by entirely severing the CAD workstation's connection to external validation or telemetry servers. Step-by-Step Guide to Modifying Your Hosts File
While editing the hosts file is a powerful tool, it should only be used to solve legitimate networking issues. Using a to bypass licensing is not a recommended or compliant approach. Always ensure your software is licensed and that you are using the official SolidNetWork License Manager to manage activations.
One of the most effective, albeit technical, solutions to this issue is modifying your computer’s to block or redirect specific traffic. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to use the hosts file to troubleshoot and fix SOLIDWORKS installation block issues. What is a Hosts File and Why Modify It for SOLIDWORKS? solidworks host file block install
: If the IP address of your license server changes, the hardcoded entry in the hosts file will prevent SOLIDWORKS from launching until the file is manually updated.
The "block" refers to redirecting these specific domain names back to your own computer ( 127.0.0.1 or 0.0.0.0 ). By doing a , you prevent the software from verifying the license status externally. by entirely severing the CAD workstation's connection to
It is strongly recommended to physically disconnect your network by unplugging your Ethernet cable or turning off Wi-Fi (or using Airplane Mode). This will prevent SolidWorks' installer or activation wizard from making any unsolicited contact with the outside world during the critical setup phase.
To resolve the "SOLIDWORKS host file block install" issue, follow these step-by-step solutions: Always ensure your software is licensed and that
Right-click the setup.exe file within your SolidWorks installation media and choose Run as administrator to grant it full system access.
If the installation was corrupted, use the Windows Control Panel to repair it: Go to . Select SOLIDWORKS , click Change , and select Repair . Conclusion
Once the ping successfully reaches the external server, launch your SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager to complete your setup. If you want to troubleshoot further, tell me:
: If SOLIDWORKS is unable to connect for activation, a new outbound rule may need to be created in the Windows Firewall to "Allow the connection" for the specific program executable.