Updated: October 28, 2026
An ad blocker (often just called "adblock") is a browser extension that stops ads from loading: banners, pop-ups, autoplay videos and YouTube ads. Pages load faster, use less data, and fewer companies follow you around the web.
How does an ad blocker work?
Every page you open requests pieces from other servers: images, scripts and ads. An ad blocker checks each request against public lists of advertising and tracking servers, such as EasyList, and blocks the ones that match. Everything else loads as usual.
Is a free ad blocker really free?
Most are free to install, but someone pays for development. There are three common models:
- Acceptable ads: large companies pay so their ads get through. Some popular blockers turn this on by default.
- Freemium: basic blocking is free, extra features cost money.
- Donations: the blocker charges no one and lives on voluntary support.
What to check before installing one
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Does it let paid ads through? | If advertisers pay it, it does not block everything. |
| What does its privacy policy say? | An extension can see the pages you visit. |
| Is it built for Manifest V3? | Chrome no longer runs old Manifest V2 extensions. |
| When was it last updated? | YouTube and websites change their ads often. |
| How many permissions does it ask for? | Be wary of more access than it needs. |
How to install an ad blocker in Chrome
- Open the Chrome Web Store and search for the extension by name.
- Check the developer, the reviews and the permissions.
- Click "Add to Chrome" and confirm.
- Pin the icon from the puzzle-piece menu so you can always see it.
Install only from the official store. An "ad blocker" downloaded from a random site may be exactly the kind of software you are trying to avoid.
What Qhawa does
Qhawa is a free ad blocker for Chrome built for Manifest V3. It removes ads on YouTube and across the web, blocks trackers, and warns you before you open a known scam, phishing or malware page. It has no acceptable-ads program: it does not charge advertisers and does not sell your data. It is funded by donations.
Add to Chrome
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal to use an ad blocker?
Yes. Choosing what loads in your own browser is legal in most countries. Some sites may ask you to turn it off to see their content.
Does an ad blocker slow down my computer?
Usually the opposite: without ads and trackers, pages load faster and use less memory.
Does it work on my phone?
Chrome extensions only work on desktop. Chrome on Android and iPhone does not support extensions.
Can I turn it off on one site?
Yes. Most blockers, Qhawa included, let you pause blocking on a specific site you want to support.