Domain: hostsfile.org
Stories and comments across the archive that link to hostsfile.org.
Comments · 108
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2 members of the security community disagree
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
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#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
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Anyone can be a critic (not a chef though)
2 members of the security community say its excellent & host it:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
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#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
* Yes - My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites, as well as an exclusively 64-bit applications website too -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
(Plus, in 1 case so far - Complimented as excellent (by email from Mr. Burn of malwarebytes/hpHosts).
APK
P.S.=> So, like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE, Mr. "not Chef"?
... apk
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2 members of the security community disagree
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
Anyone can be a critic (not a chef though)
2 members of the security community say its excellent & host it:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
* Yes - My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites, as well as an exclusively 64-bit applications website too -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
(Plus, in 1 case so far - Complimented as excellent (by email from Mr. Burn of malwarebytes/hpHosts).
APK
P.S.=> So, like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE, Mr. "not Chef"?
... apk
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2 members of the security community disagree
2 of them host it, and say its excellent - write them if you wish:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
Anyone can be a critic (not a chef though)
2 members of the security community say its excellent & host it:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
* Yes - My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites, as well as an exclusively 64-bit applications website too -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
(Plus, in 1 case so far - Complimented as excellent (by email from Mr. Burn of malwarebytes/hpHosts).
APK
P.S.=> So, like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE, Mr. "not Chef"?
... apk
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2 members of the security community disagree
2 of them host it, and say its excellent - write them if you wish:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
Anyone can be a critic (not a chef though)
2 members of the security community say its excellent & host it:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
* Yes - My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites, as well as an exclusively 64-bit applications website too -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
(Plus, in 1 case so far - Complimented as excellent (by email from Mr. Burn of malwarebytes/hpHosts).
APK
P.S.=> So, like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE, Mr. "not Chef"?
... apk
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My program's not a 16-bit VB app troll
"Also while I already had this DLL installed, VBRUN300.DLL seems to be locked (in use) by the tool." - by Anonymous Coward on Tuesday August 21, @04:23PM (#41073071)
My program has no runtime lib dependencies since it's a stand-alone single self-contained executable written in Delphi XE2 Object Pascal 32 & 64-bit.
It's not written in Visual Basic (much less a 16 bit VB3 model for which VBRUN300.DLL is the runtime lib).
* For & about the topic @ hand no less... unlike your b.s. there, troll...
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#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com
---
* My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites... & in 1 case, complimented as excellent (by email).
APK
P.S.=> Like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE?
(Which actually exists in easy-to-use GUI form -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74 )
?
... apk
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Anyone can be a critic (but not a chef)
2 members of the security community say its excellent & host it:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
* Yes - My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites, as well as an exclusively 64-bit applications website too -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
(Plus, in 1 case so far - Complimented as excellent (by email from Mr. Burn of malwarebytes/hpHosts).
APK
P.S.=> So, like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE, Mr. "not Chef"?
... apk
-
Anyone can be a critic (not a chef though)
2 members of the security community say its excellent & host it:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
* Yes - My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites, as well as an exclusively 64-bit applications website too -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
(Plus, in 1 case so far - Complimented as excellent (by email from Mr. Burn of malwarebytes/hpHosts).
APK
P.S.=> So, like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE, Mr. "not Chef"?
... apk
-
Anyone can be a critic (not a chef though)
2 members of the security community say its excellent & host it:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site, my program's also hosted there @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - A Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com OR just see his site, my work's hosted there also...
---
* Yes - My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites, as well as an exclusively 64-bit applications website too (see below)... & in 1 case, complimented as excellent (by email from Mr. Burn of malwarebytes/hpHosts).
APK
P.S.=> Like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE?
(Mine, which actually exists in easy-to-use GUI form -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74 ) ?
... apk
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My program's NOT a 16-bit VB app...
"Also while I already had this DLL installed, VBRUN300.DLL seems to be locked (in use) by the tool." - by Anonymous Coward on Tuesday August 21, @04:23PM (#41073071)
My program has no runtime lib dependencies since it's a stand-alone single self-contained executable written in Delphi XE2 Object Pascal 32 & 64-bit.
It's not written in Visual Basic (much less a 16 bit VB3 model for which VBRUN300.DLL is the runtime lib).
For & about the topic @ hand no less... unlike your b.s. there, troll...
APK
P.S.=> #1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - A Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com
---
* My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites... & in 1 case, complimented as excellent (by email).
APK
P.S.=> Like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE (which actually exists in easy-to-use GUI form -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74 ) ?
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2 members of the security community
Say QUITE otherwise:
#1 - The malwarebytes/hpHosts site admin a person/site in the security community's hosting it (Mr. Steven Burn, a competent coder in his own right), said it's "excellent" in fact and has seen its code too... Write him yourselves should anyone doubt any of this -> services@it-mate.co.uk , or see his site @ http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
#2 - A Mr. Henry Hertz Hobbitt of securemecca.org &/or hostsfile.org http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html can also verify that this program is safe - write him @ -> hhhobbit@securemecca.com
---
* My program's good enough in both 32-bit & 64-bit GUI code to be featured on their websites... & in 1 case, complimented as excellent (by email).
APK
P.S.=> Like I said before: Where's YOURS, vs. MINE (which actually exists in easy-to-use GUI form -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74 ) ?
... apk
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You're welcome, & good news (security sites)
2 are now hosting it -> http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html + http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download , plus Start64.com (an exclusively 64-bit program hosting site only) -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
* Thus, so far, so good... she's a "hit" and, with the folks I really wanted to get it to in the 1st place since they have large following out there today (in our world of malware & online exploits galore out there now).
I.E.-> It's a program that has more than just potentials to do folks a LOT of good on several levels...
E.G.-> Especially in:
---
1.) Added/Regained speed/bandwidth
2.) Less electricity consumption vs. competing solutions like DNS + Browser addons like AdBlock (by blocking banners & more)
3.) Added "layered-security"/"defense-in-depth" vs. known sites-servers/hosts-domains that are known to serve up malwares (updated every 15 minutes here)
4.) Better reliability (vs. downed or dns poisoned redirected DNS servers)
5.) Protection vs. botnet C&C servers, bogus DNS servers malware makers use, & even better anonymity to an extent (vs. DNSBL's you feel are not right/just).---
& more...
APK
P.S.=> Perhaps one day soon, when Delphi Xe3 hits (which is soon)? I'll "port it" to MacOS X (I can already do THAT via Delphi Xe2), & Linux (used to be able to with Kylix, Borland discontinued it, BUT I could with FreePascal + Lazarus - I'll wait for Delphi Xe3 though)...
Anyhow/anyways - in ANY event?
Well... Enjoy the program, she's a "runner", & thanks for your time (+ patience since the trolls here downmod my posts on hosts files - my guess is many are malware makers themselves is why)
... apk
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Good news (2 more security sites hosting it)
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html + http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download as well as Start64 (an exclusively 64-bit program hosting site only) -> http://start64.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5851:apk-hosts-file-engine-64bit-version&catid=26:64bit-security-software&Itemid=74
* So far, so good... she's a "hit"!
