Windows Server 2019 Hosts File Not Working Guide for Devs

Greetings Dev, welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to fix the issue of Windows Server 2019 hosts file not working. As you may already know, the hosts file is a vital component of any server as it translates domain names into IP addresses. However, when the hosts file stops working, it can cause severe disruptions to your server and website’s functionality. Fortunately, this guide will provide you with solutions to fix this problem.

How to Identify the Issue

The first step towards fixing a problem is to identify it. To determine whether your hosts file is not working, you can try visiting your website on a browser. If the website does not load or displays an error message, then the hosts file might be causing the problem. You can also try pinging your website’s domain name using the command prompt. If the ping fails, then the hosts file might be the culprit.

To confirm whether the hosts file is not working, you can try accessing it using the following steps:

Reasons Why the Hosts File is Not Working

There are various reasons why the hosts file might stop working. Some of the most common ones include:

• Incorrect syntax
• Incorrect file permissions
• Third-party software interference, such as antivirus or firewalls
• File corruption or deletion
• Virus or malware attack

Now that you know the reasons why the hosts file might not be working, let’s explore how you can fix the problem.

Fixing the Hosts File Not Working Issue

Method 1: Check Syntax Errors

One of the most common reasons why the hosts file might not work is due to syntax errors. Incorrect syntax can cause problems, and it is essential to ensure that the syntax is correct. Here is how to check for syntax errors:

1. Open the hosts file using Notepad or any other text editor.
2. Check that there are no typos, extra spaces, or mistakes in the syntax.
3. If there are any errors, correct them and save the file.

If this method does not work, then try the next one.

Method 2: Disable Third-Party Software

Third-party software such as antivirus and firewalls can interfere with the hosts file causing it not to work. You can try disabling the software temporarily and test if the hosts file works correctly. Here is how to disable third-party software:

1. Click on the Start button and type “msconfig” in the search bar.
2. Click on the System Configuration app that appears in the search results.
3. Go to the Services tab and click on the “Hide all Microsoft services” option.
4. Disable all the remaining services that are not Microsoft services.
5. Click on Apply and then OK.
6. Restart your computer and check if the hosts file is working correctly.

Method 3: Reset Hosts File to Default

If the above methods do not work, the next step is to reset the hosts file to its default settings. Here is how to do it:

1. Open the hosts file using Notepad or any other text editor.
2. Delete all the entries in the file.
3. Save the file and restart your computer.

After restarting your computer, the hosts file should be reset to its default settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What is the Hosts File in Windows Server?

A. The hosts file is a file stored on the Windows Server that maps domain names to IP addresses. It acts as a local domain name resolver, and it is usually located in the “C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\” directory.

Q2. Can I Edit the Hosts File in Windows Server 2019?

A. Yes, you can edit the hosts file in Windows Server 2019. However, you need to have administrative privileges to do so.

Q3. How Do I Check if the Hosts File is Working?

A. You can check if the hosts file is working by visiting your website on a browser or by pinging your website’s domain name using the command prompt. If the website does not load or displays an error message, then the hosts file might be causing the problem.

Q4. Can a Virus or Malware Affect the Hosts File?

A. Yes, a virus or malware can affect the hosts file. It can alter, corrupt or delete the file, causing it not to work correctly.

Q5. How Do I Reset the Hosts File to Default?

A. To reset the hosts file to default, open the hosts file using Notepad or any other text editor, delete all the entries in the file, and save the file. Restart your computer, and the hosts file should be reset to its default settings.

In conclusion, the hosts file is an essential component of any server, and if it stops working, it can cause severe disruptions to your website’s functionality. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can fix the hosts file not working issue and keep your server and website running smoothly.