HOSTS file setting in WSA?

Hi,

I want to know about the option 'Prevent any program from modifying the HOSTS file' under 'Core System Shield' in the 'Settings' of WSA.

Should I mark this option? I mean is it a good thing to prevent apps from modifying the HOSTS file when AV, other specialized apps do modify it to prevent ads, malware sites, etc? If I use WSA with another AV, IS or mega suite should I leave the option unmarked?

Best Wishes,
Iron Man

 

In general, a suite wouldn't use the HOSTS file to block ads or other threats - they would have their own logic in place to be able to block them. Enabling the option will prevent any program from modifying the HOSTS file so if you do need to make any changes to it, you'll have to disable the option and then make the changes (but it doesn't require a reboot or any other changes to be disabled or enabled again).

Hope that helps!

 

Oh sorry for my ignorance. Good to know suites would not conflict with WSA option.

How is the option going to play along EAM and OA given that both EAM and OA have their respective HOSTS file functions. Will the duo conflict with WSA over this function?

 

I'm not familiar enough with either product, but perhaps another user will know the answer.

 

Oh okay I'll wait for a user to shed some light into this matter. Thx anyways.

 

Hey there Iron Man,

If you read through these posts, you will see that one unfortunate user had his HOSTS file updated by some rogue software because he was running WSA without checking the 'Prevent any program from modifying the HOSTS file' option. I have been running WSA Essentials on three systems for several months now with the HOSTS options checked, and have not had any problems installing or running ANY software.

 

FWIW, Winpatrol (even the free version) can monitor the HOSTS file.