Windows 10: Can't edit the hosts file

I figured out a workaround: Go into Safe Mode. I was having issues with being unable to save changes because file was open in the system. There are quite a few threads about this, all of them locked now, but none seem to mention trying Safe Mode. All the complicated talks of using resource monitors and administrator permissions didn't work for me. I don't know why the more obvious Safe Mode workaround isn't mentioned straight away, but I'm putting it here to save people heartache!

:)

 

Hosts file editing

I have to jump in and say I use, and have used the host file for years. It's an easy way to take stress off of old name servers. I don't add everything, but major shares I do add to the host file. I've used the host file for some tunneling as well. I try to optimize my network as much as possible and I have a solid network. But Easy Rhino is right as well, you'll want to have everything he suggested as well. *Toast :toast:

 

Unable to edit Hosts file

Hi,

We would like to ask how are you trying to edit the host file on your computer? Is there any chance that you are doing it via Notepad as administrator? If not, you can try doing the steps below:

• Press the Windows key and search for Notepad.
• Once Notepad is available, right-click and select Run as administrator.
• In your Notepad, Click File > Open
  and search for the following file: c:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\hosts
• You can edit the changes as normal
• Click File > Save to save your changes.

Let us know how it goes.

 

Unable to edit Hosts file

Step 1. Move file hosts from
C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\ to
Desktop.

Step 2. Edit (in Notepad)

Step 3. Save your changes.

Step 4. Move file hosts to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\