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Domain: mvps.org
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Comments · 538
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Re:Buy cheap Viagra?
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
Updated regularly, though in my experience ads don't get through for months if not years after installing - 99% of the ads you hit come from well-established domains.
If you start getting ads, it's about 2 minutes of 'work' to get update.
Oh, it's browser-independent, too.
Shit-for-brains.
PS - you want to turn off your ad-blocking system because... why?
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Re:Net Nanny
Ad blocking hosts file, I use it as an adult
Don't censor anything else IMO, gaining knowledge is good, ignorance is bad.
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Untrue: HOW to install & use hosts on ANDROID
DO THE FOLLOWING (after obtaining a good reputable solid HOSTS file, like mvps' -> http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm - use the smaller one there...)
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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
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* DONE!
APK
P.S.=> Yes, it's THAT simple... &, it works to get you better:
1.) "Layered-Security"/"Defense-in-Depth" vs. malware or malscripted sites
2.) Online speed & bandwidth
3.) MORE SCREEN REAL-ESTATE (blocking adbanners does wonders on each of those items)
4.) Better reliability (vs. downed or DNS-poisoned redirected DNS servers, especially this upcoming July 9th 2012 vs. DNSChanger trojan)
5.) More "anonymity" to an extent, vs. DNS Request logs OR bogus DNSBL's (DNS block lists) that you do not agree with... apk
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Ur off-topic, but here goes troll!
As far as blocking KNOWN bad host-domain names/sites-servers? Doesn't matter - they're MEANT to be blocked off & currently, I blockout 1,787,196 of those...
As far as my favorite sites I go to "hardcoded" into the hosts file?
Ahem - They're the "TOP 20" entries (I only keep 20 now) items in my hosts file, & read immediately!
(Especially once cached into memory by the local diskcaching kernelmode subsystem after the initial 1st read...).
Thus?
Heck - Even a B-Tree seek over 2++ million hosts file record entries wouldn't make a difference in speed...
(Do the math: You'll see I actually do about the same, OR LESS, seeks than you would in a binary tree seek over that many hosts file entries records)
All since I place my "favorite sites" @ the topmost spots in my custom hosts file so even IF the DNS system goes down (like is expected for infested users on July 9th via DNSChanger), or DNS poisoning redirection is done to DNS servers (even though I use the "best ones in the biz" as far as those that filter vs. known online threats, in OpenDNS, Norton DNS, &/or ScrubIT DNS in both my hardware router firewall + my Windows IP stack DNS settings)?
I'll still have the ADDED RELIABILITY of resolving those favs sites of mine locally, & be doing it FAR FASTER than calling out to potentially downed OR dns poisoned redirected DNS servers... by far.
(Blocking out adbanners does the rest, & gains users HUGE amounts of absolutely NOTICEABLE speed... see below on that much in fact from your peers on
Good luck disproving any of what's written above, OR especially BELOW... you'll NEED it!
APK
P.S.=> So much for trolls & their off-topic b.s., lol... & you KNOW I've just GOTTA say it: This?
This was just "too, Too, TOO EASY - just '2EZ'", as always, in dispatching off-topic trolls that are WEAK in their computing technical skills...
Lastly - I'd also like to "toss this one on" for good measure, in your
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20++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
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"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)
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRo
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Why? My posts on hosts do well here... apk
Some "examples thereof" in a 46:1++ ratio vs. your statement:
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20++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
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"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)
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS (2368736) on Monday December 12, @10:07PM (#38351398) Homepage Journal
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"Let me introduce you to the file:
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Why? My posts on hosts do well here... apk
Some "examples thereof" in a 46:1++ ratio vs. your statement:
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20++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
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"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)
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS (2368736) on Monday December 12, @10:07PM (#38351398) Homepage Journal
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"Let me introduce you to the file:
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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
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* 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!
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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!
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Your 17 FAILS list shows otherwise, lol... apk
"YOU FAIL everytime you write a single word: you keep using statistically irrelevant anecdotal evidence all along" - by Anonymous Coward on Thursday May 10, @08:52AM (#39952721)
Your list of FAILS (17 of 'em) prove otherwise here -> http://linux.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=2820335&cid=39952253
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"YOU FAIL: you cannot linearly parse 1.7M lines for text search in ns" - by Anonymous Coward on Thursday May 10, @08:52AM (#39952721)
Loading & parsing millions of entries in RAM doesn't take long @ all...
These folks below PROVE it below in fact (see sootman's post)
Plus, I've tested it by loading a record type from a hosts file (C/C++ structure analog in Object Pascal) in fact!
Yes - It takes LESS TIME than calling out to a REMOTE DNS SERVER ROUNDTRIP (30-100's++ of ms & may be DNS poisoned redirected OR DOWNED too) and, I tested with 2++ million entries here, & offered that test, here, to others to try!
HOWEVER - The point?
