Windows 2000 - Hosts File Conflict
Numerous Windows 2000 users have reported and
attempted to resolve a consistent problem with large host files in any
Windows 2000 environment.
This provides a solution for the single PC
setting. For those who are networked, even with one other PC in a LAN,
and especially those LANs who use a dial-up connection to the internet,
this offers no solution, although it may clarify the problem and offer
hints toward one.
The problem is dual. When a large hosts file is
established on a Win2k system, there is a problem of a dramatic slowdown
of Win2K and the inability to obtain an ISP verification and
registration after a dial-up connection is made. Even if a hosts file
has only four URL redirectives, ISP verification can be interrupted.
The solution is simple:
1. Close the modem (if it's connected).
2. Stop and Disable two Windows
Services - DHCP Client and DNS Server.1
Go to: Start => Programs =>
Admin Tools => Services,
or Settings => Control Panel
=>Admin Tools => Services.
Right-click => Properties
for each of these services.
Service Status: Stop
button.
Startup type: Disabled.
Apply button, then OK
button.
3. Restore your personal hosts file (by
renaming active and inactive files).
4. Reboot.
When these services are disabled, dial-up connections
and browsing will be much faster than ever! These services are
not helpful if you are not networked. Microsoft tends to include many
features which are installed and enabled by default, although they may
be unutilized and slow down the computer. They get less technical
support calls if they keep things simple and uniform.
The DNS Server determines and caches Domain Name
System (DNS) names for the network. The DHCP Client (for Dynamic Host
Control Protocol) automatically assigns IP addresses and domain names to
the computers on the network -- desirable features only if you have one.