User Guide – Edit Mac Host File

 Do you want to edit the Mac host file? While setting up the latest web server or another device that’s going to be plugged to the internet and you want to put it through its speed before it’s live. Or else if you’re facing issues with adware or spyware networks. Then there’s an invisible file on Mac that helps. It is known as the Hosts file, and this is how to use it.

The Domain Name System

Input the domain name of a web site. Every service or web site, almost every device plugged to the Internet has a unique numeric address. The address tells all the other devices where it is — its TCP/IP address. However, the Domain Name System (DNS) interprets numeric addresses into something a bit more memorable or recognizable to humans. Like “www.imore.com” etc.

Initially, once you input a web address, your Mac pings a DNS server. Typically one configured automatically for you by your ISP (Internet Service Provider) just to find out the TCP/IP address of the server you’re trying to connect to. However, your Mac builds up a hidden cache file to make sure that those details later on after you visit the same site again.

The Hosts file

The Domain Name System and its linked cache is your Mac’s way of knowing how to get to where it’s going on the Internet. But there’s an alternative file that can be very essential. It is known as the Hosts file, and it can also be used to override the default DNS information.

There are some practical causes why you’d like to use the Hosts file rather than of just allowing DNS to do its thing. Let’s say you’re checking a development server you’re about to install. Also, you want to use its domain name rather than the machine’s particular IP address. Before the PCs online and accessible to anyone via DNS. You can then use the Host file. Simply enter the machine’s IP address and while using that domain name, your Mac will move to that device.

Also, you can use the Hosts file to work around or block spyware and ad networks after “zeroing out” their IP addresses. Just put 0.0.0.0 then the name of the domain you would like to block.

Read MOre: Edit Mac Host File

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