That is that YOU DO GO FASTER, SAFER, & MORE RELIABLY (vs. poisoned or downed DNS servers) BY BLOCKING ADBANNERS & hardcoding your fav sites & even better for anonymity to an extent vs. DNS request logs, period...
(Additionally - These fellows, your
SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
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"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @
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Your 17 FAILS list shows otherwise, lol... apk
"YOU FAIL everytime you write a single word: you keep using statistically irrelevant anecdotal evidence all along" - by Anonymous Coward on Thursday May 10, @08:52AM (#39952721)
Your list of FAILS (17 of 'em) prove otherwise here -> http://linux.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=2820335&cid=39952253
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"YOU FAIL: you cannot linearly parse 1.7M lines for text search in ns" - by Anonymous Coward on Thursday May 10, @08:52AM (#39952721)
Loading & parsing millions of entries in RAM doesn't take long @ all...
These folks below PROVE it below in fact (see sootman's post)
Plus, I've tested it by loading a record type from a hosts file (C/C++ structure analog in Object Pascal) in fact!
Yes - It takes LESS TIME than calling out to a REMOTE DNS SERVER ROUNDTRIP (30-100's++ of ms & may be DNS poisoned redirected OR DOWNED too) and, I tested with 2++ million entries here, & offered that test, here, to others to try!
HOWEVER - The point?
That is that YOU DO GO FASTER, SAFER, & MORE RELIABLY (vs. poisoned or downed DNS servers) BY BLOCKING ADBANNERS & hardcoding your fav sites & even better for anonymity to an extent vs. DNS request logs, period...
(Additionally - These fellows, your
SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
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"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @
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You have ZERO though (lol)... apk
"a few "testimonials" harvested on the Internet ARE anecdotal evidence. No statistical significance. Period. You're blown apart and you better stop trying to redefine mathematics, you don't have the level to do so." - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 09, @05:25PM (#39947339)
1st - they're more than YOU had. 2nd - They're from security pros, AND your peers on
(About they ALL experiencing more speed, better security, better anonymity to an extent vs. DNS request logs + DNSBL's, & better reliability vs. downed or dns-poisoned redirected DNS servers)...
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"1. out-of-date, proven facts, it takes host file users days/weeks before they get my (hypothetical) malicious website in their host file. Fact. Period" - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 09, @05:25PM (#39947339)
Which is FASTER than your originally proposed "solutions" in antispyware/antivirus. on updates (as those don't update every 15 minutes (and I can do it faster IF I wished for hosts file updates, as I wrote the code that does it)).
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"3. You cannot even think straight when it comes to host file, can you ? Joe-host-file (you) needs to visit once a webiste not in his hostfile. First computer scan the whole bloat (1.7M lines)" - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 09, @05:25PM (#39947339)
Ahem: Out of cache fast as is possible, and the same as it would be out of the local DNS clientside cache service
(Except the kernelmode diskcaching subsystem runs in the fastest mode possible as a driver for caching, & iirc, so does SuperFetch in Windows - either does the job!).
So, your point's what?
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"But unfortunately, nope, it's not not there so after this whole parsing, it has to make a DNS query to one of his favorite filtered DNS server (openDNS, norton DNS, whatever)." - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 09, @05:25PM (#39947339)
Again - this is the SAME DEFAULT BEHAVIOR OF THE IP STACK TO DO THAT, & SEEK ORDER FROM THE LOCAL DNS CLIENTSIDE CACHE SERVICE IN WINDOWS WORKS THE SAME IN THAT CASE TOO!...
My favs are @ the top of it, & all of the hosts' body is in cache memory due to the kernelmode diskcaching subsystem OR superfetch (speed of RAM)...
Again, your point's what here??
Face it - these guys "tell the tale" on THAT much:
"I use a custom
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for try
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XPI don't know about Vista and Windows 7, but Windows XP didn't include DVD playback support either.
http://marksxp.mvps.org/WindowsXP/dvd/playback/dvdplayback.php
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My turn 2 ask questions... apk
Wherever you see the term "QUESTION #", or a question mark? Answer & DISPROVE my points (which have backing from the security community a few times no less, & you stated they "laugh @ me", didn't you?)
QUESTION #1: Are these people FASTER or SLOWER websurfing w/ custom HOSTS files here (your
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E.G. #1 - The words of a security expert, Oliver Day (SECURITYFOCUS) CLEARLY disagree w/ you:
A RETURN TO THE KILLFILE:
http://www.securityfocus.com/columnists/491
Some "PERTINENT QUOTES/EXCERPTS" to back up my points with (for starters):
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"The host file on my day-to-day laptop is now over 16,000 lines long. Accessing the Internet -- particularly browsing the Web -- is actually faster now."
CLEARLY - Speed is a gain... Mr. Day note it as well & he IS a 'security expert' who does work for SYMANTEC/NORTON via their securityfocus.com site... & you said security experts were laughing @ me on my ideas on hosts files?
