Asked By
Noah55
0 points
N/A
Posted on - 08/27/2011
Hi,
What is a hosts file in windows XP I have seen people putting some content into the hosts file and removing it.
Why do we use it and what's the use?
The file that's in Drivers/etc folder.
Thank you
Answered By
rizwan87
0 points
N/A
#119336
What is a hosts file in windows XP
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The browser Internet Explorer is set to automatically receive instructions from a certain file that can be found as part of the default installation of the Operating system Windows.
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• The name of that file is found as HOST (No Extension).
• In Windows 98, the file stays in the location of C:Windows
• In Windows XP, it stays in the location of C:WINDOWSSYSTEM32DRIVERSetc
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You probably in your PC, have a basic file already installed on your computer.
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Answered By
Shahid78
0 points
N/A
#119337
What is a hosts file in windows XP
The hosts file is used in Operating system to map hostname to IP Addresses. The hosts file is one of several systems facilities to assist in addressing network nodes in a comupter network.
In windows XP hosts file exist %SystemRoot%system32driversetchosts
Answered By
njigua
0 points
N/A
#119338
What is a hosts file in windows XP
Host File Overview
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A host file is similar to address book.
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For example: typing a website link like www.facebook.com into your web browser  such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer or others, the host file will search and verify if you have an IP address or telephone number recorded on that website link. If you already have, then your desktop or laptop will recognize that record and then the website link will be opened.
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However, if it is still not recorded your desktop or laptop will ask your Internet Service Provider to record the phone number before so that, the website will generate the record.
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There are some advantages and disadvantages of having this host file on your desktop or laptop.
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Advantages:
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1. Using fewer resources such as using a built-in function in your desktop or laptop. This will allow you to block the advertising web sites or other web sites you do not wish to appear on your desktop or laptop.
2. Can work on another connection aside from HTTP.
3. Reduces tracking and privacy issues.
4. Faster browsing.
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Disadvantages:
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1. The host file will not work on unusual web site link. Example: *whateveryouwantgoeshere.com.
2.  It doesn’t work in web site link that starts with IP numbers.
3.  It will not block the ads that are available on the web site link you’re viewing.