One that does folks a LOT of good!
Especially in added speed/bandwidth, less electricity consumption (blocking banners & more), "layered-security"/"defense-in-depth" vs. known sites-servers/hosts-domains that are known to serve up malwares (updated every 15 minutes here), better reliability (vs. downed or dns poisoned redirected DNS servers), vs. botnet C&C servers, bogus DNS servers malware makers use, & even better anonymity to an extent (vs. DNSBL's you feel are not right/just).
APK
P.S.=> Perhaps one day soon, when Delphi Xe3 hits (which is soon)? I'll "port it" to MacOS X (I can already do THAT via Delphi Xe2), & Linux (used to be able to with Kylix, Borland discontinued it, BUT I could with FreePascal + Lazarus - I'll wait for Delphi Xe3 though)...
Anyhow/anyways - in ANY event?
Well... Enjoy the program, she's a "runner", & thanks for your time (+ patience since the trolls here downmod my posts on hosts files - my guess is many are malware makers themselves is why)... apk
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21++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES
Over AdBlock & DNS Servers ALONE 4 Security, Speed, Reliability, and even Anonymity to an extent:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions (in-addr.arpa) via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://ddanchev.blogspot -
Re:Upgrades do suck
DO THE FOLLOWING (after obtaining a good reputable solid HOSTS file, like mvps' -> http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
---
1.) Get ahold of the "Android Debugging Bridge" (ADB) & install it
2.) Mount your system mountpoint as READ + WRITE (as powerful of priveleges as you need is this)
3.) Using the PULL command, copy the file over from your PC (or even on your ANDROID if its there already) using PULL & overwrite the etc. folder's copy of HOSTS
---
* DONE!
(Yes, it's THAT simple vs. hosts-domain based threats which ARE THE MAJORITY OF THEM OUT THERE (because hosts-domain names are recyclable unlike IP addresses)... &, it works - you CAN'T be burned if you can't go into the malware kitchen!)
APK
P.S.=> Of course, your HOSTS file will need to have the domain/hosts name of the C&C servers, & that you have to obtain for this to work vs. threats like bogus servers &/or maliciously scripted sites. Here's some good sources for that above & beyond mvps.org (I noted them above):
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://www.malwaredomainlist.com/hostslist/hosts.txt
http://mirror1.malwaredomains.com/files/ (justdomains here)
http://pgl.yoyo.org/as/serverlist.php?hostformat=hosts&showintro=1&mimetype=plaintext
http://sysctl.org/cameleon/hosts
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=lastupdated
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=lastupdated
http://www.malwareurl.com/
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/ (updater for Spybot "Search & Destroy" & it fortifies HOSTS files)Those are some of my regular sources that are reputable & reliable for custom HOSTS file data populations vs. known threats online - I consolidate them here via programs I wrote that normalize/deduplicate repeated entries, sort/alphabetize the results, & change from larger + slower 127.0.0.1 (longer & loopback ops happen here) to the faster & smaller 0.0.0.0 (or even 0 on Windows 2000/XP/Server 2003): Enjoy!
... apk -
I defend against disk corruption with HOSTS filesDO THE FOLLOWING -- obtain a good reputable solid HOSTS file, like mvps' -> http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
* DONE!
(Yes, it's THAT simple vs. hosts-domain based threats which ARE THE MAJORITY OF THEM OUT THERE (because hosts-domain names are recyclable unlike IP addresses)... &, it works - you CAN'T be burned if you can't go into the malware kitchen!) No more malware, no disk corruption!
This concept & technique is VERY simple to understand, as far as how to install a custom HOSTS file, how to get data to populate it (& if need be? An Access import & "SELECT * DISTINCT FROM (tablename) ORDER BY ASC" type query & export can do the deduplication/normalization end even).
E.G.-> I've taught it to people who have NO CLUE in computing in fact, & they took to it like ducks to water - especially custom editing their custom HOSTS file with text editors once they understand what speeds them up (hardcodes) & secures them + how, by blocking out bogus sites/servers!
(And? Heck - They ought to like it & take to them fast! Especially considering a custom HOSTS file acts as a security layer AND more-or-less, an "online turbocharger" for speed too, for free! You already own one anyhow, with any OS that uses a BSD based IP stack (which IS most))...
P.S.=> Of course, your HOSTS file will need to have the domain/hosts name of the C&C servers, & that you have to obtain for this to work vs. threats like bogus servers &/or maliciously scripted sites. Here's some good sources for that above & beyond mvps.org (I noted them above):
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://www.malwaredomainlist.com/hostslist/hosts.txt
http://mirror1.malwaredomains.com/files/ (justdomains here)
http://pgl.yoyo.org/as/serverlist.php?hostformat=hosts&showintro=1&mimetype=plaintext
http://sysctl.org/cameleon/hosts
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=lastupdated
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=lastupdated
http://www.malwareurl.com/
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/ (updater for Spybot "Search & Destroy" & it fortifies HOSTS files)Those are some of my regular sources that are reputable & reliable for custom HOSTS file data populations vs. known threats online - I consolidate them here via programs I wrote that normalize/deduplicate repeated entries, sort/alphabetize the results, & change from larger + slower 127.0.0.1 (longer & loopback ops happen here) to the faster & smaller 0.0.0.0 (or even 0 on Windows 2000/XP/Server 2003): Enjoy!
... apk -
I defend ANDROID smartphones w/ HOSTS files
DO THE FOLLOWING (after obtaining a good reputable solid HOSTS file, like mvps' -> http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
---
1.) Get ahold of the "Android Debugging Bridge" (ADB) & install it
2.) Mount your system mountpoint as READ + WRITE (as powerful of priveleges as you need is this)
3.) Using the PULL command, copy the file over from your PC (or even on your ANDROID if its there already) using PULL & overwrite the etc. folder's copy of HOSTS
---
* DONE!
(Yes, it's THAT simple vs. hosts-domain based threats which ARE THE MAJORITY OF THEM OUT THERE (because hosts-domain names are recyclable unlike IP addresses)... &, it works - you CAN'T be burned if you can't go into the malware kitchen!)
APK
P.S.=> Of course, your HOSTS file will need to have the domain/hosts name of the C&C servers, & that you have to obtain for this to work vs. threats like bogus servers &/or maliciously scripted sites. Here's some good sources for that above & beyond mvps.org (I noted them above):
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://www.malwaredomainlist.com/hostslist/hosts.txt
http://mirror1.malwaredomains.com/files/ (justdomains here)
http://pgl.yoyo.org/as/serverlist.php?hostformat=hosts&showintro=1&mimetype=plaintext
http://sysctl.org/cameleon/hosts
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=lastupdated
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=lastupdated
http://www.malwareurl.com/
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/ (updater for Spybot "Search & Destroy" & it fortifies HOSTS files)Those are some of my regular sources that are reputable & reliable for custom HOSTS file data populations vs. known threats online - I consolidate them here via programs I wrote that normalize/deduplicate repeated entries, sort/alphabetize the results, & change from larger + slower 127.0.0.1 (longer & loopback ops happen here) to the faster & smaller 0.0.0.0 (or even 0 on Windows 2000/XP/Server 2003): Enjoy!