(QUESTION #2: Explain that too... is that security expert "laughing @ me" & my points on hosts files? Clearly, no...)
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QUESTION #3: Are these
8++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES FOR SPEED, QUOTED VERBATIM:
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"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"I'm tempted to go for a hacked hosts file that simply resolves most advert sites to 127.0.0.1" - by bLanark (123342) on Tuesday December 13, @01:13PM (#38357760)
"A hosts file certainly does not require "a lot of work" to maintain, and it quite effectively kills a LOT of advertising and tracking schemes. . In fact, I never would have considered try
-
Time 2 blow u away AGAIN, easily... apk
"3. "of which most folks have MAYBE 10-20 sites, are hardcoded & @ the TOP". Finally, there we are, you said it (took me 3 days to drive you there
IT IS FAST THOUGH and @ the top of my hosts file MAKES IT FASTER & A B-TREE WOULDN'T APPRECIABLY SPEED UP 10-20 FAVORITE SITES ENOUGH TO NOTICE IT FOR USERS - period!
However:
Users SURELY DO notice blocking adbanners, & hardcoding their favorites into a hosts file gaining them speed, screen realestate back, security, & more...
Again, some testimonials thereof from your PEERS here on
---
22++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
-
Time 2 blow u away AGAIN, easily... apk
"3. "of which most folks have MAYBE 10-20 sites, are hardcoded & @ the TOP". Finally, there we are, you said it (took me 3 days to drive you there
IT IS FAST THOUGH and @ the top of my hosts file MAKES IT FASTER & A B-TREE WOULDN'T APPRECIABLY SPEED UP 10-20 FAVORITE SITES ENOUGH TO NOTICE IT FOR USERS - period!
However:
Users SURELY DO notice blocking adbanners, & hardcoding their favorites into a hosts file gaining them speed, screen realestate back, security, & more...
Again, some testimonials thereof from your PEERS here on
---
22++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
-
Time 2 blow U away... apk
"1. host file does not protect against new threats, the most dangerous ones (AV protect us against old threat anyway), it will take days/weeks/months before you're "protected" again. host file is thus outdated before even being released" - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 02, @04:21PM (#39872377)
Oh, really? My 15++ sources for known hosts-domains/sites-servers that are KNOWN to be malscripted OR serve up malwares, say otherwise... And, every 15 minutes! That's FASTER & MORE FREQUENTLY THAN ANTIVIRUS UPDATES!
I update my hosts that frequently here... & what you can't touch, you cannot be burned by... period.
---
"2. your host file is overly bloated" - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 02, @04:21PM (#39872377)
There is NO BLOAT in mine... in fact, the program I created that members of the security community I noted say is excellent, does that for me.
---
"so either it runs slowly" - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 02, @04:21PM (#39872377)
First - it's cached just like the faulty local DNS client (except it works on larger hosts files w/out screwing up) via the local kernelmode diskcache subsystem, OR in Windows, SuperFetch...
Second - That's as FAST AS IT GETS EITHER WAY fool (for site access or blocks, via DNS clientside cache service, OR, diskcaches + superfetch).
Third - I'll let others from this very website speak their minds on what hosts files can do for your websurfing speeds (just by blocking adbanners AND hardcoding your fav. sites into them too (which also increases reliability and security))
---
22++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
-
Time 2 blow U away... apk
"1. host file does not protect against new threats, the most dangerous ones (AV protect us against old threat anyway), it will take days/weeks/months before you're "protected" again. host file is thus outdated before even being released" - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 02, @04:21PM (#39872377)
Oh, really? My 15++ sources for known hosts-domains/sites-servers that are KNOWN to be malscripted OR serve up malwares, say otherwise... And, every 15 minutes! That's FASTER & MORE FREQUENTLY THAN ANTIVIRUS UPDATES!
I update my hosts that frequently here... & what you can't touch, you cannot be burned by... period.
---
"2. your host file is overly bloated" - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 02, @04:21PM (#39872377)
There is NO BLOAT in mine... in fact, the program I created that members of the security community I noted say is excellent, does that for me.
---
"so either it runs slowly" - by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday May 02, @04:21PM (#39872377)
First - it's cached just like the faulty local DNS client (except it works on larger hosts files w/out screwing up) via the local kernelmode diskcache subsystem, OR in Windows, SuperFetch...
Second - That's as FAST AS IT GETS EITHER WAY fool (for site access or blocks, via DNS clientside cache service, OR, diskcaches + superfetch).
