Wi-Fi Network Ad-Block Device Creation

# Project Title: Development of a Wi-Fi-Based Network-Wide Ad-Blocking Device

## Project Overview

I am looking for an experienced embedded systems developer or software engineer to develop a compact, hardware-based ad-blocking solution that connects to a Wi-Fi router and blocks advertisements across multiple connected devices without requiring individual ad-blocking applications or paid subscriptions.

The goal is to develop a low-cost, reliable device that filters internet traffic at the network level and blocks known advertising and tracking domains while allowing legitimate website content and applications to function normally.

## Key Requirements

**1. Network-Wide Ad Blocking**

* Block known advertising and tracking domains across connected devices.
* Support smartphones, laptops, smart TVs and other Wi-Fi-connected devices.
* Work without installing separate software on every device.

**2. Hardware Integration**

* Develop the solution using a Raspberry Pi, ESP32 or another suitable low-cost platform.
* Connect to the existing home router and configure network-level DNS filtering.
* Minimize power consumption and hardware costs.

**3. Intelligent Filtering Software**

* Integrate regularly updated advertising-domain blocklists.
* Allow legitimate domains through while blocking known advertising sources.
* Provide customizable allowlists and blocklists.
* Include error handling to prevent unnecessary disruption to normal internet access.

**4. User Dashboard**

* Display the number of blocked requests.
* Show filtering statistics and device activity.
* Provide simple controls to enable or disable filtering and manage blocked domains.

**5. Performance and Reliability**

* Maintain fast DNS response times and stable internet connectivity.
* Support automatic startup and recovery after power interruptions.
* Provide a straightforward setup process for non-technical users.

## Preferred Technical Skills

* Embedded systems and Linux development
* C/C++, Python or similar programming languages
* DNS protocols, networking and router configuration
* Raspberry Pi, ESP32 or comparable hardware
* Pi-hole, AdGuard Home or similar DNS-filtering technologies
* Web dashboard development and security best practices

## Expected Deliverables

1. Working hardware prototype and software.
2. Complete source code and setup instructions.
3. Hardware recommendations and estimated bill of materials.
4. A simple user interface or dashboard.
5. Testing results covering ad blocking, internet performance and reliability.
6. Documentation for future improvements and commercial production.

## Important Technical Consideration

The initial version should focus on DNS-based ad blocking. Blocking every advertisement, particularly ads served from the same domains as legitimate content or embedded within major platforms, is not guaranteed. The developer should explain these limitations and propose practical improvements.

## Project Objective

The long-term vision is to create an affordable, plug-and-play ad-blocking device that users can connect to their home network to reduce unwanted advertisements and tracking without paying recurring ad-blocking subscription fees.