Everything You Need to Know About Windows Server Host File Location

Hey Dev, are you tired of getting error messages while accessing a website or application on your Windows server? Look no further than the host file location! In this guide, we will explain the importance of the host file, where it is located, and how to edit it.

What is a Host File?

A host file is a simple text file that maps domain names to IP addresses. When you enter a web address into your browser, your computer uses the host file to determine which IP address corresponds to that domain name.

For example, if you enter “www.google.com” into your browser, your computer checks the host file for the corresponding IP address. If the IP address is not listed, your computer sends a request to a DNS server to look up the IP address.

Why Edit the Host File?

Editing the host file can be useful in a number of situations. For example, you can use it to block access to certain websites or to test a website before it goes live. By editing the host file, you can force your computer to use a specific IP address for a domain name.

Where is the Host File Located?

The location of the host file varies depending on the version of Windows you are using.

Windows Version	Host File Location
Windows 10/8/7/Vista/XP	C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts
Windows Server 2019/2016/2012/2008	C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts

Note that the host file is a hidden file, so you may need to change your folder options to show hidden files in order to see it.

How to Edit the Host File

Step 1: Open the Host File

To edit the host file, you will need to open it using a text editor with administrator privileges.

• Open the Start menu
• Type “Notepad”
• Right-click on Notepad and select “Run as administrator”
• Select “File” > “Open”
• Change the file type to “All Files (*.*)”
• Navigate to the host file location and open the file

Step 2: Edit the Host File

Once you have opened the host file, you can edit it by adding or removing lines. Each line should contain an IP address followed by one or more domain names separated by spaces or tabs.

For example:

192.168.1.1 www.example.com

This line maps the domain name “www.example.com” to the IP address “192.168.1.1”.

Step 3: Save the Host File

After you have made your changes, save the host file and close the text editor.

Common Host File Issues

Host File Not Updating

If you have edited the host file but your changes are not taking effect, there may be a caching issue. To clear the cache, open a command prompt with administrator privileges and run the following command:

ipconfig /flushdns

Host File Syntax Error

If there is a syntax error in the host file, it can cause problems with network connectivity. Make sure each line in the host file follows the correct format and does not contain any typos or extra spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I delete the host file?

If you delete the host file, your computer will not be able to resolve domain names to IP addresses. However, Windows will automatically recreate the host file if it is missing.

Can I use the host file to block ads?

Yes, you can use the host file to block ads by mapping ad domains to a non-existent IP address such as 0.0.0.0.

Why do I need administrative privileges to edit the host file?

Administrative privileges are required because the host file is a system file that affects network connectivity. Modifying it without caution can cause serious issues.

Can I use the host file to access a website on a different server?

Yes, you can use the host file to force your computer to use a specific IP address for a domain name. This can be useful when testing a website before it goes live or accessing a website on a different server.

Can I use the host file to bypass a DNS server?

Yes, you can use the host file to bypass a DNS server by mapping a domain name to an IP address. However, this is not recommended as it can cause issues with network connectivity.

Well done Dev, you have now learned everything you need to know about the Windows server host file location!