There is always a question raised and asked by many people that how to block certain websites without using any software ? Well, the answer is off course you can block certain website without using any software.

The answer is HOST File. HOST File is a fabulous file which access the local DNS server on our system. Bit techie.?? In simple words our system has a Domain Name Server  (DNS) which allows our computer to access outside websites. like google.com (which is a Domain Name) and our system’s Local DNS will request that website from outside our network.Host file can be used for certain pranks like:- Blocking annoying advertisement site, to create smart virus, to block certain websites etc.

Following is the Step by Step procedure to block certain websites by using HOST File:-

1. Host file is present in the C:/windows/system32/drivers/etc.  for windows XP. Access the host file and open it with notepad.

2.Host file contains some text like “This file contains the mappings of IP addresses to host names. Each
# entry should be kept on an individual line. The IP address should
# be placed in the first column followed by the corresponding host name.
# The IP address and the host name should be separated by at least one
# space”.

3. There is a IP address given in the bottom of the Host file 127.0.0.1 which is the local host (means this computer)is the standard hostname given to the address of the loopback network interface.

4.Now if you want to block certain website e.g. You want to block www.yahoo.com. Then all you need to do is write the localhost address (127.0.0.1) in fresh line in host file and then write www.yahoo.com. So now what will happen is when anyone tries to open yahoo.com it’ll be redirected to local system.

Now for some pranks you can use this file as well. Like if you want that if someone tries to open gmail.com then your computer opens playboy.com automatically. How to to that ?? Simple..Use the HOST file

Step 1:- Type the IP address of the website which you what to get diaplayed (To check the IP address of any website go in the Command prompt and type ping and website name. (e.g. ping www.google.com)

Step2:- Type the website name which when typed opens the Website which IP address you have typed above. Save the file and then see the magic….