The best replacement for hosts file is dns.

The best alternatives to hosts file are rated as following:
★★★★★  dns
★★★  lmhosts
★★★  adblock
★★  dns server
★  lmhosts file

Your alternative for hosts file is not listed? Suggest!
Speaking about hosts file, one probably shouldn't forget about port number.

Other search terms related to hosts file and their ratings are:
★★★★★ port number
You have in mind a companion for hosts file and it is not yet here? Propose!



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hosts file
dns
lmhosts