Windows7 will not let me edit the hosts file and save it

Anonymous
2010-04-16T18:31:57+00:00

Windows7 will not let me edit the hosts file and save it. What must I do in order to save the edited host file?

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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Anonymous
2010-04-16T18:47:57+00:00

It's a built-in safety feature.  There is an easy workaround.  ClickStart ->All Programs -> Accessories.  Right-clickNotepad, and then click Run as administrator.  If you are prompted for an administrator password or for a confirmation, type the password, or clickAllow or Yes.

Open the Hosts file (from the notepad you just opened) , make your changes, and then click File ->Save

Barbara

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Anonymous
2010-04-16T20:43:01+00:00

You need to either take ownership of the file (Right click the hosts file, Security tab, and give yourself full rights), or open Notepad as Administrator and open, edit and save your hosts file from there. It's designed that way so some rogue malware can't come in and change that.

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  1. Anonymous
    2016-01-22T09:55:44+00:00

    Had same problem - was not able to save host file, even as admin.

    Solved by disabling anti-virus software.

    Looks like it was doing additional level of protection.

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  2. Anonymous
    2015-11-28T18:10:19+00:00

    You're awesome! Thank you!!!

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  3. Anonymous
    2015-08-25T08:03:33+00:00

    OKAY SO I FOUND THE SOLUTION

    First go to your hosts file. Do not open it. Copy it to your desktop. Open it. Edit it. Save it to your desktop. Then copy it again and transfer it to the etc folder. Replace it with the old file and your done. YOU'RE WELCOME

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