Editing the hosts file in Windows 10 is a handy way to control and customize how your computer resolves domain names. By adding specific IP addresses to domain names in the hosts file, you can bypass the usual DNS resolution process. This is helpful for testing websites, blocking sites, or setting up custom domains.
How to Edit Hosts File Windows 10
Making changes to your hosts file in Windows 10 can be useful for various reasons. Let’s walk through the steps you need to follow to safely and effectively edit this file.
Step 1: Open Notepad as Administrator
First, you need to open Notepad with administrative privileges.
To do this, right-click on the Notepad icon and select “Run as administrator.” This is important because standard user permissions won’t allow you to edit the hosts file.
Step 2: Open the Hosts File
In Notepad, go to File > Open, and then navigate to the hosts file location.
The hosts file is usually located at C:WindowsSystem32driversetc. Make sure to change the file type filter from “Text Documents” to “All Files” to see the hosts file.
Step 3: Make Your Changes
Add the IP addresses and domain names you want to the file.
Each entry should be on a new line, with the IP address first, followed by the domain name. For example, “127.0.0.1 example.com” would redirect example.com to your local machine.
Step 4: Save the File
Save the changes you’ve made by selecting File > Save.
Because you opened Notepad as an administrator, you should be able to save the file directly. If you get an error, double-check that you have administrative privileges.
Step 5: Flush DNS Cache
Finally, clear your DNS cache to apply the changes.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type “ipconfig /flushdns,” then press Enter. This step ensures that your computer uses the updated hosts file immediately.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your computer will follow the new routing rules you’ve set up in the hosts file.
Tips for Editing Hosts File Windows 10
- Always make a backup of the original hosts file before making any changes.
- Use Notepad or another simple text editor to avoid formatting issues.
- Double-check the syntax to avoid any errors.
- Be careful when blocking sites; you might block something essential.
- If changes don’t seem to work, restart your computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need to edit my hosts file?
Editing the hosts file can be useful for testing website changes, blocking unwanted sites, or setting up custom domain names.
What happens if I make a mistake in the hosts file?
A mistake can cause connectivity issues with websites. Always backup the original file before making changes.
Can I use any text editor to edit the hosts file?
While you can use most text editors, it’s best to use a simple editor like Notepad to avoid formatting issues.
Do I need administrator access to edit the hosts file?
Yes, you need administrative privileges to save changes to the hosts file.
How can I revert back to the original hosts file?
Simply replace the edited file with your backup of the original hosts file.
Summary of How to Edit Hosts File Windows 10
- Open Notepad as Administrator
- Open the Hosts File
- Make Your Changes
- Save the File
- Flush DNS Cache
Conclusion
Editing the hosts file in Windows 10 can solve various networking and site access issues quickly and efficiently. Whether you’re a developer testing a new site, a parent blocking unwanted content, or just experimenting, knowing how to edit the hosts file is a valuable skill.
Always remember to proceed with caution. Make a backup before making any changes, and double-check your entries to avoid novice mistakes. Following the steps outlined above will ensure that you can confidently navigate this aspect of Windows 10. For more advanced uses and to keep your system running smoothly, stay informed and don’t hesitate to seek further reading or expert advice.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.