Help and Support

You cannot modify the Hosts file or the Lmhosts file in Windows Vista

Article ID:923947
Last Review:February 7, 2007
Revision:2.4

SYMPTOMS

When you try to change the Hosts file or the Lmhosts file in Microsoft Windows Vista, you may receive an error message that resembles either of the following.

Error message 1

Access to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\ hosts was denied

Error message 2

Cannot create the C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts file.
Make sure that the path and file name are correct.
This issue occurs even though you log on by using an account that has administrative credentials.

WORKAROUND

To work around this issue, follow these steps:
1.Click Start Start button , click All Programs, click Accessories, right-click Notepad, and then click Run as administrator.

 User Account Control permission If you are prompted for an administrator password or for a confirmation, type the password, or click Allow.
2.Open the Hosts file or the Lmhosts file, make the necessary changes, and then click Save on the Edit menu.

APPLIES TO
Windows Vista Business
Windows Vista Enterprise
Windows Vista Home Basic
Windows Vista Home Premium
Windows Vista Starter
Windows Vista Ultimate

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