JavaScript Blocker 4.1.10

Winner Best software in 2014 - Ad Blockers/No Tracking.

Overview

JavaScript Blocker is an extension for the Apple Safari web browser which works on the Windows and Mac version of the browser.

The extension provides a range of security conscious adjustments to the web browsing experience including the ability to block embedded content, video, XHRs, frames and objects.

Installation

The extension can be added through Download3k or via the link in the Apple extensions site when running Safari directly. The installation is performed inside the browser and takes only a minute or two to download and install.

Once installed, the control panel for the extension will display.

Interface

The Interface is actually tiny with small text used for tab headings to view different setting screens. The Rules tab provides ways to enable and disable features like whitelist rules, blacklist rules, Javascript blocking, block video playback, frames, images and embedded objects. These elements can all be set individually to change how all web pages will appear in the future.

Adverts are also blocked with this browser extension software. Whilst this is far less configurable than with other software like AdBlock for Firefox, it still clearly does a good job blocking unwanted advertising from showing on the page. Browser referrer information can also be randomized or altered to prevent giving too much information away.

There are also some experimental features like trying to prevent a web page window from re-sizing when requested to do so by a web page loading up or blocking unwanted alerts from displaying.

Pros

Small, extension for Safari which can block ads successfully. Turn on or off other features like video playback, audio content, objects and media which can eat bandwidth or destabilize a web browser if poorly coded. The ability to choose which features to disable and those to enable is well supported. The referrer information about which browser is being used and other tell-tale data points can either be blocked or randomized.

Cons

Less configuration of the ad blocking than with other extensions for different web browsers. The administration settings are a little difficult to understand and better suited to experienced web users who can grasp the differences between each setting.

Alternatives

There is not a good alternative in Safari that offers this many features in a single extension.

Conclusion

Javascript Blocker is a good extension to add to Safari if you wish to block ads and selectively allow or disallow certain elements to display.

Winner Best software in 2014 - Ad Blockers/No Tracking.