Solidworks Host File Block Install -
The SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager or 3DEXPERIENCE Launcher can be blocked if it lacks permission to modify the Windows hosts file
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
If your installation is failing due to hosts file issues, follow these steps to resolve the block: Disable Antivirus Interference
: Many antivirus programs (such as Webroot, ZoneAlarm, or SentinelOne) actively "lock" the hosts file to prevent malware from hijacking it.
: 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
: The installer requires elevated permissions to write to system files. Right-click your and select Run as Administrator Manual DNS Workaround
: If the installer still cannot connect to license servers, you may need to manually add the server's IP and name to the hosts file. as an Administrator. Open the file at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts Add a new line with the [IP Address] [Server Name] 192.168.1.100 MyPDMServer Save the file and run ipconfig /flushdns in a Command Prompt. SOLIDWORKS Forums Other Common "Blocks" Sometimes the installer appears "blocked" (e.g., a blank white screen
) not because of the hosts file, but because Windows has blocked the downloaded installation files. Unblock Zip/Exe : Right-click the downloaded SOLIDWORKS zip or Properties , and click the button at the bottom. Firewall Exceptions
: Ensure your firewall allows outbound TCP connections on port 80 for sldimdownloader.exe www.javelin-tech.com Are you seeing a specific error code like "Permission Denied" or a blank screen when the installer launches?
Understanding and Resolving SOLIDWORKS Host File Block Install Issues
SOLIDWORKS, a leading 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software, is widely used by engineers, designers, and manufacturers across various industries. However, users often encounter installation issues, one of which is related to the host file blocking the installation process. In this article, we will explore the concept of a host file, its role in SOLIDWORKS installation, and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve the "SOLIDWORKS host file block install" issue.
What is a Host File?
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.
The Role of Host File in SOLIDWORKS Installation
During the installation of SOLIDWORKS, the software requires access to specific servers to verify the license, activate the product, and download necessary files. The host file plays a vital role in this process by directing the installation wizard to the correct servers. However, if the host file is misconfigured or contains incorrect entries, it can block the installation process, resulting in a "SOLIDWORKS host file block install" error.
Causes of SOLIDWORKS Host File Block Install
Several factors can contribute to the host file blocking the SOLIDWORKS installation: solidworks host file block install
Solutions to Resolve SOLIDWORKS Host File Block Install
To resolve the "SOLIDWORKS host file block install" issue, follow these step-by-step solutions:
Solution 1: Check and Update the Host File
Solution 2: Reset the Host File to Default
Solution 3: Disable Firewall and Antivirus Software
Solution 4: Use the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager
Solution 5: Contact SOLIDWORKS Support
If none of the above solutions work, contact SOLIDWORKS support for further assistance. They can provide personalized guidance and help you resolve the issue.
Best Practices to Avoid Host File Issues
To avoid host file issues during SOLIDWORKS installation:
In conclusion, the "SOLIDWORKS host file block install" issue can be resolved by understanding the role of the host file in the installation process and applying the solutions outlined above. By following best practices and taking proactive measures, you can avoid host file issues and ensure a smooth installation experience. If you're still experiencing issues, don't hesitate to contact SOLIDWORKS support for personalized assistance.
The "SOLIDWORKS host file block install" issue typically occurs when the Windows hosts file prevents the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager from communicating with activation or download servers. This block can manifest as a blank installation screen, connection errors, or activation failures. Understanding the Role of the Hosts File
The Windows hosts file is a local plain-text file that maps hostnames to IP addresses, bypassing the standard DNS.
The Block: If the hosts file contains entries that redirect SOLIDWORKS domains (like those for activation or updates) to an invalid IP like 0.0.0.0 or 127.0.0.1, the installer cannot reach the required external servers.
Security Software: Some antivirus programs (e.g., SentinelOne or ZoneAlarm) may lock or modify the hosts file to prevent unauthorized communication, inadvertently blocking legitimate SOLIDWORKS traffic. How to Fix a SOLIDWORKS Host File Block
To resolve this, you must manually inspect and edit the hosts file to ensure no critical SOLIDWORKS addresses are restricted. 1. Open Notepad as Administrator Solutions to Resolve SOLIDWORKS Host File Block Install
Standard users cannot save changes to system files. You must right-click Notepad in the Start menu and select Run as Administrator. 2. Locate the Hosts File
In Notepad, go to File > Open and navigate to:C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\
Note: You must change the file type filter in the bottom-right corner of the open dialog from "Text Documents (.txt)" to **"All Files (.*)"** to see the file named simply "hosts". 3. Edit and Clean the File
Search the file for any lines containing "solidworks" or "activation".
