Solidworks Host File Block Install [extra Quality] -
Corporate IT environments sometimes enforce strict host file rules that inadvertently block legitimate communication. Step-by-Step Guide to Clean the Hosts File
If you manage a (on a dedicated server), the process changes slightly.
In managed corporate environments, ask your IT administrator to whitelist the *.solidworks.com domain wildcard in the corporate proxy or hardware firewall rather than editing local host files manually.
This is expected. To mitigate, disconnect the network cable entirely. The installer will fail faster if there is no network interface rather than waiting for TCP timeouts on 127.0.0.1 .
I can then provide specific troubleshooting steps to help you resolve your issue properly. Share public link solidworks host file block install
Before launching the SolidWorks installer, test that the domains resolve to 127.0.0.1 :
# START OF SOLIDWORKS BLOCK LIST # (Installed on: [Date you are doing this])
This is a necessary skill for any IT admin managing SolidWorks deployments in restricted environments. It is not a "fix-all" for every installation error, but for connectivity-related stalls, it works 100% of the time. Just remember to undo the changes post-install to ensure your license validation remains healthy.
127.0.0.1 crashdump.solidworks.com 127.0.0.1 usage.solidworks.com Corporate IT environments sometimes enforce strict host file
| Pros | Cons | |------|------| | Free, no extra software | Easily bypassed by some app versions | | System-wide, affects all users | Requires admin rights to edit | | Works without a firewall service | Can cause installer timeouts | | Permanent until manually removed | No granular control (all-or-nothing) |
For official technical guidance, you should always contact your SOLIDWORKS Value Added Reseller (VAR) or refer to the official SOLIDWORKS support documentation provided by Dassault Systèmes.
I understand you're looking for information about modifying the to block SolidWorks from contacting license servers — typically done to prevent online license validation after installation.
or if security software prevent access to it. This often results in "Permission Denied" errors or connectivity issues where the installer cannot reach the required license or download servers. SOLIDWORKS Forums Troubleshooting Hosts File Blocks This is expected
Paste the following path into the address bar at the top and press Enter: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
: Uncheck "Prevent any program from modifying the HOSTs file". : Go to Advanced Settings and uncheck "Lock Hosts File". Check File Attributes : Ensure the hosts file itself is not set to "Read-only". Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc Right-click the file and select Properties Run as Administrator
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always comply with your software licensing agreement.