NetGuard VS TrackerControl

TrackerControl

TrackerControl allows users to monitor and control the widespread, ongoing, hidden data collection in mobile apps about user behaviour ('tracking').

Landing page //
2021-09-27

Landing page //
2023-08-22

NetGuard features and specs

Privacy Enhancement
NetGuard helps in enhancing user privacy by blocking unwanted internet traffic, preventing personal data from being sent without the user's consent.
User-Friendly Interface
The application has a straightforward and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to configure and manage their network settings.
No Root Required
NetGuard does not require root access to function, making it accessible to a broader range of Android users who may not want to root their device.
Battery Efficiency
The app is designed to use minimal battery power, ensuring that it does not significantly impact device battery life.
Open Source
NetGuard is open-source software, which allows users to inspect the code for transparency and potentially contribute to its development.

Possible disadvantages of NetGuard

Limited to Android
NetGuard is currently only available for Android devices, which limits its usefulness for users of other operating systems.
Paid Features
While the basic functionality is free, some advanced features require a purchase, which could be a barrier for some users.
Network Performance
In some cases, users may experience a decrease in network performance due to the filtering process used by NetGuard.
Complexity for Novices
Despite a generally user-friendly interface, users unfamiliar with network configuration may find it challenging to fully utilize the application's capabilities.
Limited Customer Support
As an open-source project, NetGuard might not offer as robust customer support as commercial alternatives, which could be a drawback for some users.

TrackerControl features and specs

Privacy Enhancement
TrackerControl enhances user privacy by blocking trackers that collect personal data, preventing organizations from tracking user behavior across apps.
Open Source
Being open-source, users can inspect the code to ensure there are no hidden functionalities, and developers can contribute to its improvement.
User Control
Provides users with the ability to control which trackers are blocked, offering a customized approach to privacy based on individual preferences.
Transparency
Offers transparency by showing the user which trackers are active in their apps and what data they are attempting to collect.
No Root Required
Does not require root access to the device, making it accessible to a broader range of users who might not be comfortable with rooting their phones.

Possible disadvantages of TrackerControl

Limited Functionality on iOS
TrackerControl is primarily designed for Android, and its functionalities might not be available or are limited on iOS.
Potential App Compatibility Issues
Blocking certain trackers might cause some apps to malfunction or not operate as intended, requiring users to manually whitelist certain trackers.
Learning Curve
Users may encounter a learning curve to understand how to effectively use the app and interpret tracking data.
Battery Consumption
Running in the background to monitor and block trackers could potentially lead to increased battery consumption.
Dependence on VPN
Requires setting up a local VPN to function effectively, which might be a barrier for users unfamiliar with VPN technology.

Analysis of NetGuard

Overall verdict

NetGuard is generally considered a good option for users looking for a non-root firewall solution for Android devices.

Why this product is good

NetGuard offers an easy-to-use interface that allows users to block internet access for specific apps without needing root access. This can help protect user privacy, reduce data usage, and improve battery life. Additionally, it supports IPv4/IPv6 and TCP/UDP, and offers features like fine-grained filtering based on IP address and host name. Being open-source, it also provides transparency, which is a key factor in trust for privacy-related applications.

Recommended for

Android users seeking a non-root firewall solution
Individuals concerned about app privacy and data usage
Users interested in open-source applications
People looking to improve device battery life and performance by controlling network access

NetGuard videos

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How to Block Android Apps in connecting to Internet with NetGuard

TrackerControl videos

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Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to NetGuard and TrackerControl)

TrackerControl

Monitoring Tools

73 73%

Monitoring Tools

27% 27

Security & Privacy

59 59%

Security & Privacy

41% 41

Ad Blockers

59 59%

Ad Blockers

41% 41

Cyber Security

100 100%

Cyber Security

0% 0

User comments

Share your experience with using NetGuard and TrackerControl. For example, how are they different and which one is better?

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, NetGuard seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 50 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

NetGuard mentions (50)

Fairphone 6 is switching to a new design that's even more sustainable
> You can partially protect yourself with https://netguard.me/ Looks good. Another alternative would be TrackerControl. - Source: Hacker News / 3 months ago
Fairphone 6 is switching to a new design that's even more sustainable
In your given scenario (no Google Services, no microG), compatibility is the issue. I dont use Android because I like it. I use it because I am forced to use it, without it I cant connect to corporate VPN, cant even take public transport (actually I can use NFC card and take a lot of care never to lose money on it, to drive to first place where I can charge it). Banking software. Update firmware for my headset.... - Source: Hacker News / 3 months ago
Sniffnet – monitor your Internet traffic
There is OpenSnitch [0] on Linux, but it us a bit clumsy to setup. I tried it once and didn't get far, but have it again on my todo list. Not aware of something similar on Linux. On Android there is NetGuard [1] which is awesome (not affiliated, just a happy customer). [0] https://github.com/evilsocket/opensnitch. - Source: Hacker News / 8 months ago
Little Snitch: Network Monitor and Application Firewall for macOS
Netguard if you want to use it on Android https://netguard.me/. - Source: Hacker News / 9 months ago
The Global Surveillance Free-for-All in Mobile Ad Data
Additionally to an OpenWRT [1] Wi-Fi router or Adguard Home [2] server that you can run for yourself, there's also this excellent project called NetGuard [3]. The developer got kicked out of the Play Store for bogus reasons, and had to continue to develop it as an externally funded effort. Support him, buy a pay what you want license, and give him a couple bucks for it if you value open source software like this.... - Source: Hacker News / 12 months ago