Remove Restrictions: If a line begins with an IP followed by a SOLIDWORKS-related URL, delete that line or add a # at the start of it to "comment it out".
PDM Server Entry: If you are using SOLIDWORKS PDM and cannot connect to your server, you may actually need to add an entry to help the system find it. On a new line, type the [Server IP] followed by a [Server Name]. 4. Flush the DNS Cache
After saving the hosts file, open the Command Prompt as administrator and type:ipconfig /flushdnsThis ensures Windows immediately recognizes the changes you made.
Editing a Hosts File on Windows, Linux, and macOS | MasterDC
Blocking websites – If you want to block access to a particular website, add the hostname to a hosts file with an IP address of 0. www.masterdc.com
This guide is intended for educational and technical troubleshooting contexts. It explains a common method used to prevent SolidWorks from “phoning home” to validate licenses or check for updates during a specific installation workflow.
Every Windows computer (from Windows 7 to Windows 11) contains a plain text file named hosts (no extension). Its job is to map hostnames to IP addresses. Think of it as a local, manual DNS (Domain Name System) list.
When you type www.google.com, your PC checks its hosts file before asking the internet’s DNS servers.
At the bottom of the file, add a clear comment and then the list of domains. For example:
# SolidWorks Block List - Added on YYYY-MM-DD
# Licensing
127.0.0.1 activation.solidworks.com
127.0.0.1 license.solidworks.com
Edit the File:
Add Server Entries:
127.0.0.1 sw_activation_solidworks_dongle.ems.norman.no
127.0.0.1 sw_dongle_solidworks.ems.norman.no
127.0.0.1 sw_activation_server_solidworks_dongle.ems.norman.no
127.0.0.1 sw_activation_server_solidworks_dongle.noi.no
127.0.0.1 sw_activation_solidworks_dongle.noi.no
127.0.0.1 sw_dongle_solidworks.noi.no
127.0.0.1 www.solidworks.com
127.0.0.1 activation.solidworks.com
Save and Close:
Disclaimer: Modifying system files to bypass software licensing is a violation of the SOLIDWORKS Terms of Use. This information is provided for educational and troubleshooting purposes regarding network configuration only.
Blocking SolidWorks Installation using Host File
The hosts file is a system file that maps hostnames to IP addresses. It is used by the operating system to resolve hostnames to IP addresses, allowing users to access websites and other network resources. However, the hosts file can also be used to block access to specific websites or servers, including those used by software installation processes.
In the case of SolidWorks, a popular computer-aided design (CAD) software, the installation process may be blocked by modifying the hosts file. This can be useful in environments where SolidWorks is not allowed to be installed or used, such as in a company with strict software usage policies.
How to block SolidWorks installation using the hosts file
To block the SolidWorks installation using the hosts file, follow these steps:
What happens when you block SolidWorks installation
When you modify the hosts file to block SolidWorks installation, the following occurs:
Workarounds and limitations
While blocking SolidWorks installation using the hosts file can be effective, there are some workarounds and limitations to consider:
In conclusion, modifying the hosts file can be a simple and effective way to block SolidWorks installation on a computer or network. However, it is essential to consider the potential workarounds and limitations to ensure that the desired level of control is achieved.
If you are looking for the specific entries to add to your Windows hosts file to prevent SOLIDWORKS from communicating with license validation servers during an installation or startup, you typically use the following lines. Hosts File Entries
To block these connections, copy and paste the following text into your hosts file:
127.0.0.1 im.solidworks.com
127.0.0.1 ext-im.solidworks.com
127.0.0.1 activate.solidworks.com
127.0.0.1 ext-activate.solidworks.com
127.0.0.1 standard.solidworks.com Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard How to Edit the File Open Notepad as Administrator
: Search for "Notepad" in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as Administrator Navigate to the Folder File > Open and paste this path: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
Note: Change the file type filter in the bottom right from "Text Documents ( .txt)" to "All Files ( )" to see the file.* Open 'hosts' : Select the file named (it has no extension). Add the Text Solution 2: Reset the Host File to Default
: Scroll to the bottom, paste the entries above on new lines, and save the file. Rackspace Technology
Blocking these hosts is often done to bypass "Checking for Updates" delays or for troubleshooting license manager connectivity in private networks. If you are experiencing an "Installation failed" error, you may also need to repair the installation through the Windows Control Panel. Are you trying to resolve a specific error code during the installation process?