📺 Video Tutorial

🛡️ Why NetGuard Firewall Is Critical

NetGuard gives you complete control over which apps can access the internet, blocking data exfiltration and unauthorized connections without root access.

• 🚫 Block apps by default – Zero-trust network access
• 📊 Monitor all connection attempts – See what’s trying to phone home
• 🔒 Per-app rules – Granular control over every application
• ⚡ No root required – Works on any Android device

Download from: F-Droid or GitHub (NetGuard)

💡 Setup Steps

Quick guide:

• 1️⃣ Install NetGuard from F-Droid or Play Store
• 2️⃣ Enable “Block all” by default in settings
• 3️⃣ Whitelist only essential apps (browser, messaging)
• 4️⃣ Configure separate WiFi and mobile data rules
• 5️⃣ Enable logging to monitor blocked attempts

💡 Firewall Management & Security Tips

🎉 You’re now in control! NetGuard is blocking unauthorized network access.

Essential Firewall Best Practices:

• 🔍 Review blocked attempts daily
  Check NetGuard’s log every morning to see which apps tried to connect and were blocked. Apps that repeatedly attempt connections when blocked may be malicious or compromised. Pay special attention to system apps and pre-installed bloatware trying to phone home. Document patterns and research suspicious apps.
• 🚫 Default deny everything
  Start with all apps blocked, then whitelist only what you need. This zero-trust approach means new apps are automatically blocked until you explicitly allow them. Most apps don’t need internet access to function – a calculator, flashlight, or note-taking app should NEVER need network access. Question every app that requests internet.
• 📱 Separate WiFi and mobile data rules
  Configure different rules for WiFi vs mobile data. You might allow an app on WiFi but block it on mobile data to save bandwidth and prevent data exfiltration when you’re away from home. This also helps identify apps that behave differently on different networks – a major red flag for malware.
• ⚠️ Monitor system apps carefully
  Many Android system apps and manufacturer bloatware constantly try to send data. Block everything except critical system services. Google Play Services, for example, can be heavily restricted without breaking most functionality. Research each system app before allowing it – many are telemetry and tracking services.
• 🔒 Block background data for sensitive apps
  Banking apps, password managers, and other sensitive applications should only connect when you’re actively using them. Block background data to prevent them from being exploited while running in the background. Enable connections only when you open the app, then block again when you close it.
• 📊 Analyze connection patterns over time
  Use NetGuard’s logging to identify which apps connect most frequently, when they connect, and how much data they use. Apps that connect at unusual hours (3 AM) or use excessive data may be compromised. Export logs weekly and compare patterns to spot anomalies and slow-developing threats.
• 🌐 Block ads and trackers at network level
  NetGuard can use hosts files to block advertising and tracking domains. Enable this feature to prevent apps from sending your data to advertising networks, even if you’ve allowed the app internet access. This provides an additional privacy layer beyond app-level blocking.
• 🛡️ Create app-specific rules for security
  For maximum security, create custom rules for each app category. Social media apps might get WiFi-only access. Games might be completely blocked. Work apps might only connect during business hours. Tailor your firewall to your actual usage patterns and threat model.
• ⚡ Test app functionality after blocking
  After blocking an app, use it normally to ensure core functionality still works. Many apps claim they need internet access but function perfectly without it. If an app breaks when blocked, investigate WHY it needs network access before allowing it. Some apps use internet requirements as DRM or tracking mechanisms.
• 🔍 Export and backup your rules regularly
  Regularly export your NetGuard configuration and save it securely to cloud storage. If you need to reset your phone or switch devices, you can quickly restore your carefully crafted firewall rules without starting from scratch. This also serves as documentation of your security posture.
• 📱 Use NetGuard with PCAPdroid for maximum visibility
  Run NetGuard alongside PCAPdroid for complete network control. NetGuard blocks at the app level, while PCAPdroid shows you exactly what’s happening at the network level. Together, they provide comprehensive protection and visibility into all network activity.
• 🔒 Enable lockdown mode for high-security situations
  NetGuard has a lockdown mode that blocks ALL network access except apps you explicitly whitelist. Use this when traveling, in public WiFi environments, or when you suspect compromise. It’s the nuclear option for network security – nothing gets through unless you allow it.

Remember: Every connection is a potential attack vector. Control them all with NetGuard.