Blocking SolidWorks installations or license activation via the hosts file is a method some administrators use to prevent unauthorized activation or to stop SolidWorks from contacting specific network license servers or online activation servers. Below is a concise, practical overview covering what it is, why and when it’s used, how it’s done, the risks and limitations, and safer alternatives.
In Notepad, go to File > Open and navigate to:C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\ solidworks host file block install
in the Installation Manager (which often looks like a block), it is usually caused by Windows blocking extracted HTML files. : Navigate to \sldim\lang\english\HTML\ in your installation folder. Right-click frameset.html Properties , and click if the button is visible. MLC CAD Systems Summary Table: Resolution Methods Potential Cause Primary Fix Server Connection Failed DNS resolution failure Add IP/Hostname to Hosts file Blank Install Screen Windows security blocking HTML frameset.html in properties Multi-site PDM Issues Cross-domain communication Standardize name resolution in Hosts file Open File Explorer
Blog Post: How to Fix SolidWorks Installation Blocks via the Hosts File This guide is for informational purposes only
Introduction: The Perpetual Licensing Dilemma
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts (no extension). You might also see hosts.ics or lmhosts.sam—ignore those.hosts file, copy it, and paste it to your desktop. This is your backup.This guide is for informational purposes only. Always comply with your software licensing agreement.
Navigate to the following directory: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\.
ping activation.solidworks.com