If you want to allow the installation of SolidWorks, simply remove the entries you added to the hosts file.
If you frequently move between networks (Office ↔ Home), SolidWorks may see a different IP address and attempt to re-activate, sometimes failing and locking your license. A host block stabilizes the activation.
Mastering the SolidWorks Host File Block: A Troubleshooting and Installation Guide
Windows hosts file entries mapping SOLIDWORKS domains to 127.0.0.1 can block license activation, requiring users to remove these lines and flush the DNS cache to resolve installation issues. If issues persist, verifying Windows Firewall ports 25734 and 25735, disabling antivirus protection, or utilizing the Product Activation Wizard for email activation can bypass further restrictions. Read the full guide at Logical Solutions logicalsolutions.in How to Install SOLIDWORKS - Logical Solutions solidworks host file block install
Windows stores the network configuration files deep within the system directory. In Notepad, click > Open .
Antivirus or firewall programs may modify the file to block external telemetry.
Newer versions of SolidWorks (2023 onward, cloud-connected) require periodic online checks. If you block the host file, the software may refuse to launch entirely, displaying: "Unable to connect to the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform." If you want to allow the installation of
"You shall not... attempt to circumvent the technical limitations of the Software."
A full restart is not always required. The quickest way to apply your changes is to open the Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command ipconfig /flushdns . This clears the DNS cache and forces your system to read the updated Hosts file.
127.0.0.1 akamaitechnologies.com 127.0.0.1 edgekey.net 127.0.0.1 ll-nw.licenses.solidworks.com 127.0.0.1 licensing.solidworks.com Mastering the SolidWorks Host File Block: A Troubleshooting
The Windows hosts file ( C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts ) is often a point of failure or a necessary workaround during installation and licensing.
: By mapping the server name to a specific IP, you ensure the installer finds the SolidNetWork License (SNL) Manager without relying on potentially slow or misconfigured network DNS.
Sometimes, antivirus software detects modifications to the hosts file as a malicious action. You may need to temporarily pause your security software.
