Can't save changes to windows system file

[Flowerchild]

I really need to change a system file called 'hosts'. I've changed it many
times before, but today I'm not allowed. I access the file, make a very
small change, then try to save it just by leaving the path as is. Then I get
a message that says "Cannot save file, check path.." But I haven't changed
the path! Even if I do try to re-type the path, that doesn't help.

Any suggestions???

 

[Malke]

I really need to change a system file called 'hosts'. I've changed it
many
times before, but today I'm not allowed. I access the file, make a very
small change, then try to save it just by leaving the path as is. Then I
get
a message that says "Cannot save file, check path.." But I haven't
changed
the path! Even if I do try to re-type the path, that doesn't help.

Any suggestions???

If you have changed the hosts file many times before, then this time you are
forgetting to run Notepad elevated. Or maybe you've only changed the hosts
file on XP before.

On Vista, the hosts file is protected. To change it, Start Orb>Search
box>type: Notepad. When Notepad appears in the Results box above,
right-click on it and choose "Run as Administrator". An elevated Notepad
will open. Open the hosts file with your elevated Notepad and make your
changes. You will be able to save it now.

Malke

 

[Malke]

Add "Take Ownership" to right-click menu in Vista
http://www.petri.co.il/add-take-ownership-context-menu-vista.htm

This is a situation where the OP does *not* want to take permanent ownership
of the hosts file - a protected file. See my answer to him/her. The take
ownership right-click entry is fine, but taking ownership is not the answer
to everything. Permissions changes should be used judiciously, only where
actually needed. Temporarily elevation should be used in this case.

Malke

 

[Richard Urban]

What new security software have you recently installed that may protest the
hosts file? Many programs have that option including Spybot Search and
Destroy!