How do I block certain web sites from either being looked at or just
popping up?
Blocking pop ups is not the same as blocking sites. Software is available to
stop popups. Some browsers can block popups too. Or your computer might be
infected with malware.
To block sites create a text file and save it as HOSTS with no extension.
For Windows 98 place this HOSTS file in your Windows folder. Enter the
domain names of the sites you want to block and point those sites at your
own computers address. That address is 127.0.0.1.
A simplified example of a HOSTS file:
127.0.0.1
www.uselesswebsitedomainname.com
To place comments begin with # as below:
# itsgoodtobequeen has blocked these useless sites.
Before you place the HOSTS file in the Windows folder be sure to set it's
file attributes to system, hidden, and read only. This can be done with a
batch file or by using the ATTRIB command in a DOS window or in Windows 98
click, Start, Run, click browse, then go to the Windows folder, select
Winfile.exe click open then OK. Now browse to the HOSTS file, select it and
then from the menubar in File Manager choose Properties and check the boxes
for System, Hidden and Read Only.
An excellent HOSTS file and instructions for it's use is available here:
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/