Third - I'll let others from this very website speak their minds on what hosts files can do for your websurfing speeds (just by blocking adbanners AND hardcoding your fav. sites into them too (which also increases reliability and security))
---
22++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
-
Very easy to find & VERIFY, troll
"Yeah, sure, like anyone is going to believe THAT
First, you can write Mr. Steven Burn of malwarebytes/hpHosts on it here -> services@it-mate.co.uk as to what I put up next from emails from he and Symantec, PLUS, direct mail from ArcaVir as well (which I will produce excerpts here of both):
SYMANTEC:
Alexander,
Vikram just got back to me to let me know Symantec have now removed
the detection for your files.Regards
Steven Burn
I.T. Mate
www.it-mate.co.uk---
* That's regarding a "false positive" on a program I wrote that malwarebytes is hosting for me (dealing in hosts file mgt.) which Mr. Burn says IS 'excellent' & he's only seen a build from 2-3++ weeks ago (& it's gotten better still).
---
Secondly: Here's a reply from another "false positive" from ArcaVir/ArcaBit direct from the tech who analyzed the program I noted above & admitted false positive:
---
From: PaweÅ Pieniak
Sent: Tuesday, March 13, 2012 12:14 AM
To: Alexander Kowalski
Cc: support@arcabit.comSubject: Re: ***SPAM*** PROOF OF FALSE POSITIVE (you folks don't seem to handle COMPRESSED EXECUTABLES correctly, see screenshot (po angelsku & po polsku bo ja jestem polak tesz albo od skod w Americze)... apk
Hello!
It`s a false positive. This false will be eliminated as soon as
posible.In a letter dated 13 marca 2012 (16:28:12) was written
---
Not enough? This was the BEST ONE, lol, due to some "ac troll" on
---
THE ORIGINAL REPLIES of both logicalscopy & pdubs, plus a general rebuttal of their points:
"I run Windows with a pretty hefty c:/windows/system32/drivers/etc/hosts file obtained from http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm. I update this file as regularly as I remember and layer it with appropriate add-ons in my modern web browser of choice, A/V, and firewall solutions. Basically, I realize that a large (generally static) blacklisting hosts file is protection against KNOWN threats (and only those with names!), and very little help against unknown and emerging threats (or straight up IPs). I must admit that I have not checked to see if there are stats regarding the attack/infection rates of new threats vs. known threats though I would expect that old, known threats probably still outweigh new threats simply due to volume. QUESTION: Is there any added value from running with a large (generally static) blacklisting hosts file when used with modern consumer-grade anti-virus and firewall solutions? Is it a redundant layer? I admit that A/V is generally a black box to me, so I'm not sure what kinds of signatures their engines scan for, and whether hostnames are part of those signatures. Although this seems like a free extra security layer, there are "costs" with manually updating the file, and the fact that I turn off DNS caching to prevent the whole file from hanging the machine each time it reloads itself (which can be frequent). (I've migrated DNS caching to the router instead which doesn't help me when I use my laptop elsewhere.)" - by logicalscope
ANSWER:
1.) Layered security/defense in depth - which you use but "oddly" have a problem in using hosts files also, & they're easily obtained as you've shown, regularly updated by reputable sites which you "strangely omit" as a FACT from said sources (There ar
-
Don't have to, I see the results
"You were doing so well, then said "rookie noobs". You have no knowledge of their qualifications" - by Sarten-X (1102295) on Monday April 16, @04:58PM (#39704093) Homepage
Same as w\ u: Disprove my points on the value of hosts files for added security, speed, reliability, and to a certain extent, anonymity (and I always do well):
"I run Windows with a pretty hefty c:/windows/system32/drivers/etc/hosts file obtained from http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm. I update this file as regularly as I remember and layer it with appropriate add-ons in my modern web browser of choice, A/V, and firewall solutions. Basically, I realize that a large (generally static) blacklisting hosts file is protection against KNOWN threats (and only those with names!), and very little help against unknown and emerging threats (or straight up IPs). I must admit that I have not checked to see if there are stats regarding the attack/infection rates of new threats vs. known threats though I would expect that old, known threats probably still outweigh new threats simply due to volume. QUESTION: Is there any added value from running with a large (generally static) blacklisting hosts file when used with modern consumer-grade anti-virus and firewall solutions? Is it a redundant layer? I admit that A/V is generally a black box to me, so I'm not sure what kinds of signatures their engines scan for, and whether hostnames are part of those signatures. Although this seems like a free extra security layer, there are "costs" with manually updating the file, and the fact that I turn off DNS caching to prevent the whole file from hanging the machine each time it reloads itself (which can be frequent). (I've migrated DNS caching to the router instead which doesn't help me when I use my laptop elsewhere.)" - by logicalscope FROM -> http://security.stackexchange.com/questions/9795/any-additional-security-with-large-blacklisting-hosts-file
APK ANSWER:
