Android security works a little differently than PC security, which means you don’t need a firewall on your Android device to the same extent as your PC. Your device is not constantly “open for traffic,” and you’re unlikely to get malicious communications from the Internet (or calling to the Internet).
Still, more and more apps demand Internet connections in the background, and many malicious ones are out there, sending out data about you that you’d rather keep private. These Android firewall apps can help secure your data and control what information enters or exits your device.
1. Best Root-Dependent Option: AFWall+
Price: Free
AFWall+ (Android Firewall +) is a top-rated Android firewall app, but requires some technical knowledge. It is a root-dependent firewall that taps directly into Linux iptables on your Android device. Because it operates at the system level, AFWall+ can offer a more granular rule set than typical VPN-based solutions. In my experience, the extra control makes it an absolute dream for power users who want to micromanage each connection, but the interface may feel a bit intimidating to newcomers.
I love how thoroughly you can configure your firewall settings. You can create different profiles for home, work, or mobile data. You can block all network access except for certain whitelisted apps or vice versa. Plus, AFWall+ has powerful logging, so you know exactly which processes are trying to connect and when.
That said, AFWall+ demands a rooted device, which many people don’t have or aren’t comfortable with. It also has a steeper learning curve, and if you get the rules wrong, you might accidentally block services that you need. Despite this, if you’ve already rooted your phone and relish the idea of profound control over your device’s network connections, AFWall+ is one of the best firewall apps available for Android.
2. Best No-Root Firewall: NetGuard
Price: Free; paid subscriptions available
Functioning as part VPN, part app-controlling firewall, NetGuard is an accessible way to keep close control over your phone’s Internet connectivity. It has its own built-in VPN, which you need to activate before you take control over which apps have access to the Internet and which don’t (or just block app Web access altogether).
This Android firewall app doesn’t require root, so you don’t need a modified device. Also, it is open-source, which means its code can be inspected for security holes or backdoors – something privacy enthusiasts appreciate. Finally, NetGuard is extremely user-friendly. If you want an easy way to see which apps connect to the internet and then block them, NetGuard’s clean interface and clearly labeled toggles make it a breeze.
I found only a few minor downsides. For instance, it relies on a local VPN, meaning you can’t simultaneously use a separate VPN app unless it supports “always-on VPN” chaining (rarely available). Also, certain advanced features (like logging connections over time) may require small in-app purchases to unlock. Nonetheless, NetGuard remains a strong choice if you need a simple, effective firewall solution on an unrooted Android phone.
3. Most Comprehensive Choice: InviZible Pro
Price: Free; paid subscriptions available
InviZible Pro is a unique privacy tool that combines Tor, DNSCrypt, and I2P under one roof, giving you a comprehensive way to safeguard your data on Android. In testing, I found that it can block unapproved connections effectively, but the real draw is how it masks and secures your overall traffic rather than simply restricting specific apps.
InviZible Pro’s holistic approach to privacy and security makes it particularly appealing. The app is designed to intercept your data at several points, ensuring that any app running in the background is forced to obey strict routing rules. With Tor, you can hide your IP address and browsing behavior; DNSCrypt stops third parties from snooping on your DNS queries; and if you’re comfortable with I2P, you get an additional cloak for your network activity. It’s the Swiss Army knife of Android privacy and remains no-root-friendly for most features.
However, this level of complexity means there is a definite learning curve. Getting comfortable with Tor circuits, figuring out which DNS resolvers to trust, and troubleshooting I2P can be daunting if you’re more familiar with a straightforward firewall toggle. Additionally, not all apps play nicely with Tor or custom DNS settings, so you may encounter connectivity issues requiring extra tweaks.
4. Best Analytics: GlassWire
Price: Limited free version; paid subscription available
GlassWire is unique in that it combines a firewall-like blocking system with in-depth data usage analytics. Once installed, it sets up a local VPN on your device and starts tracking every bit of traffic that goes in or out. In my testing, I especially loved the dynamic charts that show exactly when and how much data each app consumes.
Beyond its analytics, GlassWire functions as a capable firewall. You can restrict individual apps from going online or set alerts to warn you when an app’s data usage spikes unexpectedly. It’s also helpful for detecting unusual behavior – if an app you never use suddenly surges in bandwidth consumption, GlassWire will let you know, and you can block it immediately.
Despite these strong points, GlassWire’s free version has limited features. You’ll need a premium subscription if you want to control multiple devices or unlock advanced usage graphs. Also, because it’s constantly monitoring and charting data, GlassWire can nibble at your phone’s battery more than a simpler firewall.
5. Best DNS Modification Option: Rethink
Price: Free
Rethink: DNS + Firewall + VPN takes a multifaceted approach to smartphone security by combining DNS-based filtering, a no-root firewall, and a built-in VPN system. Although it uses the local VPN approach like other Android firewall apps, Rethink is unique because it focuses heavily on DNS modifications. You can pick from different DNS resolvers or use custom blocklists to weed out ads, trackers, and malicious sites.
I love that Rethink’s open-source nature allows for extensive customization options. The app also provides detailed logs of network activities, making it easier to spot apps or domains that might be hogging data or violating your privacy.
Unfortunately, its customization options mean there are a lot of settings to tweak. Configuring multiple blocklists or custom DNS servers can feel daunting if you’re looking for a simple firewall solution. Additionally, like most VPN-based firewalls, you can’t run Rethink with a separate full VPN for location shifting or streaming without some advanced workarounds.
Protect Your Android Device and Your Privacy
These top firewall apps for Android will ensure traffic coming into and out of your device is safe. However, firewall apps aren’t the only security measures you should have. To maximize protection and prevent phishing attempts, you should consider installing a mobile VPN app or investing in antivirus software for Android devices.
Image credit: Canva. All screenshots by Megan Glosson.
