[t11allen]

I installed a host file on my computer in order to control the activity of third parties/ family members who use my computer from time to time. It worked wonderfully...times have changed and I no longer share my computer with anyone. I wanted to start a blog. The host file would need to be controlled like a light switch... I need to know how to turn it off when I am working on the blog or testing it out .

Or

If I just deleted the host file/removed it completely from the computer would that unblock

pages sites and links that were previously blocked by the host file?? Then I could

reinstall the host file if or when needed.

[sudanec]

Hello,
the standard content of the Host file is following:

127.0.0.1 localhost

If it solves your problem, you can overwrite the Host file with this entry.

[BobJam]

Hey t11allen,

To turn on/turn off your hosts file (or, as you put it, to control it like a light switch), go here, scroll down about halfway, and download "RenHosts.bat":

http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hostsfaq.htm#Rename

It is a simple command prompt batch file that I think will do what you want.

Actually, there are a few other utilities on that site (scroll down to the bottom) that will also do what you want. I use the "RenHosts.bat" and am satisfied with it, but you may prefer one of the other ones.

[hewee]

You may still have to close down your browser and open it again to see the change take affect.

[BobJam]

Or press F5 to refresh after turning the hosts file on/off. I think that is on the web page I gave you.

[hewee]

I have had hosts file managers and you can disable a host file also and a change will be in effect right away but only for new site. That is any sites you was at after you open your browser the change at those site will not take effect till you close the browser and open it again.