The hosts file in the C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc folder has no file extension and contains computer names and their associated IP addresses on the local network. An IT support technician can manually edit the hosts file when the association is needed for address resolution on the local network and a DNS server is not available on the local network.
Using your small network you set up in Real Problem 7-1, do the following to use the hosts file: 1. The ping command sends a request to a remote computer and the computer responds to verify communication. On Computer A, open a command prompt window and ping Computer B using its IP address. For example, if the IP address is 192.168.10.10, use this command: ping 192.168.10.10.
2. Try to ping Computer B, this time using its computer name. Did the ping work?
3. Use Notepad to edit the hosts file on Computer A and add the entry that associates the IP address of Computer B with its computer name.
4. Try to ping Computer B, this time using its computer name rather than IP address. Did the ping work?