Depending on the context, AngryHosts usually refers to Angry Hosts File, a highly aggressive privacy and security tool used to block unwanted tracking, ads, and malware. However, if you are looking to scan your network for active devices, you might be thinking of a very popular, similarly named tool called Angry IP Scanner.
The details for both tools are outlined below to ensure you find what you need. 1. Angry Hosts File (The Privacy Tool)
The Angry Hosts File is an open-source security tool hosted on GitHub. It is designed for users who want maximum control over what their computer communicates with on the internet.
What it does: It merges several major internet blocklists into a single file. This file blocks your device from talking to trackers, advertisements, and malicious websites.
Why it is “Angry”: The creator describes it as a “paranoia tool”. Its philosophy is to block everything, even if there is only a tiny suspicion that a web address is bad. Users have to manually add safe sites to a “whitelist” if the tool blocks too much.
How it works: It builds data for your computer’s local “hosts file” or configured DNS servers (like dnsmasq). This means your web browser cannot even load the connection to the blocked site, providing faster and stronger blocking than standard browser extensions. It currently blocks over 615,000 unique web addresses. 2. Angry IP Scanner (The Network Tool)
If you are looking for a program to find “hosts” (devices like computers, phones, or printers) on your local network, you are likely looking for Angry IP Scanner. It is one of the most famous free tools used by network administrators.
What it does: It scans a range of IP addresses to see what devices are turned on and connected.
Key Features: It is incredibly fast, free, open-source, and works across Windows, Mac, and Linux. It checks whether a device is active, tells you its hostname, finds its MAC address, and scans for open ports.
Ease of Use: It features a very simple interface and does not even require installation to run. Summary Comparison Angry Hosts File Angry IP Scanner Primary Purpose Blocks ads, malware, and trackers. Finds active devices on a network. How it treats “Hosts” Treats them as bad web domains to be blocked. Treats them as connected devices to be mapped. Target User Privacy enthusiasts and advanced users. Everyday curious users and IT administrators.
Leave a Reply