... apk
-
Hosts files = superior 2 AdBlock &/or DNS alon
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions (in-addr.arpa) via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php -
HOSTS files = superior 2 AdBlock &/or DNS alon
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions (in-addr.arpa) via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php -
HOSTS files = Superior (2 AdBlock &/or DNS)
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED (you already own one, & sources for populating one vs. adbanners + known malicious sites/servers are below (only takes work with a text editor to do so)):
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online -
HOSTS files = Superior (2 AdBlock &/or DNS)
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED (you already own one, & sources for populating one vs. adbanners + known malicious sites/servers are below (only takes work with a text editor to do so)):
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online -
HOSTS files = Superior (2 AdBlock &/or DNS)
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED (you already own one, & sources for populating one vs. adbanners + known malicious sites/servers are below (only takes work with a text editor to do so)):
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online -
HOSTS files = Superior (2 AdBlock &/or DNS alo
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://ddanchev.blogs -
HOSTS files = Superior (2 AdBlock &/or DNS alo
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED (and you own one already, & populating them from reputable & reliable sources is FREE too (only takes work with a text editor really)):
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online -
HOSTS files = Superior (2 AdBlock &/or DNS alo
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://ddanchev.blogs -
HOSTS files = Superior (2 AdBlock &/or DNS alo
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://ddanchev.blogs -
Hosts file = Better than AdBlock
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!)
Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc..
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://ddanch -
APK DROPS "THE BOMB" ON ADBLOCK &/or DNS!
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added "layered"/"defense-in-depth" security + SPEED:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads (not anymore apparently, lol:
Adblock Plus To Offer 'Acceptable Ads' Option
http://news.slashdot.org/story/11/12/12/2213233/adblock-plus-to-offer-acceptable-ads-option )
in only browsers & their subprogram families (ala email), but not all, or, all independent email clients, like Outlook!
(Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
* NOW - Some folks MAY think that putting an IP address alone into your browser's address bar will be enough, so why bother with HOSTS, right? WRONG - Putting IP address in your browser won't always work IS WHY. Some IP adresses host several domains & need the site name to give you the right page you're after is why. So for some sites only the HOSTS file option will work!
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://ddanc -
Here's a few good ones (premade)... apk
6 good sources for "premade" HOSTS files from reputable & reliable sources online:
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://www.malware.com.br/cgi/submit?action=list_hosts_win_0000* There's others out there, around a dozen more I use, but they're not updated as often as those above... & some are lists for DNS server DNSBL lists, which I have written programs for converting those over to HOSTS format here over time (they aren't updated that often though).
However, those in my small list above are tiny (thus, they won't "hassle" w/ the DNS local clientside cache in Windows' deficiencies I noted in my other posts here), & those in the list above are kept up to date quite often, usually weekly (some daily)...
They're reputable & reliable in that list above, & can "get you started".
APK
P.S.=> I integrate them ALL (& many others from my now 20++ sources) into 1 large file here with a Python system (multiplatform) lately, that alphabetizes the entries, filters out exception sites I don't want blocked, & "normalizes/deduplicates" repeat entries (which bloat the file needlessly)...
... apk
-
Glad it's working 4U (you'll like this I think)
Based on your success using a HOSTS file for added speed - you can also get more "layered-security"/"defense-in-depth" added as well, & here are some of the sites I use online to populate my HOSTS file vs. various online threats (all current, updated regularly, & reputable):
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://www.malwaredomainlist.com/hostslist/hosts.txt
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=all
http://amada.abuse.ch/palevotracker.php
http://www.malware.com.br/cgi/submit?action=list_hosts_win_0000
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/
http://www.malwareurl.com/
http://mirror1.malwaredomains.com/files/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://doc.emergingthreats.net/bin/view/Main/HoneywallSamples* There you go - that'll "get you started" on the road to not only FASTER websurfing, but also SAFER websurfing as well...
APK
P.S.=> Now, as far as "integrating" them into your HOSTS file?
Those sites offer various tools for that (I have built my own over time & you can even use tools like MS-Access for the hard part, deduplication for unique entry data via SELECT DISTINCT queries if need be, but I think the best tool offered on 1 of those sites is a PERL deduplication script (you have to have PERL installed though) as far as the tools offered by others from those sources.
Thus, You may wish to look into the FREE tools offered on those sites, if not compare them as well, & just for the purposes of import, deduplication/normalization, + more as well!
So - enjoy & continued good luck to you (as well as "salutations" for trying a custom HOSTS file & experiencing what you have, thusfar)...
... apk
-
GET MORE THAN THAT FREE (Using HOSTS files)
By far, & so can anyone else in 2 ways:
1.) Blocking out adbanners (which have been known to serve up malware many times in the past 7++ yrs. or more, no less)
&
2.) Hardcoding your favorite sites into it (so you avoid DNS lookups that take longer than 30-60ms or more to send back a host-domain name resolved to IP address, & also from possibly downed, OR "dns-poisoned" misdirected DNS servers)
Nice part is, it didn't cost ME "billions of dollars" to get a HELL OF A LOT MORE SPEED BACK FOR MY MONIES I PAY OUT TO BE ONLINE (as well as a hell of a lot better "layered security" to go with it), using HOSTS files...
APK
P.S.=> And, they're FREE, & data for them is as simple as pinging your fav. sites for their IP address (so you can LOCALLY "Self-Resolve" the host-domain name to IP address equation), & blocking adbanners has data widely available for it also (in addition to blocking out KNOWN bogus sites that serve up malware) for security too, such as this list of them:
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://www.malwaredomainlist.com/hostslist/hosts.txt
http://www.malware.com.br/cgi/submit?action=list_hosts_win_0000
http://mirror1.malwaredomains.com/files/
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://www.malwareurl.com/
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/By this point in time, since 1997 with lists of my own? I have 1.6++ million bogus sites/servers/hosts-domains, adbanner servers, & far more that's "not good for your speed OR security online" blocked-out, & my DSL connection runs MORE like a GOOD CABLE CONNECTION instead for websurfing, easily!
