computer help index
 
 
Search:
"Offering free computer help, hints, and tips to the Internet populace." Now with over 3,240 tips!

SpywareBlaster

Host File Snapshots

SUMMARY: Keep track of your Hosts file settings in case they are changed by spyware / adware.
 
Your machine's Hosts file can have legitimate purposes. Normally, if you try to access a network resource whereby domain name services (DNS) doesn't work, a Hosts file translates a verbal address (such as "server2") to an IP address. However, this file can be abused so that accesses to cnn.com, ebay.com, and paypal.com, for example, end up going to other lesser-known or rogue websites.

To help protect against undesired changes, SpywareBlaster lets you create encrypted backup copies of the Hosts file. Then, if spyware or adware modify this file, you can restore from the saved backup.

Note that if you restore a Hosts file from a saved backup and your machine is still infected with spyware or adware, the changes you restore may be reverted! Thus it is important to clean your machine of threats first, and then repair the damage.

1. From SpywareBlaster, click the "Tools" tab on the left.

2. Click the "Hosts Safe" tab on top. From here, you can:

a. Create a Hosts file backup by clicking the "Create New Backup" button. A new backup will appear in the list.

b. Delete an old backup file by clicking a backup and then the "Delete selected" button.

c. To restore your Hosts file from a backup, click a backup to restore from and click the "Restore Saved Backup" button.


 
Add: Del.icio.us | Digg | Furl | My Yahoo!
 
Discuss This Tip

Print This Tip

Get E-Mail When New Tips are Online

Return to the SpywareBlaster page.

RSS Feeds - Subscribe!
 

You want the latest tech tips and tricks in your e-mail Inbox - FREE? Type your e-mail address below and click 'Subscribe'.
 



( sample / details ) ( opt-out instructions )
 


 Free Offer! - Subscribe to the MalekTips computer help list and be one of the first to get new computer tips, articles, and download links! ( privacy policy )  ( opt-out instructions )
This page and its contents are copyright
©1997 - 2008 Envision Programming. ( copyright/disclaimer )

Home | Free Computer Help Newsletter! | Windows | Web Development | DOS and Batch Files | Removing Spyware
Digital Camera and Photography | Computer and Internet | Software | Microsoft Word
Computer Articles | About | Contribute a Tip | Link To Us! | Computer and Technology Links
RSS Feeds |  Contact Us | Advertising | Privacy Policy | Computer Help Forums