Tell me more ×
Super User is a question and answer site for computer enthusiasts and power users. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 5 down vote favorite

I know the hosts file should be under

C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\

But for some reason, I don't have the etc directory there at all. In fact, I searched for "hosts" under C:\Windows and found nothing.
I have a Windows 7 64bit installation and yes, I checked in Control Panel\Folder Options that I can see hidden files.

share|improve this question

1 Answer

up vote 6 down vote accepted

It seems this folder has some strange hidden attribute on it. I have show hidden files and folders and show protected operating system files on, and I couldn't browse to it. However if you actually type it into the address bar you can get there!

(After doing this, I now /can/ browse to it, so I can't test other folder options settings to see what makes it show up.)

EDIT: For clarity, tested on Windows 7 Ultimate x64.

share|improve this answer
I was going to try out your answer, but when I browsed there again etc was there!! Very strange behavior... – Jonathan Oct 5 '10 at 15:06
Yeah, it's pretty wacky. I'd love to know why. – Shinrai Oct 5 '10 at 15:11

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.