Maza Ad Blocking

Self-Hosted

DNS-based ad blocker for Unbound and Pi-hole

Overview

Maza Ad Blocking is an open-source DNS ad blocker that integrates with Unbound or Pi-hole to block ads, trackers, and malicious domains at the network level. It uses curated blocklists with automatic updates, supports custom whitelists/blacklists, and works across all devices without client-side software. Deployment involves installing via a script and configuring your DNS server (e.g., adding a zone file to Unbound or a custom list to Pi-hole), making it ideal for self-hosters seeking privacy and control over their network’s ad filtering.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  maza_ad_blocking:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: maza-ad-blocking
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Integrates with Unbound and Pi-hole DNS servers
Curated blocklists with auto-updates
Custom whitelist/blacklist support
Network-wide ad/tracker blocking

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Maza Ad Blocking hard to install?

Installation is simple via its official script, but it requires an existing Unbound or Pi-hole setup. You’ll need to edit DNS config files (like Unbound’s zone file) or add a custom list to Pi-hole, which may require basic command-line knowledge.

? Is it a good alternative to AdGuard DNS?

Yes, for self-hosters—Maza is open-source and integrates with your own DNS server, giving full control over blocklists and data. Unlike AdGuard DNS (proprietary), it doesn’t rely on external services, enhancing privacy and customization.

? Is it completely free?

Yes, Maza Ad Blocking is 100% open-source and free to use. There are no paid tiers or subscriptions; you only need to host it on your existing DNS infrastructure.

Top Alternatives

AdGuard DNS (proprietary) Search Google

NextDNS (proprietary) Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category DNS

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (no external service dependency)
⊕ No client-side software required
⊕ Lightweight resource usage

Cons

⊖ Requires existing Unbound/Pi-hole setup
⊖ Needs basic command-line/config editing
⊖ Limited to DNS-level blocking (misses some in-page ads)