... apk
-
U KNOW I have 2 post this (HOSTS)... apk
Because of this single statement from the article here today, in regards to HOSTS files (which has been covered here by myself in points #4-#7 mainly below, & more, many times here @
/.):"The methods are: using a VPN service, using your HOSTs file, using TOR, using freely available DNS lookup tools, changing your DNS server to a non-US server, using command prompt, using Foxy Proxy, and using MAFIAAFire." - Dangerous_Minds/Drew Wilson of ZeroPaid http://yro.slashdot.org/story/11/08/07/2221245/8-Ways-To-Circumvent-the-PROTECT-IP-Act
HOWEVER, a HOSTS file offers you a LOT MORE THAN JUST THAT, for FREE (better online SPEED, bandwidth, & YES, security + anonymity (vs. DNSBLs)):
My custom HOSTS file currently protects me vs. 1,554,666++ (& growing every 15 minutes) KNOWN bad sites/servers/hosts-domains that are KNOWN to be either maliciously scripted, or serving up malware-in-general, plus spamming/phishing sources as well as botnet C&C servers.
How/Why? Ok, read on:
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added layered security:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads in only 1-2 browser family, but not all (Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
6.) Hosts files don't eat up CPU cycles like AdBlock does while it parses a webpages' content, nor as much as a DNS server does while it runs. HOSTS file are merely a FILTER for the kernel mode/PnP TCP/IP subsystem, which runs FAR FASTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY than any ring 3/rpl3/usermode app can.
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/down -
THIS is how (a better way)
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added layered security:
1.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
2.) Adblock blocks ads in only 1-2 browser family, but not all (Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 5-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
6.) HOSTS files protect you vs. DNS-poisoning &/or the Kaminsky flaw in DNS servers, and allow you to get to sites reliably vs. things like the Chinese are doing to DNS -> http://yro.slashdot.org/story/10/11/29/1755230/Chinese-DNS-Tampering-a-Real-Threat-To-Outsiders
7.) HOSTS files will allow you to get to sites you like, via hardcoding your favs into a HOSTS file, FAR faster than DNS servers can by FAR (by saving the roundtrip inquiry time to a DNS server & back to you).
8.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhack others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
-
I block their C&C servers via HOSTS files
HOSTS files, combined with firewalls rules tables (for IP address based ones).
It's easy enough to do, the data's out there by the TRUCKLOAD on Conficker and many other known botnets, sites/servers/hosts-domains that serve up malware-in-general (virus/spyware etc./et al).
Here are 15 or so that I use for anyone that's interested in protecting themselves in this manner:
---
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://www.malwaredomainlist.com/hostslist/hosts.txt
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://www.malwaredomains.com/
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html (Spybot Search & Destroy has an IMMUNIZE feature that works on HOSTS files here)
http://safeweb.norton.com/buzz
---
HOSTS files are the main route I took because they offer not just security benefits, but also speed benefits (very noticeable ones), & even anonymity ones to an extent (vs DNSBL)
HOSTS files, imo @ least, are even easier to deal with than a firewall (software OR router based) rules table if you ask me!
I did so again - Because of layered security they offer (combinations of Norton DNS (dnsbl filtering DNS vs. malware online threats & botnets), & firewall rules tables)) AND SPEED GAINS POSSIBLE TOO, via an easily edited route in a text file (which is all HOSTS are, a filter that works at the fastest & most efficient level there is, the IP subsystem).
I.E -> HOSTS are EASY to edit as well with any text editor also (which, face it, anyone can handle using) to add or even remove (or # symbol comment off temporarily even) data from its internal records list.
It works & on the SIMPLEST PRINCIPLE THERE IS for security: You can't get burnt if you don't go into the malware/botnet kitchen!
(I do so based on the principle of "layered security", especially vs. online threats...)
E.G.-> So, if one protective scheme fails, the others is there to kick in to protect you!
(They all work in combination w/ one another seamlessly-transparently... so, it's basically the same idea I suppose, as folks putting deadbolts, door handle knob locks, & chain locks on a door for 'triple layer security' really!)
It works & on the SIMPLEST PRINCIPLE THERE IS for extra speed, & bandwidth YOU PAY FOR OUT OF POCKET also:
See, nicest part about HOSTS files though, is that it's easy to insert other things (say for blocking adbanners) that speed you up online (via hardcoding your fav. sites into it, host-domain name to IP Address resolved, ea
-
My HOSTS updates "automagically" every 15 min.
Via a PyThon script, that does the following:
---
1.) Removes duplicates/normalizing the HOSTS file
2.) Alphabetizes it
3.) Changes the larger & slower 127.0.0.1 loopback adapter std. address MOST hosts files use typically, opting for the smaller & FASTER read in (and with no loopback, pure "blackholing" only) 0.0.0.0 address!
4.) It also removes any # comments that bloat hosts, along with "trailing nulls or blanks" many have that additionally bloat the HOSTS file.
---
Once she's read up into the DNS client cache (must turn this off for large ones like mine, currently @ 1,017,970++ entries strong), OR, into the local DISKCACHE (since it's just a filtering file for the IP Stack)?
She's fast as nobody's business!
APK
P.S.=> That's how I do it, & all that, & from these reputable & reliable sources for HOSTS file data vs. adbanners &/or KNOWN bad sites/servers/hosts-domain names:
http://www.malwaredomains.com/
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN
bad servers blocked):http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html
& it works... even many slashdotters use them, by the by, & my list of 20++ points in favor of HOSTS files quotes their results as well (for some "peer evidences" from the likes of your fellow posters on this website in fact, in addition to myself).
... apk
-
There's MANY valid sources you can use
http://www.malwaredomains.com/
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
https://spyeyetracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN
bad servers blocked)http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html
---
"You ARE a spamming nutbag" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
Oh, really? Do you have your:
---
1.) A PHD in Psychiatry to your name/credit?
2.) A license to practice it professionally??
3.) Years-to-Decades of professional experience in the field of psychiatry???
4.) A formal examination of myself in a professional environs to make your "instant snap prognosis" of my alleged mental state according to you, the "/. SiDeWaLk PsYcHo-AnALySt"????
---
No to ALL/EACH of the above????? So much for THAT "ad hominem" effete attempt on your part directed MY way then, eh??????
I.E.-> You personally just don't have the credentials to make your assessments in calling me a nutbag, period. In fact, you're libelling me in doing so... don't you KNOW that?????? There's LAWS against it you fool!
Instead - Why don't you attempt to attack the 20 points in favor of HOSTS files I put out??????
---
Oh, that's right - YOU ALSO SAID THIS:
"although you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
That's right I am RIGHT... always am!
APK
P.S.=> Take your pick... I just happen to consolidate them ALL, into 1 file here (via a PyThon script engine that does so every 15 minutes, removing duplicates/normalizing it, and alphabetically sorting them also, & changing the larger + slower 127.0.0.1 loopback address (slower due to loopback ops) to the faster & smaller + most compatible 0.0.0.0 blackhole address instead)... apk
-
Re:Your "script kiddie script" doesn't work fully
What is this zeustracker bullshit? Are you blind? Can you not read? The script gets hosts data from:
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.txt
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/Downloads/BadHosts.unx.zip
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/Hosts
http://support.it-mate.co.uk/downloads/hphosts.zip
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
which are all of the sources you claimed to be using. Have you actually resorted to bare faced lies now? -
Nothing wrong? If you like doing a shitty job, ok!
