How to Update the HOSTS File in Windows Vista

Updating the Hosts file in Windows Vista must be done with administrator privileges.

The HOSTS file in Microsoft Vista is used to assist with name resolution for networked computers by providing a correlation between a computer name and an associated IP address. You can update the HOSTS file to include your own entries if desired. Editing the file in Vista or Windows 7 is done differently then in previous versions of Windows.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button.

2. Click "All Programs."

3. Click "Accessories."

4. Locate "Notepad." With your mouse over Notepad, right-click to bring up the menu. Choose "Run as Administrator."

5. Click "Continue" on the User Account Control dialogue if you see one.

6. Click "File" followed by "Open." In the "File Name" box, type:

   C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts

   If your operating system is not on the C drive, you will need to change that to the drive letter of your operating system.

7. Add desired IP addresses and DNS names below the last line in the file. Each IP address should begin on a new line. DNS names should follow the associated IP address and be separated from it by a space. There should only be one IP address and DNS pair per line.

8. Click "File."

9. Click "Save."

Tips & Warnings

• If you need to replace the HOSTS file with the default due to a problem or accidental change, see "Resources."

References

• Microsoft: Chapter 7 - Host Name Resolution
• Microsoft: You Cannot Modify the Hosts file or the Lmhosts File in Windows Vista and Windows 7

Resources

• Microsoft: How do I Reset the HOSTS File Back to the Default?