Profiles and Devices
Profiles and Devices
What a profile is
A profile defines the rules that apply to a device or group of devices.
Typical profile elements include:
- Filters
- Services
- Custom rules
- Security and privacy settings
- Content restrictions
A profile is essentially a policy.
What a device is
A device is the endpoint using that policy.
Examples include:
- Personal laptop
- Smartphone
- Tablet
- Router
- Smart TV
- Browser profile
Simple profile strategy
For most people, a simple setup works better than a highly segmented one.
Basic
Use Basic for devices where compatibility matters more than aggressive blocking.
Good fits:
- Smart TVs
- Game consoles
- Shared household devices
- Older or more sensitive devices
Balanced
This is the best all-around choice for many people.
A balanced profile usually provides:
- Malware and phishing filtering
- Ad and tracker reduction
- A manageable level of privacy protection
- Lower risk of false positives than a hardened setup
Hardened
Use Hardened only after you are comfortable troubleshooting and maintaining DNS rules.
This profile may block more domains and may be more likely to cause compatibility issues.
Example arrangement
| Device | Suggested profile |
|---|---|
| Personal computer | Balanced |
| Smartphone | Balanced |
| Smart TV | Basic |
| Router | Basic |
| Child device | Kids or limited profile |
The exact names do not matter. What matters is that the profile matches the device’s needs.
Keep it manageable
Do not create a new profile for every single device unless the policies are genuinely different.
Create additional profiles only when:
- A device needs different filtering rules
- A family member has different needs
- A profile should be more permissive or more restrictive than the default
The simplest configuration that works well is usually the best one.