How to Reset the Windows HOSTS File
The Windows HOSTS file is a critical system file that can be compromised by malware to redirect web traffic or block access to security websites. If your computer has been infected, resetting the HOSTS file can restore normal internet connectivity and prevent malicious redirections.
Understanding the HOSTS File
The Windows HOSTS file is a text file that maps website names to their corresponding IP addresses. Under normal circumstances, this file helps speed up access to frequently visited websites by bypassing DNS lookups. However, malware often exploits this file for malicious purposes.
What is the HOSTS File?
The Windows HOSTS file stores website addresses and can be used to speed up access to websites you visit frequently. By mapping website names (such as microsoft.com) directly to their IP addresses, your web browser can locate websites more quickly without querying a DNS Name Server.
When to Reset Your HOSTS File
You should consider resetting your HOSTS file if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Unable to access antivirus or security websites
- Web pages redirecting to unexpected or malicious sites
- Slow or blocked access to legitimate websites
- Suspicious network behavior after malware infection
How Malware Exploits the HOSTS File
Malicious programs frequently modify the HOSTS file to:
- Block security websites: Prevent access to antivirus company websites and security resources
- Redirect traffic: Send users to malicious websites instead of legitimate ones
- Hijack searches: Redirect search queries to advertising or phishing sites
Resetting the HOSTS File with Gridinsoft Anti-Malware
Gridinsoft Anti-Malware provides an easy way to reset your HOSTS file and restore normal functionality:
- Open Gridinsoft Anti-Malware
- Navigate to the “Tools” menu
- Select “Reset browser settings”
- Check the “HOSTS file” option
- Click the reset button to restore the file to its default state
What a Clean HOSTS File Should Contain
After resetting, your HOSTS file should contain only the default system entries:
- Windows XP:
127.0.0.1 localhost - Other Windows versions:
127.0.0.1 localhostand::1 localhost
If you notice additional entries beyond these default lines, they should be removed to ensure your system’s security and proper internet functionality.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information about the Windows HOSTS file and its functionality, consult Microsoft’s official documentation: Microsoft Support – HOSTS File Information
Important Security Note:
Always run a complete system scan after resetting your HOSTS file to ensure all malware has been removed. The HOSTS file modification is often just one symptom of a larger infection that requires comprehensive cleaning.
