After editing the hosts file, Windows may still be caching the old, blocked IP addresses. You need to clear this cache.
The hosts file is located deep within the Windows system directory. Open File Explorer. Navigate to: C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc . 2. Open the File as Administrator
The issue is usually caused by the Windows host file ( C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts ) blocking the connection to the SolidWorks license server.
If you are a SolidWorks user, you may have encountered frustrating licensing errors that prevent you from starting the software, particularly in corporate environments or when dealing with node-locked licenses. One of the most effective, yet technical, solutions for troubleshooting these issues is the .
To fix connection issues, you may need to ensure your hosts file is not blocking the necessary SolidWorks communication, or alternatively, properly map your local server IP. 1. Navigate to the Hosts File solidworks host file block fix
Navigate to the following path: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc Locate the file named . Step 2: Editing the Hosts File to Remove Blocks
If the file remains inaccessible even after disabling security blocks: Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc . Right-click the file and select Properties .
If editing the Hosts file does not fully resolve the license block, your system security settings or residual system data may still be interfering with the activation check. 1. Configure Windows Defender Firewall
: Open a Command Prompt and type ipconfig /flushdns to ensure the system recognizes the new manual entries immediately. Step 4: Verify the Fix After editing the hosts file, Windows may still
If the validation fails (due to a firewall or offline status), the software triggers a . The "fix" hackers used is now the cause of legitimate corporate failures .
How to Fix SolidWorks Licensing Errors Using the Hosts File Block
: Click Start, type Notepad , right-click it, and select Run as Administrator .
Because the hosts file is a protected system file, you must open your text editor with administrative privileges. Click the menu and type Notepad . Right-click Notepad and select Run as Administrator . In Notepad, go to File > Open . Navigate to: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc Open File Explorer
When SolidWorks attempts to connect to a specific web address, Windows checks the Hosts file first. By associating a specific server address with a local IP address (like 127.0.0.1 ), you can redirect or block network traffic right at the workstation level. This is highly useful for troubleshooting loopback connections, isolating licensing bugs, or managing strict offline environments. Step-by-Step Guide to the SolidWorks Hosts File Fix
Corrupted local cache files often cause validation loops even after network connections are fixed. Close SolidWorks completely. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type %programdata% and click . Locate the folder named FLEXnet and open it.
If the Hosts file is clear but you still face blocks, your firewall may be preventing the connection.
Go to a workstation that has a working connection, or contact your CAD administrator. Open ( cmd ).