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Home › Tips › Tutorials - HowTo › Here’s how to use the HOST file to block ads

Here’s how to use the HOST file to block ads

Myantispyware team November 19, 2005     No Comment    

1. Determine the location of your HOST file:

Windows XP = C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC

Windows 2K = C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC

Windows 98, Me = C :windows\hosts

Macintosh: Mac System Folder or Preferences folder. (eg., Macintosh HD:System Folder:Preferences:Hosts)

2. Backup your HOST file – It’s a good idea to save your original HOST file in a safe location on your computer in case you encounter problems.

3. Download the HOST file – Download the HOST file* from PestPatrol* and save it on your computer. Copy the HOST file to:

Windows XP = C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC

Windows 2K = C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC

Windows 98, Me = C :windows\hosts

Macintosh: Mac System Folder or Preferences folder. (eg., Macintosh HD:System Folder:Preferences:Hosts

4. Locking the HOSTS File – After updating your host file, you might want to make it “read only”. Some malware programs will attempt to add their own entries or overwrite your HOSTS file. Remember to remove the read only status before updating the file or the update will not be accepted. To make your HOST file “read only”:

1. Right click the HOST file
2. Select Properties
3. Under the General tab check Read Only

Please note: In some cases a large HOST file tends to slow down the computer. This usually only happens in W2, but may occur in XP. Here is what to do if this is an issue for you: Open My Computer, Control Panel, Administrative Tools, Services – Scroll down to “DNS Client”, Right-click and select: Properties – Click the drop-down arrow for “Startup type” – Select: Manual, click Apply\Ok and restart.

Tips Tutorials - HowTo

Author: Myantispyware team

Myantispyware is an information security website created in 2004. Our content is written in collaboration with Cyber Security specialists, IT experts, under the direction of Patrik Holder and Valeri Tchmych, founders of Myantispyware.com.

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