Pi-hole
lastmod 2025-12-10created 2024-05-314 edits
Pi-hole is mainly used to block ads and tracking, but it also works great as a local DNS server for your network. It is simple to set up and easy to manage through a web interface.
Pi-hole v6
Pi-hole v6, the "DNS sinkhole" that blocks all ads on the network, has been released
Summary of new features:
- Built-in web server and REST API: A new REST API and a built-in web server are integrated into the pihole-FTL binary, so lighttpd and PHP are no longer needed. Reduces the installation footprint and improves performance. Server-side pagination makes the query log interface faster and more responsive.
- Advanced filtering and allowlists: Supports subscribable allowlists (a.k.a. "Antigravity"), making it possible to allow domains.
- Unified configuration file: Multiple configuration files are merged into a single, richly commented toml file for easier management. Existing settings are automatically migrated to this file.
- Redesigned user interface: The web interface has been completely overhauled, with settings split into basic and expert modes so the user experience can be customized.
- HTTPS support: Includes HTTPS support, allowing you to provide your own certificate or use an automatically generated one.
- Docker: The Docker image has switched to an Alpine base, greatly reducing image size and opening up possibilities for future system support.
Upgrading and getting started:
- Bare metal: Upgrading to Pi-hole v6 is simple, and existing users are advised to back up their current settings before upgrading. A dialog asks whether to disable lighttpd, and for most users disabling it is appropriate.
- Docker: The Docker image has been completely rewritten and switched to an Alpine base, so existing environment variables may not work.
See also
- DNS
- Ad blocking
- AdGuard Home - A DNS server that blocks ads and trackers across the entire network