Sometimes, due to a bug or a corporate firewall issue, SolidWorks fails to find a valid license server because it is trying to connect to the wrong IP address. Advanced IT administrators may use the HOSTS file to a redirect.
Your computer usually checks a DNS server to find out where www.google.com lives. However, the HOSTS file has priority. If you tell your computer that www.google.com points to 127.0.0.1 (your own machine), your browser will crash when trying to load Google.
SolidWorks is the gold standard for 3D CAD design, used by millions of engineers and designers worldwide. However, it is also a expensive piece of software, which has led to a notorious cat-and-mouse game between the developer (Dassault Systèmes) and users attempting to circumvent licensing. Solidworks Host File Block
Typically, a user adds lines such as:
Why Do People Block SolidWorks in the Hosts File? Legitimate SolidWorks licenses connect to Dassault Systèmes’ activation servers to verify your subscription. However, a "cracked" or "patched" version of SolidWorks often comes with instructions to modify the HOSTS file. The goal is to block telemetry and license verification. Sometimes, due to a bug or a corporate
If you have searched for the term you are likely standing at a crossroads. You may be troubleshooting a licensing error, or you may be attempting to use the software without a proper license.
Have a legitimate issue with your HOSTS file blocking your license? Contact your VAR (Value Added Reseller) for a remote fix. However, the HOSTS file has priority
While it is technically possible to add entries like 127.0.0.1 licensing.solidworks.com , modern software will either crash, lock you out after 30 days, or silently report you to the license server via hard-coded IPs that ignore your HOSTS file.