HOSTS Manager

HOSTS Manager is a Windows tool that enables you to easily manage the Hosts file, the one which holds your network's IP configurations and must be protected from hijackers at all time.

It comes bundled with several options that can be conveniently handled by all types of users, even those less experienced with networking software.

Installing this piece of kit is a speedy job that shouldn't give you any trouble, since the wizard contains only familiar options.

As far as the interface is concerned, HOSTS Manager is pretty straightforward. It's made from a small rectangular window that displays all functions available, and it's only necessary to pick a feature and click a button to execute the command.

The Hosts file can be disabled and re-enabled, or the application can be asked to look up updates, which get automatically installed if found. It can lock file attributes by setting them to read-only, system and hidden.

You can also set a password with a minimum length of 5 characters and maximum length of 8 characters, in order to restrict other users' access. This key can be later changed or disabled.

Moreover, you can back up data from Hosts (this is automatically performed by the tool) and later restore backups. Worth mentioning is that, although HOSTS Manager has a so-called backup manager, it doesn't actually let you administer anything. No matter how many backups you create, the utility will only restore the most recent one.

Lastly, you can check out Hosts details when it comes to the file's location, size, attributes, last update and backup time, along with the password protection status. Apart from the fact that you can consult a help manual, there are no other notable options available.

The software app worked well in our tests, without triggering the operating system to hang, crash or prompt errors. Unsurprisingly, it had minimal impact on PC performance, consuming low CPU and RAM. Changes were carried out swiftly.

On the other hand, we expected more advanced configuration parameters for experienced users. However, you can test HOSTS Manager for yourself if you're looking to quickly perform basic options involving the Windows Hosts file. It's free to use.