How to Locate and Edit Hosts File on Windows

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Where Is the Hosts File Located in Windows

The host files are stored locally on your computer within the C drive. To locate the path, follow the steps below.

Step 1:Press theWindows+Skey on your keyboard. TypeThis PCand clickOpen.

Step 2:Double-click onLocal Disk C.

Step 3:Navigate to theWindowsfolder.

Step 4:Scroll down and open theSystem32folder.

Step 5:Search for thedriversfolder and open it.

Step 6:Double-click on theetcfolder.

Step 7:Now, you can see yourhostsfiles.

Alternatively, you can also openThis PCand paste the following in the address bar:

Note that you may have tomake hidden foldersvisible to see the hosts file.

How to Edit Hosts File in Windows

Editing the hosts file in Windows is a straightforward process. To get started, you’ll need atext editor, and Windows conveniently includes Notepad as the default option. To modify the hosts file, follow these steps:

Step 1:Click theWindowsicon and select the search box. EnterNotepad, right-click the app, and clickRun as administrator. SelectYeswhen prompted.

Step 2:ClickFileand chooseOpenfrom the drop-down menu.

Tip:You can also pressCtrl+Oto launch the Open menu directly.

Step 3:Paste the following in the address bar.

Note:Switch the file type toAll filesinstead of.txt, the default file type.

Step 4:Select thehostsfile and clickOpen.

Step 5:Now, you can edit the host file. Once edited, clickFileand chooseSave.

Also Read:How to fix Notepad not opening

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Last updated on 10 July, 2024

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