"There's nothing wrong with a few duplicate entries in your hosts file." - by Anonymous Coward on Tuesday January 04, @04:25PM (#34758352)
If doing a shit job is "ok by you", then fine. It's NOT with me. Your "script kiddie" *NIX shellscript would leave many, Many, MANY 1,000's by missing the fact it does NOT account for:
---
1.) Capital letter occurences (toUpperCase OR toLowerCase functions are what you are missing, my "APK Hosts File Grinder 4.0++" program, does not - this creates duplicates):
e.g.-> MySite.com
vs.
mysite.com
2.) Trailing # symbols added @ the end of HOSTS file line items entries (which mvps.org & someonewhocares.org are FULL of, unfortunately & it's dumb - adds size/bloat to the file AND creates duplicates)
e.g.- mysite.com #hijack
3.) I also believe the script doesn't knock off "trailing blanks" that some tools (like Access, since it can do a SELECT * DISTINCT (fieldname) FROM (tablename) ORDER BY (asc/desc), to also remove duplicated hosts files entries) leave behind, on exports.
---
However, IF doing a shitty job (apparently that's "ok by you") is fine with you? Then, so be it...
After all - I can't make anyone do quality work, I can only point the direction you need to take to "perfect" it (perhaps juasko can, which is WHY I pointed him to your shoddily written script in the 1st place (he does PERL work, makes sense he will be able to handle shell scripting, & perfect your poor quality job)).
---
"The performance hit would be completely insignificant" - by Anonymous Coward on Tuesday January 04, @04:25PM (#34758352)
Aha - you give yourself away: However, it's there, nonetheless, in ANY size of HOSTS file, & further compounds itself the larger the file gets (no questions asked).
Especially in larger hosts files, and your statement concedes it!
Same as Microsoft's OWN SENIOR MGT. had to with me also (Foredecker, the Senior VP of Microsoft's "Windows Client Performance Division", who posts here on
/., on occasion...)---
PERTINENT QUOTE/EXCERPT:
"Of course, larger files take longer to load." - by Foredecker (161844) * on Wednesday December 09, @10:34PM (#30384666) Homepage
FROM -> http://slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1467692&cid=30384918
(Which was in regards to MS taking away the ability to use 0 as a blocking "IP Address", which is SMALLER/FASTER/MORE EFFICIENT than using either 127.0.0.1 (the "loopback adapter address", which is larger/slower than them all, AND has a "loopback operation" incurred also), or 0.0.0.0, since MS "Patch Tuesday" 12/09/2008 - where the ability to do so was pulled from VISTA, Windows 7, & Windows Server 2008... which is funny, because Windows 2000 SP#2 onwards right up thru XP, into Windows VISTA it worked, for more than a decade!)
---
So - Read it, & weep... lol!
---
"unless you're a complete moron whose hosts file is already 14 megs (apk I'm looking at you)." - by Anonymous Coward on Tuesday January 04, @04:25PM (#34758352)
As of this a.m.? The file is 25mb in size, + 921,028 item line record HOSTS file entries blocked off vs. that many KNOWN bad sites/servers!
QUESTION:
I am currently protected vs. 921,028 KNOWN BAD SITES, from reputable/reliable & regularly updated sources for HOSTS files data shown below:
---
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.n -
And this protects you from basically nothing?
"And this protects you from basically nothing except some advertising." - by Anonymous Coward on Thursday December 30, @09:05PM (#34717748)
You're WRONG... see below:
---
HACKERS USE ADBANNERS ON MAJOR SITES TO HIJACK YOUR SYSTEM: -> http://www.wired.com/techbiz/media/news/2007/11/doubleclick
THE NEXT AD YOU CLICK MAY BE A VIRUS: -> http://it.slashdot.org/story/09/06/15/2056219/The-Next-Ad-You-Click-May-Be-a-Virus
NY TIMES INFECTED WITH MALWARE ADBANNER: -> http://news.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=09/09/13/2346229
MICROSOFT HIT BY MALWARES IN ADBANNERS: -> http://apcmag.com/microsoft_apologises_for_serving_malware.htm
2 MAJOR AD NETWORKS FOUND SERVING MALWARE: -> http://tech.slashdot.org/story/10/12/13/0128249/Two-Major-Ad-Networks-Found-Serving-Malware
ISP's INJECTING ADS AND ERRORS INTO THE WEB: -> http://it.slashdot.org/it/08/04/19/2148215.shtml
ADOBE FLASH ADS INJECTING MALWARE INTO THE NET: http://it.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=08/08/20/0029220&from=rss
---
By blocking out adbanners, not only do you get more SPEED, but... also more SECURITY, against malwares that have been shown to exist in some adbanners maliciously embedded & obfuscated code in javascript.
Additionally, by my populating my hosts file, nearly hourly, from reputable sites for that vs. KNOWN BAD SITES/SERVERS?
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)I can't get burned, if I can't go into the KNOWN BAD SITES' "malware kitchen"...
(Very simple, & it works!)
"Ever since I've installed a host file (http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm) to redirect advertisers to my loopback, I haven't had any malware, spyware, or adware issues. I first started using the host file 5 years ago." - by TestedDoughnut (1324447) on Monday December 13, @12:18AM (#34532122)
FROM http://tech.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1907528&cid=34532122
APK
P.S.=> Ah, I just gotta say it, as per my usual: "too, Too, TOO EASY", just '2EZ'... apk
-
Your "solutions" are FLAWED & IMPERFECT, fool
"I do so enjoy pointing out the total uber fail of your magical woobie so. I also personally consider it a public service to point people to solutions that actually work" - by hairyfeet (841228) bassbeast1968NO@SPAMgmail.com> on Monday January 03, @03:04PM (#34746796)
Ready fool? Ok, let's see how "perfect" your "solutions" REALLY are, below (not yours, you didn't create them - you merely USE THEM, like a trained chimpanzee that you are, techie boy):
---
MULTIPLE EVIDENCES OF ANTIVIRUS &/or ANTISPYWARE PROGRAM FAILURES + SHORTCOMINGS:
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2007/12/04/win_2000_virus_tests/
http://www.securityfocus.com/infocus/1839
http://it.slashdot.org/it/08/11/07/1545238.shtml
---
(Want more? Here comes, on their "heuristics" too)
ANTIVIRUS HEURISTICS EFFECTIVENESS EVIDENCES (i.e. - NOT 100% EFFECTIVE AND GETS FALSE POSITIVES):
---
The sorry state of Avira anti-virus heuristics:
http://grack.com/blog/2010/03/17/the-sorry-state-of-avira-anti-virus-heuristics/
PERTINENT QUOTE/EXCERPT:
"Considering that the risk of false positives is so high (and users might be trained to ignore other, potentially valid virus warnings), I'd say that users are worse off with this virus definition than they are without."
