Comparison
Guardino vs
other DNS tools.
Most DNS services block malware and ads. Guardino does that too — and goes further: zero-log by architecture, focused on attention manipulation as well as malware, on open standards you control. Here's an honest look at how Guardino compares with the typical DNS or filtering service.
| What matters | Guardino DNS Shield | Others Typical DNS/filtering |
|---|---|---|
Query logging | Zero-log — resolved in memory, never written to disk | Varies — many log queries; some monetize the data |
Primary focus | Malware, phishing + attention manipulation | Usually malware and ads only |
Attention-manipulation blocking Dopamine loops, dark patterns, infinite-scroll engines | Rare | |
Whole-network coverage One setup protects every device — phones, TVs, guests | Varies | |
Encrypted DNS (DoH / DoT) | Varies | |
Family / per-profile controls | Varies | |
Free tier | Varies | |
Open standards you can inspect (DoH/DoT/RPZ) | Varies | |
You control the data (domains, not full URLs) | Varies | |
Setup time | ~60 seconds | Varies |
Starting price | $0 (free tier) | Varies |
"Others" reflects common patterns across DNS and filtering services; individual products vary — check each provider's own documentation. Guardino's own limitations are stated honestly.
The honest version
Where Guardino fits.
Guardino is a strong fit if…
- You want protection that doesn't log or monetize your DNS queries
- You care about attention manipulation and dark patterns, not just malware
- You want one setup to cover every device, with a free tier to start
- You prefer open standards (DoH/DoT/RPZ) you can inspect and control
Another tool may fit better if…
- You need a browser-only extension with in-page features
- You want bundled identity-theft or data-breach monitoring
- You need device-level screen-time scheduling
DNS-layer protection pairs well with those tools — they work at different layers.
Common questions
Guardino vs other DNS tools, answered.
How is Guardino different from a typical DNS filtering service?+
Most DNS filters focus on malware and ads. Guardino adds attention-manipulation blocking (dopamine loops, dark patterns), is zero-log by architecture, and runs on open standards (DoH/DoT/RPZ) you can inspect. It protects every device on a network from one setup, with a free tier.
Does Guardino log or sell my DNS queries?+
No. Guardino is zero-log: queries are resolved in memory and never written to disk, so there is nothing to profile, sell, or leak. Many DNS services log queries and some monetize that data — Guardino does not.
Can I use Guardino alongside another security tool?+
Yes. Guardino works at the DNS/network layer, so it runs cleanly alongside browser extensions, endpoint antivirus, or device-level parental controls — they operate at different layers and do not conflict.
Does Guardino block attention-manipulation, not just malware?+
Yes — that is a core focus. Guardino filters the domains behind dopamine-loop, dark-pattern, and infinite-scroll engines at the resolver, across every device on the network. Most DNS filters do not address this category.
Is Guardino free?+
Guardino has a free tier — 300,000 queries, 1 profile, and 3 devices. Paid plans start at $4.99/mo for unlimited queries, more profiles, Focus mode, and Family Shield.