<P> In some operating systems, the contents of the hosts file is used preferentially to other name resolution methods, such as the Domain Name System (DNS), but many systems implement name service switches, e.g., nsswitch. conf for Linux and Unix, to provide customization . Unlike remote DNS resolvers, the hosts file is under the direct control of the local computer's administrator . </P> <Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This section needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (April 2017) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This section needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (April 2017) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> The hosts file contains lines of text consisting of an IP address in the first text field followed by one or more host names . Each field is separated by white space--tabs are often preferred for historical reasons, but spaces are also used . Comment lines may be included; they are indicated by an octothorpe (#) in the first position of such lines . Entirely blank lines in the file are ignored . For example, a typical hosts file may contain the following: </P>

How to check my hosts file in windows