Need Help On Learning How To Write Host Files?

[Rubicone]

I would like to learn how to write Host Files and have been unable to find any detailed, unassuming information on this. Is there someone who has a link or can post a direct response to this question of mine?

 

[esung]

are you talking about the the hosts files that convert the hosts name into the appropriate IP address? in Win9x under \Windows directory,
there's should be couple sample files. HOSTS.SAM for the TCP/IP, and
LMHOSTS.SAM for NetBEUI those files should be enough for you to understand. in order to have active host files, just create the file according to the sample files and name it HOSTS and/or LMHOSTS without any extension.

 

[Rubicone]

Someone told me that I could block ads and access websites faster by creating a host file and unsure how to exactly do that. I need additional information other than that provided by Windows to master this and also wonder if in addition to Win98 one can also do this with other OSs - Win2000 and Linux in particular.

 

[esung]

well.. in order to block the ads, all you do is redirect the offending server to a non-existing address, say the local host 127.0.0.1 but IMHO it's not worth the effort.. for some browser and some poorly created HTMLs, you'll have to wait the request to time out by itself in order to view the full document. and doing so you are also hurting the site (like AT and other sites) that hosts the ads. since ads/sponsorships will help to pay for the cost of the sites

 

[SonOfZeuz]

esung,
Some, no, most people do not like being bombarded with ads and find ways to block them. I use a hosts file along with Atguard to block ads. I have over 9000 adservers redirected to local host (127.0.0.1) and have NEVER had a problem with waiting for a request to time out.
Do a day of surfing and look at your cookies folder, you will be amazed at the amount of cookies from ad sites.
I also try to eliminate any ads in programs as i consider adware as spyware and an invasion of my privacy.

SAY NO TO ADS.

 

[esung]

SonOfZeuz: I use Opera 5 myself, and it has good cookie rules. so no ad cookies on mine.

I know that most people don't like being bombarded with ads, including me, but sometimes it's a way of life.. you got commercials on TV and radios don't you? those ads helps to pay for the services (web, TV, radio and others) that you are getting almost free...