pi-hole/FTL
FreeThe Pi-hole FTL engine
FreeFree tier
About pi-hole/FTL
FTLDNS (pihole-FTL) is the core engine for Pi-hole, a network-wide ad blocker. It provides an interactive API and generates statistics for Pi-hole's web interface. Built by coupling with dnsmasq, it offers fast, memory-based stats, runs lightweight on hardware like a Raspberry Pi Zero, and exposes detailed network query data normally hidden in dnsmasq.
Key Features
Fast stats read directly from memory by coupling codebase with dnsmasq
Versatile – upstream dnsmasq changes can be merged with minimal conflict
Lightweight – runs smoothly on minimal hardware such as Raspberry Pi Zero
Interactive API for integration with custom projects
Insightful statistics – exposes DNS stats normally reserved inside dnsmasq
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fast performance due to in-memory stats
- Lightweight – runs on Raspberry Pi Zero with minimal resources
- Interactive API allows deep integration and customization
- Open-source with active community (1.7k stars on GitHub)
- Provides detailed insight into network DNS traffic
Cons
- Disables any existing dnsmasq installation – cannot run alongside it
- Requires Linux-based hardware; not a standalone cross-platform tool
- Limited to Pi-hole ecosystem; not a general-purpose DNS server
Best For
Network-wide ad blocking on home or small office networksDNS query analysis and monitoring via Pi-hole web interfaceDIY network security and content filtering on Linux hardwareBuilding custom network management tools using the interactive API
FAQ
What is FTLDNS?
FTLDNS (pihole-FTL) is the engine that powers Pi-hole. It provides an interactive API and generates statistics for Pi-hole's web interface.
Does FTLDNS work alongside an existing dnsmasq installation?
No. FTLDNS is based on dnsmasq and will disable any existing dnsmasq installation as both cannot run simultaneously.
What hardware is required to run FTLDNS?
FTLDNS is lightweight and runs smoothly on minimal hardware such as a Raspberry Pi Zero.
Is FTLDNS free to use?
Yes, FTLDNS is open-source and free. It is automatically installed when you install Pi-hole.