Microsoft KB Archive/923947

Knowledge Base

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

Article ID: 923947

Article Last Modified on 2/7/2007

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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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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, click All Programs, click Accessories, right-click Notepad, and then click Run as administrator.
   

If you are prompted for an administrator password or for a confirmation, type the password, or click Allow.

1. Open the Hosts file or the Lmhosts file, make the necessary changes, and then click Save on the Edit menu.

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