1.) Layered security/defense in depth - which you use but "oddly" have a problem in using hosts files also, & they're easily obtained as you've shown, regularly updated by reputable sites which you "strangely omit" as a FACT from said sources (There are many reputable ones beyond them as well) as well as easily edited by end users (text editors anyone? Easier than firewall rules tables or port filters & having to know things like IANA port lists etc./et al)
* Plus automating updates of hosts files? Cake: Setting up a simple PERL or Python script/program can do it (many are online for free) as often as you like & "automagically" (I wrote my own system 32/64-bit in Delphi XE2 to do it here, and it protects the hosts file every 1/2 second, via write protect attributes, even beyond UAC protection in Windows VISTA/Server 2008/7! It's being hosted by hpHosts/malwarebytes, another member of the security community, per Mr. Steven Burn services@it-mate.co.uk (which he says is "excellent" by the way) is another freeware that can)
2.) Again - adblock weaknesses now especially (by default now, it does NOT block all ads) - hosts files have NO SUCH WEAKNESS and are easier to edit than Adblock rules (scripted vs. text record entries, easily understood and documented in hosts files themselves in Windows or Linux by default)
3.) Browsers can easily be hijacked via malicious script along with their addons (via "web bugs", server-side - IF you don't know that technique, look into it)
4.) Browser addons are LESS EFFICIENT running in Ring 3/usermode vs. hosts in kernelmode/Ring 0 (since hosts are merely a filter for the IP stack)
5.) Hosts files can do a few things your methods (adblock, firewalls, dns servers) can't like:
* A. Speed up access to your fav sites LOCALLY, especially vs. remote dns servers (speed of HDD = 7-10ms in modern disks, & MANY
-
"ULTIMATE BLOWOUT" of ur wannabe security gurus
THE ORIGINAL REPLIES of both logicalscopy & pdubs, plus a general rebuttal of their points here http://security.stackexchange.com/questions/13796/i-cant-post-corrections-to-an-erroneous-set-of-questions-answers-here
"I run Windows with a pretty hefty c:/windows/system32/drivers/etc/hosts file obtained from http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm. I update this file as regularly as I remember and layer it with appropriate add-ons in my modern web browser of choice, A/V, and firewall solutions. Basically, I realize that a large (generally static) blacklisting hosts file is protection against KNOWN threats (and only those with names!), and very little help against unknown and emerging threats (or straight up IPs). I must admit that I have not checked to see if there are stats regarding the attack/infection rates of new threats vs. known threats though I would expect that old, known threats probably still outweigh new threats simply due to volume. QUESTION: Is there any added value from running with a large (generally static) blacklisting hosts file when used with modern consumer-grade anti-virus and firewall solutions? Is it a redundant layer? I admit that A/V is generally a black box to me, so I'm not sure what kinds of signatures their engines scan for, and whether hostnames are part of those signatures. Although this seems like a free extra security layer, there are "costs" with manually updating the file, and the fact that I turn off DNS caching to prevent the whole file from hanging the machine each time it reloads itself (which can be frequent). (I've migrated DNS caching to the router instead which doesn't help me when I use my laptop elsewhere.)" - by logicalscope FROM -> http://security.stackexchange.com/questions/9795/any-additional-security-with-large-blacklisting-hosts-file
1st set of ANSWERS THAT BLEW THEIR mere "techie/networker" ERRONEOUS LEVEL OF UNDERSTANDING OFF THE WALL EASILY:
1.) Layered security/defense in depth - which you use but "oddly" have a problem in using hosts files also, & they're easily obtained as you've shown, regularly updated by reputable sites which you "strangely omit" as a FACT from said sources (There are many reputable ones beyond them as well) as well as easily edited by end users (text editors anyone? Easier than firewall rules tables or port filters & having to know things like IANA port lists etc./et al)
* Plus automating updates of hosts files? Cake: Setting up a simple PERL or Python script/program can do it (many are online for free) as often as you like & "automagically" (I wrote my own system 32/64-bit in Delphi XE2 to do it here, and it protects the hosts file every 1/2 second, via write protect attributes, even beyond UAC protection in Windows VISTA/Server 2008/7! It's being hosted by hpHosts/malwarebytes, another member of the security community, per Mr. Steven Burn services@it-mate.co.uk (which he says is "excellent" by the way) is another freeware that can)
2.) Again - adblock weaknesses now especially (by default now, it does NOT block all ads) - hosts files have NO SUCH WEAKNESS and are easier to edit than Adblock rules (scripted vs. text record entries, easily understood and documented in hosts files themselves in Windows or Linux by default)
3.) Browsers can easily be hijacked via malicious script along with their addons (via "web bugs", server-side - IF you don't know that technique, look into it)
4.) Browser addons are LESS EFFICIENT running in Ring 3/usermode vs. hosts in kernelmode/Ring 0 (since hosts are merely a filter for the IP stack)
5.) Hosts files can do a few things your methods (adblock, firewalls, dns servers) can't l
-
Re:Value
Google inserting advertising content into YouTube streams is, IMO, much more nefarious and difficult to block.
