FritzOS 8.50 Adds a Built-in Network-wide Ad Blocker and DNS Malware Filters for the Fritzbox

AVM is preparing the next major Fritzbox operating system update. FritzOS 8.50 brings a built-in network-wide ad blocker and DNS-based malware filtering, as the company officially outlined in its latest Lab announcement.

The headline feature is a router-level ad blocker that uses DNS filter lists. According to AVM, the feature blocks ads, trackers, and known malware across the entire home network, covering devices connected over both Wi-Fi and LAN. That means smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and consoles benefit from the same protection as a traditional PC, with no extra software or hardware required. Users can rely on public DNS blocklists or add their own filters through the Fritzbox UI under Home Network > Network > Network Settings > Advanced Network Settings > DNS Filter.

The same DNS filter path also doubles as a security layer. By blocking traffic to known malicious domains, the Fritzbox adds a network-level shield that helps protect every connected device, including equipment that cannot run its own security software. For households that already rely on browser-based blockers, the router-level approach provides consistent coverage without per-device setup.

Beyond the ad blocker, FritzOS 8.50 introduces Smart Check, a new diagnostic layer inside MyFritzApp. The dashboard shows status information for internet, telephony, smart home, connected devices, and security-relevant metrics, and surfaces likely causes when something is wrong. Fritz Failsafe, the broadband backup path that keeps the network online during an outage, is also being expanded to Fritzbox models with 4G or 5G. FritzFon gets a simplified mode that turns context keys into quick-dial shortcuts, with support for up to four emergency contacts.

A general release date has not been announced yet. AVM is shipping the new features through its Fritz Lab beta channel first, which means the current build is still considered a preview. As with any Lab release, users should back up their settings and confirm that their Fritzbox model is part of the public Lab program before installing.

The Fritzbox platform sits at the heart of many European home networks, and a built-in ad blocker with DNS-based malware filtering would extend AVM’s security story well beyond traditional firewall settings. Once FritzOS 8.50 reaches general availability, it will be relevant not only for home users, but also for small offices and gaming households that want a router-level baseline without per-device blockers.

The official AVM press release is available through the FRITZ! press center, while the Lab beta is distributed through the official FRITZ! Lab page.