I tried to install HOSTS file using installer, I also tried to add it manually and used HostsMan to manage HOSTS file but every time the same problem: I can't load any sites. DNS client is disabled but that does not help.

I know, I am doing something wrong, would you please help me? I really want the latest file in my system.

I am currently on Windows 8 64-bit. Thanks!

Are you able to ping or tracert any sites?

Only with "Use internal DNS resolver" box cheked (via HostsMan)

What DNS servers do you normally use? (the HOSTS file shouldn't normally affect any sites other than those in the HOSTS file itself).

Can you access Google?

Well, my router uses these internal DNS servers provided by my provider (WAN settings)


As for internet connection on my PC - it is set to get DNS settings automatically


I can not access any sites through all my browsers.

My computer is running on preinstalled Windows 8 64-bit (Hewlett-Packard notebook) - can this be an issue? By default there is standard HOSTS file used. When I replace a standard file with hpHosts file it starts to be impossible to open any sites, HostsMan can ping sites but only if I tick the "internal DNS resolver" box, after, until DNS service is disabled, neither I can change the HOSTS file back to standard one nor HostsMan can restore it even if it is running with admin (UAC) rights. Something wrong in my system.

The routers config is unlikely to have any affect if it's just installing the HOSTS file that causes it.

It's possible one of the entries is causing it, but without a pcap (wireshark.org) or being able to see the machine myself, I'm a little puzzled (the HOSTS file just blocks hostnames, it doesn't block IPs).

Are you able to load this in the browser?

82.165.40.133

If so, it's possible your connection relies on the DNS Client service (assuming it was only disabled when installing the HOSTS file?). This is usually only required on corporate and some SMB networks, not usually required on a typical residential ISP connection.

This sounds like something is blocking it, you should be able to restore the original without issue (its being Windows 8 won't be the cause).

You can re-start in Safe Mode to restore the HOSTS file if its being blocked in "normal" mode. Ensure you re-start the DNS Client service as well (it should be set to automatic by default)

No problem for me, sure I can restore in safe mode, but I can't use hpHosts file for some reason Maybe its being HP is the cause. Probably I should contact their support, but I doubt they will help me.

Being HP won't be the cause. Based on the symptoms, it's likely your connection relies on the DNS Client service.

If possible, can you try installing the optimized version of hpHosts, and leaving the DNS Client service enabled please? (will allow determination of whether that is the cause or not).