Solidworks Host File Block Install File

If you have added all the entries and are still seeing an activation warning, there are two potential issues:

This report outlines technical issues and resolutions related to the Windows "hosts" file and file blocking during SOLIDWORKS installations.

A host file, also known as a hosts file, is a text file used by operating systems to map hostnames to IP addresses. It is a crucial component of the Domain Name System (DNS) that allows users to access websites and other network resources. The host file is usually located in the system directory of a computer, and its primary function is to override DNS queries and redirect them to a specific IP address. solidworks host file block install

The hosts file method remains a and for environments where you already have a valid offline license. For modern SolidWorks releases with cloud-integrated licensing, more advanced network controls are necessary.

The hosts file is a plain text file that maps hostnames to IP addresses before the system queries external DNS servers. If you have added all the entries and

Based on common anti-piracy and telemetry block-lists, you should add these entries to break the license validation chain:

You should see a message confirming that the DNS Resolver Cache was successfully flushed. Alternative Network Blocks to Investigate The host file is usually located in the

Users may try to block known activation servers to prevent the software from re-verifying a perpetual license, though this often causes more issues.

Modern versions of SOLIDWORKS (including 2024, 2025, and 2026) frequently attempt to reach out to Dassault Systèmes' activation and license validation servers. During a "cracked" or "offline" activation process, this validation needs to be prevented. If the software reaches the internet and fails to validate a serial number, it may revert to a trial mode, display "License Error -15,10,10061", or simply refuse to launch. Blocking via the hosts file ensures that while you maintain internet connectivity for other applications, SOLIDWORKS cannot check its license status externally.

Instead of using a hosts file block, which can cause long-term instability, use these authorized methods for troubleshooting: 1. Fix License Manager Communication (Firewall)