In today’s digital landscape, online threats such as intrusive ads, malware, and phishing attacks are increasingly prevalent. To combat these challenges, Surfshark has developed a feature called CleanWeb. This tool enhances your online experience by blocking unwanted content and protecting your privacy.
What is CleanWeb?
CleanWeb is a security feature integrated into Surfshark’s VPN service. It functions as an ad blocker, malware detector, and privacy guard, working seamlessly across various devices and browsers. By filtering out malicious content and intrusive ads, CleanWeb ensures a safer and more enjoyable browsing experience.
Key Features of CleanWeb
1. Ad Blocking
CleanWeb effectively blocks various types of ads, including banners, pop-ups, and video ads on streaming platforms. This not only declutters your browsing experience but also speeds up page loading times by preventing unnecessary content from loading.
2. Malware Protection
The feature actively scans websites for malicious content and alerts you if you’re about to access a site known to host malware. This proactive approach helps prevent potential infections and keeps your device secure.
3. Phishing Prevention
CleanWeb identifies and blocks phishing attempts by detecting suspicious links and websites designed to steal personal information. By intercepting these threats, it safeguards your sensitive data from cybercriminals.
4. Cookie Pop-up Blocking
Many websites display cookie consent pop-ups that can be disruptive. CleanWeb automatically blocks these pop-ups, allowing for uninterrupted browsing while still respecting your privacy preferences.
5. Data Breach Alerts
CleanWeb monitors websites for known data breaches and alerts you if the site you’re visiting has experienced a security incident. This information empowers you to make informed decisions about the websites you interact with.
How CleanWeb Works
CleanWeb operates by utilizing DNS-based filtering and real-time threat detection. When you access a website, CleanWeb checks its database for known threats and filters out harmful content before it reaches your device. This process occurs seamlessly in the background, ensuring continuous protection without compromising browsing speed.
Compatibility and Accessibility
CleanWeb is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Additionally, Surfshark offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, allowing you to use CleanWeb directly within your preferred browser. The feature is included in all Surfshark subscription plans, providing comprehensive protection across your devices.
Benefits of Using CleanWeb
- Enhanced Privacy: By blocking trackers and malicious content, CleanWeb helps maintain your online anonymity.
- Improved Security: Real-time threat detection protects your device from malware and phishing attacks.
- Faster Browsing: Eliminating ads and unnecessary content leads to quicker page load times.
- Data Savings: Reducing the amount of content loaded conserves bandwidth, which is especially beneficial for users on limited data plans.
How to Enable CleanWeb in Surfshark VPN
For Windows & macOS Users
- Open the Surfshark VPN app.
- Go to Settings (gear icon).
- Find “CleanWeb” under the Features section.
- Toggle the switch to ON.
For Android & iOS Users
- Launch the Surfshark app.
- Tap the shield icon (Protection).
- Enable CleanWeb.
Once activated, Surfshark will automatically block ads, trackers, and malicious content.
CleanWeb vs. Other Ad Blockers
| Feature | CleanWeb | Traditional Ad Blockers |
|---|---|---|
| Blocks Ads | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Stops Trackers | ✅ Yes | ❌ Some do, some don’t |
| Malware Protection | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Phishing Protection | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Works with VPN | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (browser-only) |
Unlike browser extensions (like uBlock Origin or AdBlock Plus), CleanWeb works at the network level, meaning it blocks threats before they even reach your device—not just in your browser.
Does CleanWeb Affect Internet Speed?
CleanWeb can improve browsing speed because it prevents ads and trackers from loading. However, in rare cases, enabling extra security features might cause a slight delay. If you notice slowdowns, try switching VPN servers or protocols (WireGuard is the fastest).
Limitations of CleanWeb
While CleanWeb is powerful, it has some limitations:
- Doesn’t block all ads – Some non-intrusive or first-party ads may still appear.
- May break certain websites – If a site relies on trackers, it might not load properly. (You can whitelist sites in Surfshark’s Bypasser feature.)
- Not a standalone antivirus – It blocks malicious sites but doesn’t scan downloaded files.
Conclusion
CleanWeb is a valuable tool for anyone seeking to enhance their online security and browsing experience. By integrating ad blocking, malware protection, and privacy features into a single solution, Surfshark’s CleanWeb offers comprehensive protection across various platforms. Whether you’re concerned about intrusive ads, online threats, or data privacy, CleanWeb provides a reliable and user-friendly solution to keep you safe online.