---
(As "1 example thereof", because the very word "HEURISTICS" equates basically to hairyfeet's very bitch here - guesstimation technology really, in that it uses "does it smell/taste/look like a duck" type tech, & it makes mistakes... period, see above!)
---
"You have 190,000 to 340,000 infected websites at this very moment and that list will change by the thousands per minute as sites are cleaned, new sites are infected, new vulnerabilities found, etc. Now for your HOPES file to actually be a REAL protection and not just a woobie? It will have to dynamically scale and keep up with that ever changing list of infections. Now even if you had twenty fingers and subscribed to every security list on the planet your HOPES file will ALWAYS BE OUT OF DATE and behind the curve. Always. Don't like those numbers? Use the ones from Securina, Grisoft, Symantec, any reputable security site. YOU CHOOSE. I have shown mathematically you are full of shit, now lets see you math that proves me wrong PETEY." - by hairyfeet (841228) bassbeast1968NO@SPAMgmail.com> on Monday January 03, @03:04PM (#34746796)
I just did above, vs. your "suggested solutions" lol... easily!
You're "shot down in flames", yet again, hairyfeet... TOO easily!
There is NO WAY THEY CAN KEEP UP WITH NEW MALWARES BEING MADE either... and you say they "work"? See above!
(They're "better than nothing", & I use them myself, for added LAYERED SECURITY - but, I don't put my entire FAITH ON THEM, as you appear to do!)
---
"As in you HOPES that one of the 300,000+ constantly changing array of websites that are infected doesn't happen to be the one you visit today?" - by hairyfeet (841228) bassbeast1968NO@SPAMgmail.com> on Monday January 03, @03:04PM (#34746796)
I use these reputable, reliable, & regularly updated (by the HOUR no less) sources to populate my HOSTS file:
---
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/ -
HOSTS files are superior to AdBlock &/or DNS a
This one's JUST FOR YOU, clone (disprove every single one of its points, as
,b>you failed badly here before on this very same note -> http://slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1755714&cid=33353946 AND, for your trolling me as AC here today http://slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1922942&cid=34687498 , and YOU FAILED LARGE on your end clone, with a bogus script that didn't work and I had to correct it for you here today after you worked DAYS on it no less, & I had to tell you how/where/when/why it failed, which you corrected for, lol, per MY suggestions no less), so here we go:---
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added layered security:
1.) Adblock blocks ads in only 1 browser family (Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
2.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 4-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
6.) HOSTS files protect you vs. DNS-poisoning &/or the Kaminsky flaw in DNS servers, and allow you to get to sites reliably vs. things like the Chinese are doing to DNS -> http://yro.slashdot.org/story/10/11/29/1755230/Chinese-DNS-Tampering-a-Real-Threat-To-Outsiders
7.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
http://blog.fireeye.com/
http://mtc.sri.com/
http://news.netcraft.com/
http://www.shadowserver.org/REGULARLY UPDATED HOSTS FILES SITES (reputable/reliable sources):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/ -
You're going to eat your words YET AGAIN
"For your magical woobie to work you will not only have to have EVERY site you visit that MAY OR MAY NOT be infected at that very moment in your magical HOPES file, but every single site they link to such as ad servers and your list has to be accurate to the minute or it is nothing but a woobie" - by hairyfeet (841228)
on Wednesday December 22, @02:24AM (#34638726)That "woobie" IS actually "accurate to the minute" here, & 915,000 unique entries of KNOWN BAD SITES/SERVERS/HOST-DOMAIN NAMES... simply because I update it from sites that contain information on bad sites/servers/hosts-domain names, & they update 4 or more times a day themselves:
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhack others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1898692&cid=34473398
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1896216&cid=34458500So, as per usual? So much for that from you!
---
"You have bet your ENTIRE existence on a 20 year old tech nobody uses anymore!" - by hairyfeet (841228) on Wednesday December 22, @02:24AM (#34638726)
I think you had best check with places like mvps.org from my reputable sources list above, & their forums people as a counter-example... there are 1000's of them there alone & there are other sites like they too.
Then again also? There are testimonials like this one too:
"Ever since I've installed a host file (http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm) to redirect advertisers to my loopback, I haven't had any malware, spyware, or adware issues. I first started using the host file 5 years ago." - by TestedDoughnut (1324447) on Monday December 13, @12:18AM (#34532122)
FROM http://tech.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1907528&cid=34532122
To further substantiate this for me (and as I said before here -> http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1916240&cid=34612834 I can produce more like that quoted testimonial above)... he, like myself & many others, due to using hosts files, good sense, & layered security concepts, DO NOT GET MALWARE (which blows your points here http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1916240&cid=34612834 away, with ease, right at their foundations!)
You still have not "debunked & disproved" my 20++ points in favor of HOSTS files here either:
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1916240&cid=34607890
Have you? Nope.
(Instead, all we get from you is easily disproven B.S. (via testimonials alone even), and foaming at the mouth hysterically utt
-
Time 4 U2 EAT YOUR WORDS HERE too... apk
"For your magical woobie to work you will not only have to have EVERY site you visit that MAY OR MAY NOT be infected at that very moment in your magical HOPES file, but every single site they link to such as ad servers and your list has to be accurate to the minute or it is nothing but a woobie" - by hairyfeet (841228)
on Wednesday December 22, @02:24AM (#34638726)That "woobie" IS actually "accurate to the minute" here, & 915,000 unique entries of KNOWN BAD SITES/SERVERS/HOST-DOMAIN NAMES... simply because I update it from sites that contain information on bad sites/servers/hosts-domain names, & they update 4 or more times a day themselves:
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhack others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1898692&cid=34473398
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1896216&cid=34458500So, as per usual? So much for that from you!
---
"You have bet your ENTIRE existence on a 20 year old tech nobody uses anymore!" - by hairyfeet (841228) on Wednesday December 22, @02:24AM (#34638726)
I think you had best check with places like mvps.org from my reputable sources list above, & their forums people as a counter-example... there are 1000's of them there alone & there are other sites like they too.
Then again also? There are testimonials like this one too:
"Ever since I've installed a host file (http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm) to redirect advertisers to my loopback, I haven't had any malware, spyware, or adware issues. I first started using the host file 5 years ago." - by TestedDoughnut (1324447) on Monday December 13, @12:18AM (#34532122)
FROM http://tech.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1907528&cid=34532122
To further substantiate this for me (and as I said before here -> http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1916240&cid=34612834 I can produce more like that quoted testimonial above)... he, like myself & many others, due to using hosts files, good sense, & layered security concepts, DO NOT GET MALWARE (which blows your points here http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1916240&cid=34612834 away, with ease, right at their foundations!)
You still have not "debunked & disproved" my 20++ points in favor of HOSTS files here either:
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1916240&cid=34607890
Have you? Nope.