Just use a comprehensive hosts file. I put together a hosts file from
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
and
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
these two sites (I chose them randomly one day) and I have never once seen a YouTube pre-video advert. In fact, I'm so used to not seeing them that I'm always -- always -- surprised to see them when I'm at a friends house or another computer other than my own.
HTH
-
Assuming you're not just "trolling" (u are)?
Upgrade to a newer version of Windows Server: That's not even supported anymore, or patched for, either (for many years).
That's your biggest problem...
(Of course, that's also assuming you are even being straight with me here (and you're probably not)).
* That's a start though!
(Even though I am fairly certain you're attempting to 'troll' me, which IS rather 'weak').
APK
P.S.=> As to what hosts files can do for you, and what I think of them for added speed, security, and even extra 'anonymity' to a degree?
Well, ok - Instead of ME talking? I'll let your own
---
22++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
-
Assuming you're not just "trolling" (u are)?
Upgrade to a newer version of Windows Server: That's not even supported anymore, or patched for, either (for many years).
That's your biggest problem...
(Of course, that's also assuming you are even being straight with me here (and you're probably not)).
* That's a start though!
(Even though I am fairly certain you're attempting to 'troll' me, which IS rather 'weak').
APK
P.S.=> As to what hosts files can do for you, and what I think of them for added speed, security, and even extra 'anonymity' to a degree?
Well, ok - Instead of ME talking? I'll let your own
---
22++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
-
Ur peers @ /. disagree w/ U (54:1++ ratio)
22++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS
-
Ur peers @ /. disagree w/ U (54:1++ ratio)
22++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
"this is not a troll, which hosts file source you recommend nowadays? it's a really handy method for speeding up web and it works." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday March 22, @08:07PM (#39446525) Homepage Journal
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"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)
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS
-
Others here disagree w/ U (40++:1 ratio)... apk
"Hosts files are terrible." - by Chase Husky (1131573) on Wednesday March 28, @09:14AM (#39495477) Homepage
Many others disagree with you here: 20++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"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)
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS (2368736) on Monday December 12, @10:07PM (#38351398) Homepage Journal
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
-
Others here disagree w/ U (40++:1 ratio)... apk
"Hosts files are terrible." - by Chase Husky (1131573) on Wednesday March 28, @09:14AM (#39495477) Homepage
Many others disagree with you here: 20++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"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)
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS (2368736) on Monday December 12, @10:07PM (#38351398) Homepage Journal
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSoldier (67820) on Tuesday December 13, @12:04PM (#38356782)
-
YOU ARE CORRECT as it gets... apk
hpHOSTS (best one, extremely comprehensive, & CLEAN, not bloated with crap):
http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
OR
mvps.org's:
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
I like them both, but... the latter BLOATS their stuff TOO MUCH with b.s. comments & uses a less than efficient format in blocking addresses, which I proved here the other day to a network security instructor on the grounds noted in each case (funny part is, he asked for clarification & response, I gave it, asking the same... no show! "gosh" I wonder why, lol, not!).
There's others too, but... nobody makes them "std." as to blocking addresses use, pad fields, comment bloat & FAR more...
Which is, again, why I built an app for folks like yourself to use to gain as you noted & I note below... took me a month to refactor, optimize & rewrite it (again, 5th time now, lol).
It helps, in MANY ways too for hosts... not just blocking out adbanners (stealing bandwidth/speed you pay for, & infecting folks even more than a 'few times' the past decade++ now in fact), or even speeding up hosts-domain to IP address resolution for your favs (which also proofs you vs. downed or DNS redirected poisoned DNS servers but also vs. DNS request logs & even DNSBLS)... but for layered security and to an extent? "anonymity" vs. trackings too.
I could go on, but since you know what you know? I don't have to. That was more for others' reading's benefit...
Anyhow/anyways:
That which you state?
That is WHY I built the app I did, & submitted it to malwarebytes/hpHOSTS above...
For free/"outta the goodness of my heart", lol, for others, and in 64-bit too, because as YOU note? It works...
See - I've tested it against all kinds of others, & it's better + more accurate, because its more "automagic" & doesn't require anything more than 4 button clicks to build your OWN hosts file from the "best of the best" out there! Does more too, write protects itself (vs infestation by bytesize check @ startup & every 1/2 second) & the HOSTS file too, properly scanned by registry database path verification of location & more...
(1st of its kind on that note, afaik, in GUI @ least, + 64-bit, though it also ships with a 32-bit model too... which IS what folks want & use mostly).
Heck- I could AND HAVE built it to be faster in character mode, but folks don't like that!
(I.E.-> I have a model that way built in Object Pascal now, that is LITERALLY 10x as fast as the one I submitted to the 1st source I noted).
Ahhh, I am babbling now, sorry... just excited to see that even the guys making "the best" hosts file like my work (Mr. Burn a competent coder too imo) said "it's excellent work"... good enough for me, hopefully, others too.
