I modified the Windows hosts file under C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.
I added the line
xxx.yyy.xxx.18 jira.example.com
but the entry is simple ignored..
I also tried deactivating the Virus protection (Avira) but I have no idea what to try next..
Is there a windows group policy which deactivate/ignore the hosts file?
To be clear, the file is saved in the right position, but the changes itself are ignored.
Best Answer
The problem was related to the AntiVirus Software "AVIRA" They have a setting for enabling/disabling HOST file protection, but this was broken. It always was enabled. Also disabling the antivirus didn't help.
Solution was: Uninstalling AntiVirus, change HOST file, reinstalling AntiVirus.