Locking host file

[sreenisha]

Hi
I am using windows XP for my pc which has no username or password to login.I have editted the hosts file in order to deny others(espicial ly children) from visiting unwanted sites.But now i found out that the hosts files are frequently editted and used before browsing.After browsing ,the commented entries are kept as before and file is saved.So any one plz help me in password protecting the host file or etc folder .Also plz let me know is there any way to prompt the user while visiting blocked sites by telling that these details are send to some email address or something.
Thankx in advance

[harshadd]

which browser u r using?
if IE, then configure containt from tools - > "Internet Options "
otrherwise let me know

[arnaudk]

I don't think editing the hosts file is the way to go.
As you pointed out, the host file is accessed and written to by other programs, so locking it is not a good idea. Even if you could, there are many workarounds. For example, the user can easily get the ip address of the webserver to access it; typing 74.125.79.103 will take you to www.google.com even if that's blocked in the host file.
There is lots of parental control software out there like Net Nanny to stop children accessing questionable websites, you'd be better off using one of those.