# Pixelserv-tls

Pixelserv-tls is a lightweight Transport Layer Security (TLS) web server that returns a 1-pixel image for ad and tracker domains. It is open source and self-hosted, installable on Docker Hub and Unraid.

Canonical page: https://ourlocalhost.com/app/1420/pixelserv-tls

## Description

Pixelserv-TLS is a lightweight Transport Layer Security (TLS) web server that returns a 1-pixel image for ad and tracker domains. It is used in self-hosted Domain Name System (DNS) filtering and ad-blocking setups to reduce bandwidth and improve page load times. It supports TLS 1.0, 1.2, and 1.3, uses Server Name Indication (SNI), and automatically generates server certificates for configured domains on first use. The Docker packaging repository is archived, but the published image remains available.

## Platform availability

Available on 1 of 9 platforms: Unraid.

## Health score

14/100 (Low), based on 3 of 4 factors.
- Maintained: 0 (GitHub repository is archived)
- Popular: 20 (9 GitHub stars)
- Easy to install: 35 (1 install platform, install notes, Docker image)

## Links

- Docker Hub: https://hub.docker.com/r/imthai/pixelserv-tls/
- GitHub: https://github.com/imTHAI/docker-pixelserv-tls
- Unraid: https://ca.unraid.net/apps/pixelserv-tls-1kd2xwm0ims6oq?q=pixelserv-tls

## Common questions

### How should I back up the certificates generated by the Docker image?

Run the container once, copy ca.crt and ca.key from /var/cache/pixelserv to a host folder, remove the container, and then start it again with that folder mounted at /var/cache/pixelserv. This keeps the root CA and generated ad/tracker certificates easy to back up.

### Which ports do the Docker examples require?

They expose ports 80 and 443, or use host networking on Linux so the container can use the host ports directly.

### How can pixelserv-tls work with Pi-hole?

It can be run alongside Pi-hole so blocked domains can show a working block page instead of only failing.

### How is pixelserv-tls used with AdGuard Home?

A setup guide shows it can be used with AdGuard Home, including using its cache store to handle blocked domains.

### Can Diversion install or manage pixelserv-tls on routers?

Yes, Diversion can manage pixelserv-tls installations on supported routers running Asuswrt-Merlin firmware.

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Source: Our Local Host (https://ourlocalhost.com/app/1420/pixelserv-tls), the self-hosted and open-source app directory.