HostBlock
HostBlock is a lightweight macOS menu bar application that maintains an updated hosts file to block ads, trackers, and malicious domains at the system level. It works across every browser and app, runs completely locally, and offers both free single-device and paid unlimited-device licenses. The tool is designed for simplicity and effectiveness, including for non-technical users.
FreemiumWebmacOS
Overview
4 featuresHostBlock sits in PulseGate's Productivity & Work category. It focuses on blocking ads, trackers, and malware across all applications on a Mac without relying on browser extensions. It is built as a consumer product for mac users seeking privacy and performance. HostBlock follows a freemium model. HostBlock is available on the web and macOS.
It is developed by HostBlock, and it first shipped in 2026. Development happens publicly on GitHub with 78 commits in the last 90 days. Key capabilities include System-wide Blocking, Hosts File Management, and ad and Tracker Blocklists.
Summary written by a language model from the project’s public pages.
- System-wide Blocking
- Hosts File Management
- Ad and Tracker Blocklists
- Local Operation
Tags
ad-blockermalware-protectionmenu-bar-apphosts-file
Built with & integrations
Framework
Astro
Runs on
BrowsermacOS
Trust & compliance
Verified signals
Indexing history
1What PulseGate has recorded for this listing
- Indexed3 Aug · 17:07 UTCShow HN: HostBlock – A menu bar app that blocks ads and malware (for my grandma) verified against its public sourceSource: PulseGate · Open
Frequently asked questions about HostBlock
- What does HostBlock do?
- HostBlock focuses on blocking ads, trackers, and malware across all applications on a Mac without relying on browser extensions. It is catalogued under Productivity & Work on PulseGate.
- Who is HostBlock for?
- HostBlock is a consumer product built for mac users seeking privacy and performance.
- Is HostBlock free?
- Yes — there is a free tier, with paid plans for advanced use.
- What platforms does HostBlock run on?
- HostBlock runs on the web and macOS.
- Is HostBlock still active?
- The GitHub repository shows 78 commits in the last 90 days.
- What are alternatives to HostBlock?
- Similar projects tracked by PulseGate include Site Update Notification, QuickExplorer, and Smart Clipboard Vault.Site Update NotificationQuickExplorerSmart Clipboard Vault
- Who makes HostBlock?
- HostBlock is developed by HostBlock.
- When did HostBlock launch?
- HostBlock first shipped in 2026.
Also in Productivity & Work
Same category — not a similarity match