwolf apps.

• Pros: System-wide blocking, customizable blocklists, no external VPN required.
• Cons: App-based, can consume more battery than DNS blocking alone.

3. Investigating Network Traffic

To effectively block ads, you need to identify the ad servers used by Overwolf apps. You can use network traffic analysis tools to monitor the network connections made by these apps and identify the domains serving advertisements.

• Tools: Wireshark (desktop), Packet Capture (Android).
• Process:
  1. Run the Overwolf app you want to analyze.
  2. Start capturing network traffic.
  3. Identify connections to ad-serving domains.
  4. Add those domains to your DNS blocklist or host file.

4. Community-Maintained Blocklists

Leverage community-maintained blocklists that are specifically designed to block ads and trackers in various applications. These lists are often updated regularly and can provide comprehensive protection.

• Sources: Search online for community-maintained blocklists for ad blocking. Some popular lists include those maintained by Energized Protection and StevenBlack.

Addressing Specific Challenges

Let's address some specific challenges that might arise when blocking ads in Overwolf apps:

1. Dynamic Ad Servers

If the Overwolf app uses dynamic ad servers that change frequently, you'll need to regularly update your blocklists to keep up. This requires ongoing monitoring of network traffic and adjustments to your configuration.

2. Encrypted Connections (HTTPS)

If the app uses HTTPS to serve ads, DNS blocking alone might not be sufficient, as it can only block the domain name, not the specific content being served. In this case, you might need to use a local VPN app that can inspect HTTPS traffic.

3. False Positives

Aggressive ad blocking can sometimes lead to false positives, where legitimate content is blocked along with ads. If this happens, you'll need to whitelist the affected domains to restore functionality.

Considerations for Mobile Devices

Since AdBlock for Mobile focuses on mobile devices, let's consider some specific aspects related to blocking ads in Overwolf apps on Android devices (as Overwolf doesn't directly run on iOS):

• Battery Life: VPN-based ad blockers can consume more battery than DNS blocking alone. If battery life is a concern, start with DNS blocking and only use a VPN-based solution if necessary.
• Performance: Some ad-blocking methods can impact device performance, especially on older devices. Monitor your device's performance after implementing ad blocking and adjust your configuration if needed.
• Root Access: Some advanced ad-blocking techniques, such as host file modification, require root access on Android. Rooting your device can void your warranty and introduce security risks, so proceed with caution.

Alternatives to Ad Blocking

While ad blocking is a common approach, there are alternative strategies to consider:

1. Supporting Developers Directly

Consider supporting the developers of the Overwolf apps you use by purchasing premium versions or making donations. This helps them generate revenue without relying on advertisements.

2. Using Alternative Apps

Explore alternative apps that offer similar functionality without displaying ads. This might require some research to find suitable replacements.

3. Accepting Ads (Selectively)

Consider whitelisting specific apps or websites that you want to support. This allows them to generate revenue while still blocking ads in other areas.

My Recommendations

Based on what I've read and my experience with ad blocking, here's what I'd recommend for blocking ads in Overwolf apps:

• Start with DNS Blocking: Configure your device to use NextDNS or AdGuard DNS for system-wide ad blocking.
• Investigate Network Traffic: Use network traffic analysis tools to identify the ad servers used by the Overwolf apps you use.
• Customize Blocklists: Add those ad servers to your DNS blocklists.
• Consider a Local VPN App: If DNS blocking is not sufficient, use a local VPN app like Blokada for more comprehensive protection.
• Support Developers: If possible, support the developers of the apps you use by purchasing premium versions or making donations.

It's important to remember that ad blocking is an ongoing process. Ad servers and delivery methods can change, so you'll need to regularly update your configuration to maintain effective ad blocking.

Ultimately, the best approach is to combine multiple strategies to achieve the level of ad blocking you desire while minimizing the impact on your device's performance and battery life. By understanding the challenges and implementing the right solutions, you can enjoy a cleaner and more private experience with Overwolf and its applications.