Zen

Zen is an open-source desktop app that provides system-wide ad blocking and privacy protection. It operates as a local proxy to intercept HTTP requests from all applications, blocking ads, tracking scripts, and malware. This approach extends protection beyond the web browser to include desktop applications and operating system components, ensuring that trackers embedded in non-browser software are also neutralized.

The software is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is distributed as installers or portable binaries and can be installed via package managers such as Winget for Windows and Homebrew for macOS. On Linux, automatic proxy configuration is supported for GNOME and KDE desktop environments. The application is compatible with both x64 and ARM64 architectures across these platforms.

Key features

• System-wide interception of HTTP requests via a local proxy
• Blocking of tracking scripts and malware across all desktop apps
• Support for pre-installed filter lists
• Integration of custom hosts files and EasyList-style filters
• Request history log showing which rules blocked specific traffic
• Local generation of root certificates for HTTPS interception
• Cross-platform support for x64 and ARM64 architectures

Written in Go, Zen is designed for users who require privacy protections that exceed the capabilities of standard browser extensions. The application requires the installation of a locally generated root certificate during the first run to modify encrypted HTTPS traffic. This certificate is generated on the device and does not leave the local system. This architecture allows the tool to filter traffic from any software that respects system proxy settings, providing a centralized point of control for network security.

Users can manage their protection through a GUI that includes a filter list manager and a detailed request history. This allows for the inspection of individual requests to determine exactly which filter or rule triggered a block. By allowing the addition of external URLs for hosts files, the software enables a high degree of customization based on the specific needs of the user.

Zen serves as a privacy guard for users seeking a transparent, MIT-licensed tool to manage network-level content filtering.