(Instead, all we get from you is easily disproven B.S. (via testimonials alone even), and foaming at the mouth hysterically utt
-
Easy to beat with a custom HOSTS file
"1) Russian criminals have control over the wikileaks.org and wikileaks.info domains and are distributing malware. The current real wikileaks website is wikileaks.ch." - by Anthony Mouse (1927662) on Saturday December 18, @08:04PM (#34603730)
ping wikileaks.ch IS YOUR FRIEND!
Enter the result of that into your custom HOSTS file (Windows: %WinDir%\system32\drivers\etc OR on LINUX: root/etc OR ON ANDROID PHONES: by mounting the system mountpoint first, w/ read + WRITE ability, & then using the SDK tool ADB to PUSH the new HOSTS file into the etc folder there, overwriting the stock-oem model)
E.G.-> (from MY "ping" result, that would go into a HOSTS file for this):
178.21.20.9 wikileaks.ch
PUT THAT INTO YOUR CUSTOM HOSTS FILE (after pinging wikileaks.ch, because the IP address you come up with MAY be different than that which I come up with here).
That's doing a "whitelisting" in your HOSTS file, w/ the proper IPAddress - to - HOST/DOMAINName resolution, so you reach that site (and, you avoid DNS request log tracking in doing so also, bonus, because you NEVER USE THE ISP/BSP (or other) DNS server, period).
---
"2) Spamhaus has been telling people about (1). 3) The Russian criminals are now retaliating by using their botnets to DDoS Spamhaus under the flag of AnonOps." - by Anthony Mouse (1927662) on Saturday December 18, @08:04PM (#34603730)
Hey - They're easy to beat too (Russian criminals), & also by using a HOSTS file...
Albeit, this time, NOT FOR WHITELISTING A SITE, but, rather for "blacklisting" the sites/servers they use or redirect you to, for loading malware onto your systems!
(Between that, & using NoScript or turning off javascript period, you ARE PROTECTED (you really only need it for database accesses when you come down to it, to do "real things" (not playtime stuff, or eyecandy) usually, after all)).
APK
P.S.=> Reputable, reliable, & regularly updated sources for blacklisting data for a HOSTS file are as follows:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
http://blog.fireeye.com/
http://mtc.sri.com/
http://news.netcraft.com/
http://www.shadowserver.org/REGULARLY UPDATED HOSTS FILES SITES (reputable/reliable sources):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhack others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
-
HOSTS files are superior to AdBlock &/or DNS a
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added layered security:
1.) Adblock blocks ads in only 1 browser family (Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
2.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 4-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
6.) HOSTS files protect you vs. DNS-poisoning &/or the Kaminsky flaw in DNS servers, and allow you to get to sites reliably vs. things like the Chinese are doing to DNS -> http://yro.slashdot.org/story/10/11/29/1755230/Chinese-DNS-Tampering-a-Real-Threat-To-Outsiders
7.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
http://blog.fireeye.com/
http://mtc.sri.com/
http://news.netcraft.com/
http://www.shadowserver.org/REGULARLY UPDATED HOSTS FILES SITES (reputable/reliable sources):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhack others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
-
HOSTS files are superior to AdBlock &/or DNS
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added layered security:
1.) Adblock blocks ads in only 1 browser family (Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
2.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 4-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
6.) HOSTS files protect you vs. DNS-poisoning &/or the Kaminsky flaw in DNS servers, and allow you to get to sites reliably vs. things like the Chinese are doing to DNS -> http://yro.slashdot.org/story/10/11/29/1755230/Chinese-DNS-Tampering-a-Real-Threat-To-Outsiders
7.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
http://blog.fireeye.com/
http://mtc.sri.com/
http://news.netcraft.com/
http://www.shadowserver.org/REGULARLY UPDATED HOSTS FILES SITES (reputable/reliable sources):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhack others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
-
HOSTS files are superior to AdBlock & DNS even
20++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added layered security:
1.) Adblock blocks ads in only 1 browser family (Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
2.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 4-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via NSLOOKUP, PINGS, &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
6.) HOSTS files protect you vs. DNS-poisoning &/or the Kaminsky flaw in DNS servers, and allow you to get to sites reliably vs. things like the Chinese are doing to DNS -> http://yro.slashdot.org/story/10/11/29/1755230/Chinese-DNS-Tampering-a-Real-Threat-To-Outsiders
7.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
http://blog.fireeye.com/
http://mtc.sri.com/
http://news.netcraft.com/
http://www.shadowserver.org/REGULARLY UPDATED HOSTS FILES SITES (reputable/reliable sources):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhack others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
-
With a HOSTS file? You don't NEED to do that...
"Reading the report, it sounds like they were just testing the browsers' databases of known malware/phishing sites" - by gman003 (1693318) on Wednesday December 15, @03:51PM (#34565790)
Per my subject-line above? With a GOOD UP-TO-DATE HOSTS FILE?? You don't even NEED to do that!
I update mine daily, from these reliable & reputable sources (for blocking out KNOWN bad sites/servers/host-domain names etc.):
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
http://blog.fireeye.com/
http://mtc.sri.com/
http://news.netcraft.com/
http://www.shadowserver.org/REGULARLY UPDATED HOSTS FILES SITES (reputable/reliable sources):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhacker others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1898692&cid=34473398
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1896216&cid=34458500---
So, IF/WHEN you have a HOSTS file that has up to date blocking data in it? There's really no real need to do "browser based checks" of URL's, other than for "layered-security" purposes (which isn't a BAD THING TO DO, & it's the "current trend" for better security online).
Besides: IE, FireFox, and Opera ALL have methods for blocking out known bad sites already:
---
Opera has URLFILTER.INI (Spybot S&D populates this, alongside the Opera community doing updates to it too)
FireFox has an analog to Opera's filter file (which is what SpyBot S&D populates alongside a HOSTS file too vs. known bad sites)
IE has "restricted zones"
---
Still - the folks @ MS doing this in IE9 (which I use here)? Not a bad thing at all, for "layered-security"...
APK
P.S.=> Even the folks @ WIKIPEDIA aren't against blacklists like HOSTS:
---
PERTINENT QUOTE/EXCERPT (from -> http://www.theregister.co.uk/2010/12/16/wikileaks_mirror_malware_warning_row/ )
"we are in favour of 'Blacklists', be it for mail servers or websites
---
Why? Well, because they work... especially for layered security online... apk
-
I update my custom HOSTS file once a day here
Once a month! Do you really think that's enough? DNS records change all the time. Not all of them, but enough to make that list obsolete in a couple of days." - by icebraining (1313345) on Friday December 10, @04:13AM (#34512138) Homepage
Well - For blocking out known bad sites, that's "adequate" (that's mvps.org's schedule though - I do it FAR MORE FREQUENTLY, as far as blocking of sites that harbor malware exploits)...
However, the HOSTS file can be used to do more than just that though in "hardcoding in" your favorite websites IPAddress - to - domain/host name equation for more speed, & blocking out known bad sites is a part as I noted it above... so is blocking out adbanners (good OR BAD ones http://apcmag.com/microsoft_apologises_for_serving_malware.htm).
