What uBO actually does
- Static filtering: rule lists (EasyList/EasyPrivacy, uBO filters) block requests and hide elements.
- Dynamic filtering: optional “matrix” lets you allow/deny scripts/frames per site (like a friendlier uMatrix).
- Cosmetic filtering: cleans up leftovers (placeholders, popovers, cookie nags when feasible).
- Resource replacement: swaps known trackers with harmless stubs to prevent breakage.
Install
- Firefox / LibreWolf: Add uBlock Origin from the official add-ons store.
- Chromium-based: Install from the Chrome Web Store (look for the one by Raymond Hill).
No accounts, no “acceptable ads,” no nags. It just works.
Recommended settings (fast + low breakage)
- In Filter lists, keep defaults + enable uBlock filters – Annoyances and your regional list.
- Leave “Block remote fonts” off unless you’re okay with some pages looking wrong (or self-host fonts).
- Under Settings, keep Parse and enforce cosmetic filters on.
- Optional: enable “I am an advanced user” → start with medium mode dynamic filtering for power control.
Power users: dynamic filtering lets you allow only first-party scripts by default, then selectively enable 3rd-party domains that are essential.
Verify it’s working (no telemetry)
- Open the page logger (uBO icon → Open the logger).
- Reload a noisy news site. You’ll see blocked requests (red), allowed (green).
- Count how many off-origin hits were stopped — that’s real privacy saved.
FAQ
uBO vs Adblock Plus? uBO is lighter, more capable, and has no “acceptable ads” program.
Will it break sites? Sometimes. Use the big power button to disable per-site, or allow a needed domain in the popup for that page only.