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Rethink DNS + Firewall

With Rethink DNS + Firewall, you can see network connections on Android and set rules for apps and DNS requests.

Developer Celzero

Version 0.5.7 · Open source · Android

Rethink DNS + Firewall combines a firewall, DNS settings and insight into network traffic. You can see which connections make apps and block targeted traffic. This helps when you want to understand why an app in the background makes contact with different addresses. A rule may vary by app or destination.

The app uses Android's VPN function to process traffic locally. You don't have to root your device for that. This does not mean that you automatically surf via an external VPN server. You can use your own WireGuard configuration for an external tunnel, which requires a suitable server or service.

DNS filtering can block known advertising and tracking domains. However, a domain can also be used for a necessary function. Therefore, perform changes step by step and view the log if an app no longer receives notifications or cannot connect anymore. On older Android versions, the link between traffic and the responsible app is less accurate.

Who is it for?

You want to influence Android more on network traffic and are willing to follow rules. Rethink fits especially if you want to see what apps do before blocking connections.

Getting started

Install the official Android release, choose a DNS configuration and give the requested VPN permission. First check that your main apps work before adding additional blocking rules.

Privacy

The chosen DNS provider will process your DNS requests. A local VPN interface does not hide your IP address from websites. Logs may contain information about your app usage; do not share it without viewing them first.

Good to know

Used the Android VPN interface Blocking can disrupt app features Traffic allocation is more limited on older Android versions

Please note

Android does not allow unlimited multiple VPN apps at the same time. A separate VPN may collide with Rethink. Too strict rules can interrupt messages, synchronization and other background functions.

Advantages

  • Firewall without root access Understanding connections and DNS requests Support for custom WireGuard configurations

Things to consider

  • Uses the Android VPN interface Blocking can disrupt app functions Traffic allocation is more limited on older Android versions

Download Rethink DNS + Firewall

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Official download page

Provider’s website · github.com

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Version history

0.5.7

You get a new start screen, more extensive network statistics and new DNS filter profiles.

  • Blocked and allowed domains and IP addresses can be viewed by app and period.
  • New DNS profiles focus on privacy, security and family use. General permission rules for domains and IP addresses are again enforced.
  • The interface fits better on foldable phones. Crashlytics has been removed from the GitHub and its own website.
0.5.6

Problems starting with a DNS proxy and restoring allowed IP addresses have been corrected.

  • Problems starting with a DNS proxy and restoring allowed IP addresses have been corrected.
  • WireGuard starts faster in Proxy Lockdown mode.
  • The release includes modifications for Android 17 and removes deleted WireGuard configurations better in the interface.
Report a new version

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Our verdict

Rethink is useful if you want to investigate network behavior and then take targeted action. It is more extensive than a simple ad blocker, but it also requires more attention. Start looking at connections and don't block until you understand what a rule does. The combination with WireGuard is useful for those who already use their own tunnel. Do not expect automatic anonymity or free external VPN server: these features do not follow from the VPN symbol in Android.

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