(See, icebraining - You're ONLY hitting on 1 use of a HOSTS file only here, in noting hardcoding the "IPAddress-to-Domain/Host Name resolution" into them for more speed, which also gives you the speed advantage of avoiding DNS request roundtrip time, & also the security advantage of avoiding DNS request logs tracking too - HOWEVER, custom HOSTS files are also a great layer of defense vs. being malware attacked by malicious scripts known bad sites have too).
Personally, I use mvps.org's lists for update vs. adbanner servers, & also known bad sites... I use them, alongside MANY others also (see below):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.abuse.ch/monitor.php?filter=online
Spybot "Search & Destroy" IMMUNIZE feature (fortifies HOSTS files with KNOWN bad servers blocked)And yes: Even SLASHDOT &/or The Register help!
(Via articles on security (when the source articles they use are "detailed" that is, & list the servers/sites involved in attempting to bushwhacker others online that is... not ALL do!)).
2 examples thereof in the past I have used, & noted it there, are/were:
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1898692&cid=34473398
http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=1896216&cid=34458500For blocking out adbanners &/or known bad sites? I do updates from the above sources, everyday (working on one now as I write this)
---
NOW: For more speed to my favorites for my top 250 "favorite sites" (like this one)?
The same program I wrote that does this as well:
1.) Removes duplicate HOSTS files entries
2.) Trims trailing blanks (which a SELECT * DISTINCT ORDER BY query leaves in say, Access, because no VARCHAR exists (like mySQL, Oracle, SQLServer, DB2 etc. have))
3.) Alphabetizes the entries in my HOSTS file
4.) Changes the blocking IP address used from 127.0.0.1 (std./stock loopback adapter address, slowest & largest read of the lot here), to 0.0.0.0 (better in speed/size for reads, & just as compatible as the loopback), to 0 (smallest & fastest of the lot, but, only works in Windows 2000 SP#2 onwards/XP/Server 2003 (used to in VISTA up to 12/09/2008 MS "Patch Tuesday", & it no longer does after that on Windows VISTA/Windows Server 2003/Windows 7))
My custom HOSTS updating program (APK Hosts File Grinder 4.0++) also "Pings" my list of my fav. sites (read up from a text file into a listbox) to keep them curren
-
They can't touch me, & here is HOW/WHY
From the source article, I obtained their server's domain/hostnames and nameservers, which I now have added to my custom HOSTS file... & blocked out, thus:
0.0.0.0 greatfull-toolss.ru
0.0.0.0 ns1.reg.ru
0.0.0.0 ns2.reg.ru
0.0.0.0 greatfull.ru
0.0.0.0 ns1.arbusi-host.net
0.0.0.0 ns2.arbusi-host.net
0.0.0.0 hellcomeback.ruThey're not going to get to ME, because I cannot get to they now... & what I can't touch, I cannot be "burned" by, simple!
HOSTS as blacklists, work! Some evidences & cases why you may be interested in implementing such protective (and speed gaining features too) measures:
---
15++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added layered security:
1.) Adblock blocks ads in only 1 browser family (Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
2.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 4-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via PINGS &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
6.) HOSTS files protect you vs. DNS-poisoning &/or the Kaminsky flaw in DNS servers, and allow you to get to sites reliably vs. things like the Chinese are doing to DNS -> http://yro.slashdot.org/story/10/11/29/1755230/Chinese-DNS-Tampering-a-Real-Threat-To-Outsiders
7.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
http://blog.fireeye.com/
http://mtc.sri.com/
http://news.netcraft.com/
http://www.shadowserver.org/REGULARLY UPDATED HOSTS FILES SITES (reputable/reliable sources):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download -
metrix007 disprove these points then on HOSTS
"Kid, you have no idea what you're talking about... You are strongly misinformed on several points. I can't be bothered to respond to you, (i.e. feed the troll) because I don't think it would be worth my time. You're obsessed, and not interested in rational discussion - by metrix007 (200091) on Monday December 06, @07:03AM (#34458496)
Ok, you FINALLY came back in, & NO: I am TRULY interested in "rational discussion", not avoiding it (as you obviously are with your 2 trollish replies here in this thread), so with that said? Disprove each of these 15 points on HOSTS files then:
15++ ADVANTAGES OF HOSTS FILES OVER DNS SERVERS &/or ADBLOCK ALONE for added layered security:
1.) Adblock blocks ads in only 1 browser family (Disclaimer: Opera now has an AdBlock addon (now that Opera has addons above widgets), but I am not certain the same people make it as they do for FF or Chrome etc.).
2.) HOSTS files are useable for all these purposes because they are present on all Operating Systems that have a BSD based IP stack (even ANDROID) and do adblocking for ANY webbrowser, email program, etc. (any webbound program).
3.) Adblock doesn't protect email programs external to FF, Hosts files do. THIS IS GOOD VS. SPAM MAIL or MAILS THAT BEAR MALICIOUS SCRIPT, or, THAT POINT TO MALICIOUS SCRIPT VIA URLS etc.
4.) Adblock won't get you to your favorite sites if a DNS server goes down or is DNS-poisoned, hosts will (this leads to points 4-7 next below).
5.) Adblock doesn't allow you to hardcode in your favorite websites into it so you don't make DNS server calls and so you can avoid tracking by DNS request logs, hosts do (DNS servers are also being abused by the Chinese lately and by the Kaminsky flaw -> http://www.networkworld.com/news/2008/082908-kaminsky-flaw-prompts-dns-server.html for years now). Hosts protect against those problems via hardcodes of your fav sites (you should verify against the TLD that does nothing but cache IPAddress-to-domainname/hostname resolutions via PINGS &/or WHOIS though, regularly, so you have the correct IP & it's current)).
6.) HOSTS files protect you vs. DNS-poisoning &/or the Kaminsky flaw in DNS servers, and allow you to get to sites reliably vs. things like the Chinese are doing to DNS -> http://yro.slashdot.org/story/10/11/29/1755230/Chinese-DNS-Tampering-a-Real-Threat-To-Outsiders
7.) AdBlock doesn't let you block out known bad sites or servers that are known to be maliciously scripted, hosts can and many reputable lists for this exist:
GOOD INFORMATION ON MALWARE BEHAVIOR LISTING BOTNET C&C SERVERS + MORE (AS WELL AS REMOVAL LISTS FOR HOSTS):
http://ddanchev.blogspot.com/
http://www.malware.com.br/lists.shtml
http://www.stopbadware.org/
http://blog.fireeye.com/
http://mtc.sri.com/
http://news.netcraft.com/
http://www.shadowserver.org/REGULARLY UPDATED HOSTS FILES SITES (reputable/reliable sources):
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
http://hostsfile.org/hosts.html
http://hostsfile.mine.nu/downloads/
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
https://zeustracker.ab