There are both benefits and cons about using Hosts files. After reading these, you may decide for yourself whether you will want to proceed to the steps or stop if it's not worth your time and trouble.

Benefits

1. Using the Hosts file uses less resources.
-By using a function built into the computer, you can save memory and cut down on processing power by not having to install and use third party programs. That leaves you free to do other tasks.

2. It works on connectios other than HTTP.
-Most ad-blocking programs will only intercept IP calls going to your HTTP port, but other transfers can still go through. The Hosts file, however, will block IP calls on any port, whether it is HTTP, FTP, or anything else.

3. Eliminate many privacy and tracking concerns.
-By intercepting the IP calls before they ever leave your computer, the Hosts file can prevent advertising and tracking companies from ever even knowing you are viewing a web page. This will keep them from profiling you and help you keep your privacy. All sites in the Hosts file entered with a 127.0.0.1 address will never be accessed. Sites that are not in the Hosts file may still track you and send you ads.

4. The Hosts file is editable.
-You can customize the Hosts file to block whatever you want. You can block ads, trackers, offensive content, or anything else.

5. Browse the net faster.
-By blocking ad banners, popups, popunders, and everything else, you can save the bandwidth and download the page you want to see faster.

6. Compatability with other operating systems.
-This method works with other operating systems such as Linux and Unix.

Cons

1. It will not work with wildcards.
-An example would be *.whateversite.com

2. It will not work with URLs that contain IP numbers.
-URLs that only have an IP address and not a host name cannot be blocked by the Hosts file.

3. It will not block ads from the same site that you are viewing.
-The Hosts file will block entire sites, not just subdirectories or pathnames. For example, if www.netscape.com was entered into the Hosts file, it will block all of the content coming from that site. You cannot block a specific subdirectory like www.netscape.com/images.

4. It may cause some sites to stop working.
-If you put the wrong server into your hosts file, it may mean that certain websites will no longer be viewable as they normally would be. To remedy this, remove the entry of the site you wish to unblock from your hosts file.

Note: It has been noticed by many users, that using 0.0.0.0 instead of 127.0.0.1 in the hosts file entries, will significantly speed your internet surfing. However, also be aware that using 0.0.0.0 has been known to cause some problems for a few individuals. So, if you experience problems using 0.0.0.0's switch all the entries to 127.0.0.1's and see if it fixes it.