A little help.
A lot more clarity.
Find practical answers about HomeGuard, setup, family controls, and the limits of DNS filtering.
12 questions
What does HomeGuard do?
HomeGuard is a compact ESP32-S3 home network protection project focused on DNS filtering, parental controls, and device visibility. The development firmware includes a local browser console for managing rules and reviewing DNS activity.
Does it block all traffic or every app?
No. HomeGuard applies policies to DNS requests that reach it. Cached addresses, hardcoded IP addresses, alternative DNS, encrypted DNS such as DoH or DoT, mobile data, and some IPv6 configurations can bypass DNS filtering. It is not a full traffic firewall or a guarantee that an app is blocked.
Can I keep my existing router?
The intended DNS setup works alongside a router that can advertise a custom DNS server to LAN clients. Confirm that your router supports this before changing settings. Start with one test device. Gateway mode and full-speed traffic forwarding are not established product capabilities.
Do I plug it into a computer to protect that computer?
The USB form factor provides a compact hardware platform. Protection depends on your network and DNS configuration, not simply plugging the dongle into a computer. Use a suitable USB power source and the instructions for your hardware and firmware.
Can different devices have different rules?
The development firmware includes device groups, category policies, schedules, and manual domain rules. Accurate device identification and DNS configuration matter; private MAC addresses and changing IP assignments may affect device matching.
Can it read messages or show full browsing history?
DNS activity can indicate requested domain names. It does not reveal encrypted messages, page contents, or a complete browsing history. A DNS request is not proof that someone visited a page.
Where do I open the management console?
Use HomeGuard’s local IP address from your router’s client list. On supported firmware and a client using HomeGuard DNS, http://homeguard.home.arpa/ may also work. The public homeguardbox.com website is not your device’s administration page.
Is the local console encrypted?
The reviewed development firmware serves its administrator console over local HTTP. Use a trusted private LAN, change the administrator password, and never expose or port-forward the console to the internet.
Is the product available to buy?
Availability, pricing, shipping, warranty, and any subscription terms have not been announced. This website does not accept orders or payments. The supplied product images are marketing visuals; final hardware and packaging may differ.
Does “Block DNS” disconnect a device?
No. It blocks DNS requests that HomeGuard receives from the identified device. It does not turn off Wi-Fi or cut off all internet access.
Should I enable HomeGuard DHCP?
The reviewed firmware describes its DHCP service as experimental. Leave it disabled for a normal first setup, keep your existing router’s DHCP service, and avoid running competing DHCP servers on your home network.
What is the current development status?
The project files reviewed include v0.7.4.2 development source for the Pocket Dongle ESP32-S3 platform. Hardware compilation and household reliability still need verification for that build. Website demonstrations use sample data and are not connected to a real device.
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