That's the idea: Where I went to college? They "pound a great idea into you": Do something good for everyone once you get this education, help make the world a better place.
APK
P.S.=> It was "quite the battle" vs. Mr. H. Hobbitt (another hosts file maker) who put it through the JOTTI online virus test where it passed 19/21 scanners (3 more here too not on said test run from LINUX machines), but COMODO & ArcaVir/arcabit said it was "bad"...
So... I had to prove them wrong, how/why & more, not easy, but done in 2 days time...
See - sometimes, good as those guys are, like Dr. Mark & my correcting HIS wares even which I noted here? Make mistakes & probably due to being "hustled" by mgt. on quotas etc./et al (we all know THAT feeilng working for others)... apk
-
It's biting off what I get ribbed on here for
HOW TO INSTALL A CUSTOM HOSTS FILE ON AN ANDROID SMARTPHONE:
DO THE FOLLOWING (after obtaining a good reputable solid HOSTS file, like mvps' -> http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm ) OR better yet, HpHosts -> http://hosts-file.net/?s=Download
---
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... &, it works!
No 3rd party apps required @ all/whatsoever + completely free also since folks already have one on ANDROID smartphones!
(Other types of smartphones too. I simply note android because last I knew of, it even surpassed iphones out there in terms of marketshare).
As to my subject-line?
Well, there's a pack of idiots around here that calls me "hosts file troll", but they NEVER ONCE MANAGE TO DISPROVE FACTS I PUT OUT REGARDING HOSTS FILES... (20 of them vs. AdBlock &/or DNS Servers alone in fact).
Not once, for years now, in fact.
Who are they?
No doubt malware makers themselves, or webmasters losing out on adbanner views!
(Too bad the latter don't admit they suck up CPU time, RAM, & other forms of I/O a user pays for, including electric power, as well as bandwidth & speed a user pays for out-of-pocket... & adbanners loaded with malicious script? Tons of that happened over time now... want proof? Just ask, I'll put out a TINY sampling of it (dozens)...
Who else agrees with me on it?
Mr. Stephen Burn of hpHosts, & here is a quote from he on it as we discussed this this week in fact, and how the idiot trolls around here tried to libel & mock myself calling me "hosts file troll", when hosts files are for helping folks get FAR better speed, security, and even anonymity to an extent (vs. DNSBL + DNS request logs):
---
"I don't actually get time for many sites such as slashdot anymore, but certainly see my fair share of trolls on the MyWot (Web of Trust (I'm a moderator there, and MyWot includes hpHosts in their "ratings")) and Malwarebytes forums, and you're correct -it's always either users of malicious software/sites, or the owners of such, that are doing it."
---
It doesn't take a brain to realize that anyone harassing, stalking, & libelling myself as they have here repeatedly to no avail (they've never disproved points I make about hosts files benefits for users of them I extolled above after all), is done by those who gain by people NOT using them.
(That came about after I submitted a 64-bit hosts file mgt. program to he is why, another story in & of itself where I proved COMODO & Arcabit have problems with exe compressors & produce false positives)
APK
P.S.=> You MIGHT have to run a Dos-2-Unix program over your custom HOSTS file, per the above directions for installation into an ANDROID smartphone, & especially IF you didn't import one built for *NIX, but that's about it (since ANDROID is a Linux & thus, yes, a *NIX variant essentially)... apk speed a user pays for out-of-pocket...
-
A custom hosts file can do it FOR FREE
HOW TO INSTALL A CUSTOM HOSTS FILE ON AN ANDROID SMARTPHONE:
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... &, it works!
Then again, you KNOW that too, don't you, erroneOus (or, should I say Jorge Bastida)? Sure you do... & no 3rd party apps required @ all/whatsoever + completely free also since folks already have one on ANDROID smartphones (& others, I simply note android because last I knew of, it even surpassed iphones out there in terms of marketshare).
APK
P.S.=> You MIGHT have to run a Dos-2-Unix program over your custom HOSTS file, IF you didn't import one built for *NIX, but that's about it (since ANDROID is a Linux & thus, yes, a *NIX variant essentially)... apk
-
Caught wind of this (thanks for email Tim)
HOSTS files work. In fact, here's a slew of people from
Just so our "peers" here will make you look a fool this time, not just myself & along with the technical shellacking you've received last night, and RAN from, you noob:
---
18++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"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)
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS (2368736) on Monday December 12, @10:07PM (#38351398) Homepage Journal
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and
-
Re:i told them to forget me
> You can't escape The Google.
Huh, you DO know about to block most of that crap, right??
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
or
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
doubleclick.com? BLOCKED.
Google-Analytics? BLOCKED.Problem solved.
-
Re:And people ask me why I don't use Chrome
another cool trick is to set up a host file.
