Ads by DNS Unlocker can be frustrating and intrusive while browsing on your Windows 11 computer. These ads often appear unexpectedly, disrupting your online experience.
Fortunately, removing DNS Unlocker ads is possible with a few simple steps. This guide will walk you through the process carefully and clearly.
Even if you’re not very tech-savvy, you’ll find the instructions easy to follow. We’ll start with basic checks and move toward more advanced solutions.
By the end, you should have a cleaner, ad-free browsing experience on your Windows 11 device.
Quick Note Before You Start
Before proceeding, make sure you have the following ready:
- A Windows 11 user account with administrative privileges (important for making system changes).
- An active internet connection to download any necessary tools or updates.
- Basic familiarity with opening Control Panel, Task Manager, and Windows Settings.
- Backup your important data as a precaution.
Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs
Many times, DNS Unlocker is bundled with other free software and gets installed without clear permission. Removing these programs can stop the ads.
- Click on the Start button and select Settings.
- Go to Apps → Installed apps.
- Scroll through the list and look for any suspicious or unknown programs named “DNS Unlocker” or similar adware.
- Click on the program and select Uninstall. Follow the prompts to remove it.
- Restart your computer after uninstalling.
Why this matters: Removing unwanted programs reduces the chances of adware running in the background and injecting ads into your browser.
Step 2: Reset Your Browser Settings
DNS Unlocker often modifies your browser settings to display ads. Resetting your browser can restore default settings and remove harmful extensions.
For Microsoft Edge:
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Click the three dots
...in the top-right corner and choose Settings. - Go to Reset Settings on the left panel.
- Select Restore settings to their default values.
- Confirm by clicking Reset.
For Google Chrome:
- Open Google Chrome.
- Click the three dots
...in the top-right corner and select Settings. - Scroll down and click Reset settings under Reset and clean up.
- Choose Restore settings to their original defaults.
- Click Reset settings to confirm.
Why this matters: Resetting browsers removes unwanted changes like homepage redirects, search engine alterations, or harmful extensions.
Step 3: Remove DNS Unlocker from Network Settings
DNS Unlocker changes your DNS settings to redirect traffic through their servers, causing ads to appear. Resetting these can stop ad injection.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet → Advanced network settings → More network adapter options.
- Right-click your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and choose Properties.
- Scroll to Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), select it, then click Properties.
- In the new window, select Obtain DNS server address automatically.
- Click OK to save changes.
- Repeat similar steps for Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) if necessary.
- Restart your computer.
Why this matters: Default DNS settings prevent redirection of your internet traffic through malicious servers that inject ads.
Step 4: Scan Your PC with Antivirus and Anti-Malware Tools
Adware like DNS Unlocker can hide in your system files. Running a full scan helps detect and remove hidden threats.
- Open Windows Security by searching for it in the Start menu.
- Click on Virus & threat protection.
- Select Scan options and choose Full scan.
- Click Scan now and wait for the process to complete.
- If threats are found, follow the instructions to quarantine or remove them.
- Optionally, download and run a trusted anti-malware tool like Malwarebytes for a second opinion.
Why this matters: Malware scans remove persistent files and processes that cause unwanted ads to appear even after uninstalling programs.
Alternative Method: Use AdwCleaner to Remove DNS Unlocker
AdwCleaner is a free tool designed to remove adware and unwanted programs efficiently.
- Download AdwCleaner from the official website: https://www.malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner.
- Run the downloaded file (no installation needed).
- Click Scan Now and wait for it to complete.
- If any threats are detected, click Clean & Fix.
- Restart your computer when prompted.
Note: AdwCleaner focuses on adware and potentially unwanted programs, making it very useful against DNS Unlocker.
FAQs
What is DNS Unlocker?
DNS Unlocker is an adware application that injects unwanted ads into your browsing sessions by modifying DNS settings and browser configurations.
Is DNS Unlocker harmful?
While it is not a virus, DNS Unlocker is intrusive and can compromise your browsing experience and privacy by showing unwanted ads and tracking your internet activity.
Can I remove DNS Unlocker without technical help?
Yes, this guide provides easy-to-follow steps that most users can perform without advanced technical knowledge.
Will removing DNS Unlocker affect my internet speed?
Removing DNS Unlocker can actually improve your internet speed and stability, as it prevents traffic rerouting through ad servers.
Do I need to reset all browsers?
It is recommended to reset any browsers you use regularly to ensure all adware-related changes are removed.
When Nothing Works
If you have followed all the steps and still see ads from DNS Unlocker, consider the following options:
- Use the official Microsoft Support pages for advanced troubleshooting: https://support.microsoft.com.
- Seek help from a trusted computer technician who can perform a deeper system clean.
- Consider performing a system restore to a point before the ads appeared if you have restore points enabled.
- As a last resort, reinstall Windows 11 to ensure a clean start.
Conclusion
Removing ads by DNS Unlocker on Windows 11 is achievable by following a clear series of steps. Begin by uninstalling suspicious programs, resetting your browsers, and fixing DNS settings. Running scans ensures your system is clean from hidden threats.
Using tools like AdwCleaner can simplify the removal process. If issues persist, advanced options like system restore or professional help may be necessary.
By carefully following this guide, you can regain control of your browsing experience and enjoy an ad-free environment on your Windows 11 PC.