Host File Location in Windows Server 2012: A Comprehensive Guide for Dev

Hey Dev, are you looking for a comprehensive guide on host file location in Windows Server 2012? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about host file location in Windows Server 2012. So, let’s get started!

What is a Host File?

A host file is a plain-text file that maps hostnames to IP addresses. It is used by the operating system to resolve hostnames to IP addresses when it is unable to do so using DNS. The host file is located on the local computer and can be edited to add or remove hostname mappings.

Can I Have Multiple Host Files?

No, you can only have one host file per computer. However, you can create multiple hostname mappings within the same file.

What is the Purpose of a Host File?

The purpose of a host file is to provide an alternative method for resolving hostnames to IP addresses when DNS is not available. This is particularly useful in situations where the local DNS server is down or unreachable. Additionally, it can be used to override DNS mappings for testing or troubleshooting purposes.

Where is the Host File Located in Windows Server 2012?

The host file is located at:

Operating System	Location of Host File
Windows Server 2012	C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts

It is important to note that the host file is a system file, and editing it may require administrative privileges.

How to Edit the Host File in Windows Server 2012

Step 1: Open Notepad as an Administrator

The first step to editing the host file in Windows Server 2012 is to open Notepad as an administrator. This can be done by right-clicking on the Notepad icon and selecting “Run as administrator”.

Step 2: Open the Host File

Once Notepad is open, you can open the host file by navigating to the following location:

C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts

Alternatively, you can open the host file directly from Notepad by selecting “File” > “Open” and navigating to the host file location.

Step 3: Edit the Host File

Once you have the host file open in Notepad, you can add or remove hostname mappings as needed. Each mapping should be on a new line and follow the format:

IP Address Hostname

For example:

127.0.0.1 localhost

Save the changes to the host file once you are finished editing.

Common Issues with the Host File in Windows Server 2012

Incorrect Formatting

One common issue with the host file in Windows Server 2012 is incorrect formatting. Each hostname mapping must be on a new line and follow the format:

IP Address Hostname

If the formatting is incorrect, the host file will not work properly.

Incorrect IP Address

Another common issue with the host file is an incorrect IP address. If the IP address is incorrect, the hostname will not resolve properly.

Permissions

If you are unable to edit the host file, it may be due to permissions. Editing the host file requires administrative privileges.

Conclusion

In this article, we covered everything you need to know about host file location in Windows Server 2012. We discussed what a host file is, its purpose, and where it is located. We also covered how to edit the host file and common issues that may arise. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out!

FAQ

1. What is the host file used for?

The host file is used to provide an alternative method for resolving hostnames to IP addresses when DNS is unavailable.

2. Can I have multiple host files?

No, you can only have one host file per computer.

3. Where is the host file located in Windows Server 2012?

The host file is located at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.

4. Can I edit the host file without administrative privileges?

No, editing the host file requires administrative privileges.

5. What is the format for adding a hostname mapping to the host file?

The format for adding a hostname mapping is “IP Address Hostname”. For example: 127.0.0.1 localhost.