Solidworks Host File Block Install ~repack~ Jun 2026
If you are using this method for a Network License (SNL) setup, be extremely careful not to block your internal license server address. Only block the external SOLIDWORKS validation addresses. Additionally, remember to remove the entries from the host file after the installation is complete if you want the software to successfully validate the license upon the first launch.
The Windows Hosts file is a plain-text file that maps hostnames to IP addresses. It acts as a local "phone book" that the operating system consults before reaching out to external Domain Name System (DNS) servers. In the context of a SOLIDWORKS installation, this file can be used to:
Double-click the file named (it will not have a file extension). Step 3: Identify and Delete Blocked SolidWorks Entries
Right-click in the search results and select Run as administrator . Step 2: Open the Hosts File In Notepad, go to File > Open . Navigate to: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc solidworks host file block install
The SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager or 3DEXPERIENCE Launcher can be blocked if it lacks permission to modify the Windows hosts file
To avoid host file issues during SOLIDWORKS installation:
The Installation Manager displays a connection failure error and initiates a countdown to retry, which repeatedly fails. If you are using this method for a
If cleaning your hosts file does not resolve the issue, other security layers on your machine may still be blocking the SolidWorks Installation Manager. 1. Windows Defender and Third-Party Firewalls
In conclusion, modifying the hosts file can be a simple and effective way to block SolidWorks installation on a computer or network. However, it is essential to consider the potential workarounds and limitations to ensure that the desired level of control is achieved.
Preventing the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager from attempting to reach online activation servers. The Windows Hosts file is a plain-text file
: Delete those lines, or add a # at the start of the line to disable the block.
If SOLIDWORKS isn't behaving as expected after your edits, check for these common issues:
Stopping the software from checking for updates or license validation if you are using a network license manager that is currently down or being moved.
127.0.0.1 activation.solidworks.com 127.0.0.1 license.solidworks.com 127.0.0.1 solidworks.com.akadns.net 127.0.0.1 register.solidworks.com 127.0.0.1 sw.activate.com 127.0.0.1 activate.solidworks.com 127.0.0.1 solidworks.licensing.com