How to Turn Your Hosts File into a Malware Firewall
Your Mac's hosts file isn't just for blocking ads. It can also block connections to known malware command-and-control (C&C) servers, ransomware domains, and phishing sites.
By routing these dangerous domains to 0.0.0.0, you create a lightweight, system-level firewall that works alongside (or instead of) heavy antivirus software.
You can use the URLhaus or Phishing Army blocklists. These are updated frequently by security researchers.
sudo nano /etc/hosts
You must copy thousands of domains. Critical: You need to update this weekly, or you're protected against yesterday's threats but vulnerable to today's.
- ✓ Completely free
- ✓ Lightweight (no background app)
- ✗ Dangerous if outdated: Static lists age poorly
- ✗ Hard to manage multiple lists
- ✗ No validation of entries
Traditional AV suites (Norton, McAfee) include web protection that blocks malicious sites.
- ✓ Real-time scanning
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✗ Slow: Uses significant CPU/RAM
- ✗ Intrusive: Popups and notifications
- ✗ Subscription model
SaneHosts offers the "Kitchen Sink" or "Privacy Shield" profiles, which include curated malware lists from StevenBlack and URLhaus. It keeps them updated automatically.
- ✓ Live Updates: Keeps your protection current
- ✓ Zero Performance Cost: It's just a file, not a process
- ✓ Safe Merging: Combine Ad blocking + Malware blocking
- ✓ Touch ID: Secure your firewall settings
Compatible with macOS 14 (Sonoma) and later.