By default, Notepad only displays .txt files, making the folder look empty. In the bottom-right corner of the Open dialog box, change the dropdown menu from to All Files ( . ) .
Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc , right-click the hosts file, select , and uncheck Read-only .
Change the file type dropdown menu in the bottom right corner from Text Documents ( .txt)* to .
To fix the SOLIDWORKS host file block issue, follow these steps: solidworks host file block fix
Furthermore, malicious antivirus software and "PUP" (Potentially Unwanted Program) cleaners sometimes see leftover entries from old cracks and "fix" them by blocking SolidWorks altogether. Suddenly, your legit license is broken by a ghost from the past.
The Windows Hosts file acts as a local directory map for your computer. It translates human-readable web addresses into numerical IP addresses before your system queries the public internet. By adding specific entries to this file, you can manually route SolidWorks traffic directly to the correct server paths, bypassing network blocks and DNS filtration. Step-by-Step: SolidWorks Hosts File Fix
Open the , type cmd , right-click Command Prompt , and select Run as administrator . By default, Notepad only displays
Modifying the Hosts file requires administrative privileges. Follow these steps precisely to avoid disrupting other network operations. Step 1: Open Notepad as Administrator Click the Windows menu. Type Notepad into the search bar. Right-click on Notepad and select Run as administrator . Step 2: Navigate to the Hosts Directory Inside Notepad, click File in the top menu and select Open .
Change the file type dropdown from "Text Documents ( .txt)" to **"All Files ( .*)"**. Select the hosts file and click Open . 3. Remove Blocked Entries
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. Suddenly, your legit license is broken by a
The "Host File Block" fix is a It is highly effective for a specific problem (the "SolidWorks SolidNetwork License Manager cannot connect to the server" error), but it introduces maintenance headaches and potential security risks.
Right-click on the Notepad application from the search results. Select .
SolidWorks background processes (e.g., sldworks_fs.exe , SWLicensingService ) periodically check in with Dassault Systèmes’ activation servers. By editing the hosts file, you redirect those server names to a dead end (usually 127.0.0.1 – your own computer).