Disclaimer AdGuard for Windows is not an open-source project. We use Github as an open bug tracker for users to see what developers are working on.
We have news: one good and one almost good (if you’re looking on the bright side).
A new network driver
Old drivers had issues: WFP could sometimes show instability for some users, and TDI is outdated and could occasionally cause filtering problems in browsers. That’s why we’ve added a new network driver — SockFilter.
What the new driver brings
SockFilter is still experimental, but it’s designed to bring real improvements over older drivers:
-
Better compatibility with network apps: VPNs, firewalls, and antivirus software work together more smoothly, reducing conflicts.
-
Lower risk of crashes: Operates in a safer part of Windows networking, helping prevent BSODs and other system errors.
-
More stability overall: Handles traffic closer to how apps normally use the network, reducing complexity and making AdGuard more reliable day to day.
You can enable SockFilter in Settings → App settings → Network → Network driver. You can also switch back to WFP or TDI at any time. Feedback is welcome — it helps us make it better.
Windows 8 and 8.1 support ends
Starting with this beta, we’re dropping support for Windows 8 and 8.1. Why now?
These versions are no longer updated by Microsoft itself. Many libraries, development tools, and security technologies now target more modern operating systems. Continuing to support Windows 8 and 8.1 would prevent us from fully using them. By focusing on the latest Windows versions, we can speed up development and make AdGuard more stable overall.
If you need to stay on Windows 8 or 8.1, you can still use AdGuard. Download the last compatible Nightly version. Please be aware that as a Nightly build, it may be unstable and contain bugs. Additionally, it will not receive further feature updates or security patches.
Changelog
Improvements
- Dropped support for Windows 8 and 8.1 #5880
- Implemented automatic update check for filters after they are enabled #5748
- Added support for the SockFilter driver #5780
Fixes
- UI crash when clicking the Ad blocking icon on the main page #5892
- Incorrect notification behavior when updating filters without a network connection #5860
- Incorrect filter update time displayed in the tray icon tooltip #5688
- Infinite loading in the Update tab after reconnecting to the Internet #5861
Sciter (UI engine)
- Sciter updated to v1.0.1106 #5899
AdGuard for Windows direct download links: