The simplest approach to facilitate name resolution is to configure a master HOSTS file, ensuring that every workstation in the distributed system has the same copy.
An example of a HOSTS file appears below:
127.0.0.1 localhost
192.168.3.21 Server1
192.168.3.22 Server2
192.168.3.23 Server3
192.168.3.30 OpRoom1
192.168.3.31 OpSuper
192.168.3.50 RemoteWorks
192.168.3.55 RemoteWorks1
The name for the HOSTS file should simply be "HOSTS" (an extension is not required). The location in which the HOSTS file should be stored within your Windows system directory depends upon your operating system.
Note: It is strongly recommended that you use workstation names other than IP addresses whenever possible, especially in networks where the workstations may be dual-homed, or where dynamic IPs are assigned. Since workstation names are unique, it is good practice to condition yourself to use workstation names, rather than IP addresses, even if yours system configuration does not currently require the use of workstation names.