Cannot open file for writing: Permission denied when trying to save my hosts file edits

Question

I am trying to add a line to my /etc/hosts file but when I go to save it, I get the error "Cannot open file for writing: Permission denied".

The permissions for the file (ls -la /etc/hosts) is as follows:

-rw-r--r--  1 root  wheel  289 Apr 22  2021 /etc/hosts

I've been searching the internet but still can't find my answer. I am running macOS Ventura. How can I edit this file?

Which version of macOS are you using? Also, it tells you it's a permissions issue. What does ls -la /etc/hosts produce? — Allan, Commented Jan 17, 2023 at 18:55
-rw-r--r-- 1 root wheel 289 Apr 22 2021 /etc/hosts This is what I got! — way245, Commented Jan 17, 2023 at 19:00
That tells you it is readable by root, users in the wheel group, and everyone else. It is only writeable by root. So, to edit it, you need to preface your command with sudo. For example, if using the nano editor: sudo nano /etc/hosts. Enter your password and you'll be able to edit. — Allan, Commented Jan 17, 2023 at 19:03
You have been extremely helpful. Thank you for the warm welcome :) — way245, Commented Jan 17, 2023 at 19:24

Giacomo1968 · Accepted Answer · 2023-01-17 20:10:21Z

3

It turns out to be a permissions issue. To edit, the sudo must be used to edit with root permissions:

sudo nano /etc/hosts

Giacomo1968

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answered Jan 17, 2023 at 19:13

way245

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