Creating Windows hosts file

In the following procedure, you create a hosts database that identifies your PC host and the Ethernet TAP probe. The hosts file associates IP addresses and host names of both devices.

A sample hosts file is installed in your Windows directory when you add the Microsoft TCP/IP protocol. If your PC has previously been set up with network communications, a hosts database may already exist. Before creating a new hosts database it is a good idea to make backup copies of any hosts file or sample hosts file.

To create hosts database

  1. Go to the directory where the hosts file is located. Windows hosts files are located in the %system root%\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ETC directory.
    Note: If you have trouble locating this file, use Windows Find to search for "hosts." If you have a dual-boot system, be sure to edit the hosts file appropriate to the operating system under which you are installing Ethernet TAP probe.
  2. Make a backup copy of any existing hosts file.

    Name the backup files something other than hosts, such as hosts.bak.

  3. Using any text editor, open a new text file and name it hosts (without an extension) or open the existing hosts file.
  4. In the hosts file, add an entry for the Ethernet Network Interface Card (NIC) used by the Ethernet TAP probe.

    Use the IP address you assigned during TCP/IP configuration. Assign any unique name.

    List the IP address first, followed by the name you assigned to the adapter. For reference, you can click the Network icon in the Control panel and view the Properties for the appropriate TCP/IP connection.

    The following example illustrates a hosts file for a PC in which two adapters are installed:

  5. Add an entry for your Ethernet TAP probe.

    In a true standalone configuration, use the suggested IP address (192.168.1.2) to simplify configuration. Otherwise, use an address class-consistent with the IP assigned to the NIC that will be connected to the Ethernet TAP probe.

    You can assign any unique host name to the Ethernet TAP probe.

  6. Save the hosts file as text in the correct directory, and exit the editor.

Host file name should not include a file extension.


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