Title: Hosts File Update
msequine - September 12, 2006 12:18 PM (GMT)
If anyone uses MVPS to update their HOSTS file, there was an update yesterday. I use HOSTSMAN to update...less work for me. This is a free pgm that is recommended on several computer info/magazine sites, and is certified free of spyware, malware, adware. It's very simple to install/setup.
If you're not familiar with the HOSTS file, here is a brief explanation of what it is and does (click the link for more detailed info):
What is a HOSTS file?
If you're not familiar with the HOSTS file, here is a brief explanation of what it is and does (click the link for more detailed info):
What is a HOSTS file?
| QUOTE |
| The short answer is that the Hosts file is like an address book. When you type an address like www.yahoo.com into your browser, the Hosts file is consulted to see if you have the IP address, or "telephone number," for that site. If you do, then your computer will "call it" and the site will open. If not, your computer will ask your ISP's (internet service provider) computer for the phone number before it can "call" that site. Most of the time, you do not have addresses in your "address book," because you have not put any there. Therefore, most of the time your computer asks for the IP address from your ISP to find sites. If you put ad server names into your Hosts file with your own computer's IP address, your computer will never be able to contact the ad server. It will try to, but it will be simply calling itself and get a "busy signal" of sorts. Your computer will then give up calling the ad server and no ads will be loaded, nor will any tracking take place. Your choices for blocking sites are not just limited to blocking ad servers. You may block sites that serve advertisements, sites that serve objectionable content, or any other site that you choose to block. |
msequine - September 12, 2006 12:20 PM (GMT)
A couple of notes for anyone who downloads/installs HOSTSMAN.
Make sure you select OVERWRITE as the Default action.
And turn off the DNS Client Service
Make sure you select OVERWRITE as the Default action.
And turn off the DNS Client Service
WldHrt02 - September 12, 2006 12:38 PM (GMT)
Ruth, you are amazing. You really are "Oz" to us!! I've got to learn all of this. Time, time, I need more time. :rolleyes:
msequine - September 12, 2006 12:57 PM (GMT)
Thanks Steph, but the real Oz's are the folks who create these pgms, monitor the web for malicious sites, and keep the files updated. I just take advantage of their hard work (and I've been known to send a note of thanks from time to time or even make a donation when there are funds in my PayPal account).
BTW, you'd be shocked how much faster webpages load without the ads, etc.
BTW, you'd be shocked how much faster webpages load without the ads, etc.