The DNS (Domain Name System) servers are what your computer uses to figure out where to go on the internet. www.whatever.com means absolutely nothing to your machine. It's only with the help of the DNS servers that your computer can figure out what address that domain name correlates to.
There are several methods of hijacking the DNS entries on your PC. The most common, and easiest way to do it is to add false entries into your computers HOSTS file. We'll cover how to empty that out first:
The HOSTS file is located in a couple of different locations, depending on your Windows version. In Windows XP it is located at C:WINDOWSsystem32driversetchosts (no extension). In Windows 98/ME it is at C:Windowshosts (also no extension).
Open it up with notepad. The contents of the file should look like this:
# Copyright (c) 1993-1999 Microsoft Corp.
#
# This is a sample HOSTS file used by Microsoft TCP/IP for Windows.
#
# This file contains the mappings of IP addresses to host names. Each
# entry should be kept on an individual line. The IP address should
# be placed in the first column followed by the corresponding host name.
# The IP address and the host name should be separated by at least one
# space.
#
# Additionally, comments (such as these) may be inserted on individual
# lines or following the machine name denoted by a '#' symbol.
#
# For example:
#
# 102.54.94.97 rhino.acme.com # source server
# 38.25.63.10 x.acme.com # x client host
127.0.0.1 localhost
If there are any entries below the localhost one, then unless you've added some on purpose, then you've more than likely been hit with a DNS hijacker of some sort. The best course of action here is to run a full system scan with an up to date virus scanner, as well as a couple of spyware scanners. (Preferably from safe mode)
After the scans are done, then use winsockfix to repair the corrupted WinSock settings. This should take care of the problem.
Kevin Souter is a full time computer repair technician. He also operates a winsockfix site, as well as a general winsockfix site.
green cleaning service Park Ridge ..IntroOne of the big advantages of PCs over earlier types... Read More
I am going to assume that you are running windows... Read More
Computers have replaced typewriters, but two-finger, hunt-and-peck typing can never... Read More
If you utilize a computer at home or work it... Read More
Confused by EDTV vs HDTV? We don't blame you. The... Read More
Stop Getting LostOne of the greatest uses for a pocket... Read More
Feeling overwhelmed in selecting a new TV? With all the... Read More
Winter?the official start of the cold and flu season. Though,... Read More
I recently took a good look at what was keeping... Read More
Maintaining your computer is extremely important ? especially if you... Read More
Having two operating systems is not as difficult as many... Read More
Are you thinking of buying an Apple iPod? Or have... Read More
We all enjoy our favorite screensavers but in the same... Read More
Saving Lives With A Pocket PCFree medical downloads can be... Read More
When browsing the internet you are likely to come across... Read More
Understanding digital camera prices makes finding the best camera value... Read More
Get started creating web pages using text files and HTML... Read More
JVC developed and used a high-performance reflective film to produce... Read More
There have been some questions on anti-skip protection on mp3... Read More
What is a Refurbished Computer?Refurbished Computers. Remanufactured Computers. Reconditioned Computers.... Read More
MMC and SDFlash memory is available in so many formats... Read More
Have you ever thought about building your own computer system?... Read More
I would like to tell you about a magic home.... Read More
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a protocol that is part... Read More
First things first, what is Firefox? Well, it's a browser.... Read More
cleaning help near Bannockburn ..1. Let your PC boot up completely before opening any... Read More
How long do you think DVDs have around? 20 years?... Read More
If you have a computer for home use or for... Read More
1. Before sitting down for coding, you must have formal... Read More
Want to save money while promoting your web-based business? Of... Read More
There are plenty of articles out there about how to... Read More
Saving Lives With A Pocket PCFree medical downloads can be... Read More
Google, in their march to stay ahead of the pack... Read More
Feeling overwhelmed in selecting a new TV? With all the... Read More
Addressing a D2X Digital SLRCoolpix 8800 search, this article provides... Read More
CCNAs and CCNA candidates hear it all the time: ???Get... Read More
Are you looking for an MP3 player but am not... Read More
IntroductionMac OS X is the most technologically advanced operating system... Read More
Have you ever thought about building your own computer system?... Read More
When browsing the internet you are likely to come across... Read More
The Internet can be a dangerous place.While you're enjoying the... Read More
The DNS (Domain Name System) servers are what your computer... Read More
On 21 August 2003 Symantec Security Response upgraded the W32.SOBIG.F... Read More
I am going to assume that you are running windows... Read More
Do you know how many fonts are currently installed on... Read More
How can you compare mp3 players to be sure you're... Read More
"Aaaaaahhhhhh! I've been invaded by a virus!" Getting a virus... Read More
What led them to this choice, as all four studios... Read More
Plasma and LCD TVs are the latest trend in home... Read More
We have just entered the time of year that most... Read More
Personal Technology |