Solved: Blocking website domains using hosts file

[pnggnp]

Hi,
I am trying to block all domains from tumblr using the "hosts" file, but I have not been able to do it. I have tumblr.com blocked using that file, but it does not block other tumblr domains, like for example, redwings.tumblr.com or whatever.tumblr.com or helpme.tumblr.com.

Can I block those domains using this?

127.0.0.1 *tumblr.com

If that does not work or if hosts file cannot block all domains, could anyone suggest a way to block all of them? I did a quick search and skimmed the techguy forums, but I could not find any posts dealing with this. I could have missed it, so if this has already been answered, I'd be grateful if you could direct me there.

Thank you

 

[gurutech]

Try *.tumblr.com

 

[Couriant]

or just tumblr.com

 

[hewee]

You need to close you Browser and open it again to see any changes.

 

[Triple6]

You may also be able to block domains in your router or in your firewall.

 

[Cookiegal]

The hosts file does not support wildcards, which is the one with the asterisk in front "*" to cover everything from a specific domain. You have to enter each one that you want to block separately so it's best to look for alternative ways to block them because a lot of entries in the hosts file will slow the computer down.

 

[pnggnp]

I see. Thank you, Cookiegal. I'll try to find other ways. And thanks for letting me know that a large hosts file can slow the comp down. Did not know that.

Thanks again

 

[pnggnp]

Thanks everyone for the replies. Appreciate you taking time to help.

 

[Cookiegal]

You're welcome.