Whats the Host File.
The host file is a file used in an operating system to map hostnames to IP addresses. You may not know it but the host file is on your computer, it is checked before any request to the internet is made. The host file can be used for multiple things, but we are focusing on blocking websites.
How does the Host file look?
The host file looks like any other file on the hard disk but what makes it stand out from the rest is there's no file extension. It's named "hosts" Not "hosts.txt" Or "hosts.exe" it has no extension.
Where can i find the host file?
The host file is located:
- Windows 7/Vista/XP = C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC
- Windows 2K = C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC
How To Edit The Host File?
You can edit the host file with "Notepad.exe"
- First locate the host file and open it with notepad
- keep in mind you must have permission to edit and save
- Please take a look at Taking Ownership of files
- Take ownership of "hosts" then open with notepad
- View how to block sites below to learn how to edit the host file.
How To Block Sites In The Host File?
To block sites in the host file simply drag and drop host file into notepad.exe or notepad 2 which I am using.
- Choosing which sites you want to block?
Blocking sites in windows is quite easy! simply locate the site you want to block and grab the url, blocking sites can be done by doing the following.
127.0.0.1 facebook.com www.facebook.com
127.0.0.1 myspace.com www.myspace.com
Important! When saving the host file Save it as "All Files" with no extension. and choose to replace.
What Now? Help us Help you!
We are currently trying to find and disable all CPA Lead sites, we want to block them please read our post on CPA leads, or Premium Content Area Bypass