-
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
-
Re:Some people don't need this
I use Adblockplus, Noscript, and Betterprivacy
Me as well and also http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm and https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/stylish/
When I use somebody elses PC to do some surfing it amazes me that people still would want to spend time online. Sure, you have a 30 insch screen, but the amount of content is the same as your very old 15 inch one.
-
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 -
Re:Next step...
> I didn't click on "punch the monkey" ads, blindly click through installers which would install 5,000 toolbars in my web browse
> Wow, that was so hard.For most people, sadly, yes.
I've found updating your Windows / OSX hosts with one of these two clean DNS entries also helps to minimize the damage on computers used by family members...
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ -
Re:Me too (but 4 DIFF. reasons)... apk
I'm glad I read his post. I downloaded this hosts file and am surfing faster already http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm so your opinion is worthless compared to my results. You can call the guy a loon but if that's crazy I don't want to be sane.
-
Cached local speed = faster than DNS lookup return
"Large hosts files absolutely slow down lookups." - by sexconker (1179573) on Wednesday January 04, @12:55PM (#38586810)
These peers of yours @
---
18++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"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)
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS (2368736) on Monday December 12, @10:07PM (#38351398) Homepage Journal
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSol
-
Cached local speed = faster than DNS lookup return
"Large hosts files absolutely slow down lookups." - by sexconker (1179573) on Wednesday January 04, @12:55PM (#38586810)
These peers of yours @
---
18++ SLASHDOT USERS EXPERIENCING SUCCESS USING HOSTS FILES QUOTED VERBATIM:
---
"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)
"I use a custom
"I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster." - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17, @11:20AM (#38086752) Homepage Journal
"Better than an ad blocker, imo. Hosts file entries: http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm " - by TempestRose (1187397) on Tuesday March 15, @12:53PM (#35493274)
"^^ One of the many reasons why I like the user-friendliness of the
"They've been on my HOSTS block for years" - by ScottCooperDotNet (929575) on Thursday August 05 2010, @01:52AM (#33147212)
"I'm currently only using my hosts file to block pheedo ads from showing up in my RSS feeds and causing them to take forever to load. Regardless of its original intent, it's still a valid tool, when used judiciously." - by Bill Dog (726542) on Monday April 25, @02:16AM (#35927050) Homepage Journal
"you're right about hosts files" - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26, @01:21PM (#36252958) Homepage
"APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment." - by Culture20 (968837) on Thursday November 17, @10:08AM (#38085666)
"I also use the MVPS ad blocking hosts file." - by Rick17JJ (744063) on Wednesday January 19, @03:04PM (#34931482)
"I use ad-Block and a hostfile" - by Ol Olsoc (1175323) on Tuesday March 01, @10:11AM (#35346902)
"I do use Hosts, for a couple fake domains I use." - by icebraining (1313345) on Saturday December 11, @09:34AM (#34523012) Homepage
"It's a good write up on something everybody should use, why you were modded down is beyond me. Using a HOSTS file, ADblock is of no concern and they can do what they want." - by Trax3001BBS (2368736) on Monday December 12, @10:07PM (#38351398) Homepage Journal
"I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad. i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW" - by UnknownSol
-
TweakUI, no Breadcrumbs, usable control panelWhen TweakUI went away for Win7, I got annoyed. Doubly so now that files and paths in the Win7 explorer are filled with space-wasting "breadcrumbs". Triply so now that (in Win7) I can't just say "Control Panel > Foo > Bar", but have to memorize some sort of unique name for each applet in order to access it quickly. The web-appification of control panel in Win7 doesn't add much to the annoyance of performing administrative tasks, but it hugely complicates the documentation of administrative tasks.
At least with focus-follows-mouse, there's a X-mouse workaround involving a couple of registry edits, but I'm dreading Win8.
Every time Windows "evolves", I'm forced to add another 10-15 minutes to undo the latest round of dumbing-down.
-
Re:They got paid for this...
> If ads were all friendly I wouldn't block any of them. I think many (most?) people probably feel the same way.
Um, no, as in DO. NOT. WANT> I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad.
i.e. http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/ and http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm FTW
Well they are not friendly..In this case,it tool a law to make them "friendlier "on tv in the USA. http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-57342486-503544/govt-asks-viewers-to-police-too-loud-tv-ads/ "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Tuesday voted unanimously to approve rules implementing legislation that makes it illegal for advertisers to pump up the volume during television commercial breaks. The law, called the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation (CALM) Act, aims to answer the complaints of Americans who have for years protested that commercials are too loud."
-
Re:Allow filtering by format details
Just edit your hosts file and forget the plugins.
Remember, there's no place like 127.0.0.1.
-
Re:They got paid for this...
> If ads were all friendly I wouldn't block any of them. I think many (most?) people probably feel the same way.
Um, no, as in DO. NOT. WANT> I want my surfing speed back so I block EVERY fucking ad.
i.e.
http://someonewhocares.org/hosts/
and
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
FTW -
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