Block Install | Solidworks Host File

Install SolidWorks inside a VM that has no virtual network adapter.

The mechanism is deceptively simple. The Hosts file is a local plain-text file that maps domain names to IP addresses before the computer queries external Domain Name System (DNS) servers. By editing this file, a user can redirect SolidWorks’ validation domains (e.g., solidworks.com or specific sw.activation servers) to the local loopback address 127.0.0.1 . Consequently, when the installed SolidWorks application attempts to "phone home" to verify its license key, it finds only itself. The connection fails, and the software, believing the server is unreachable rather than blocked, proceeds to run in an offline, activated state.

The most common error when editing the hosts file. : Notepad (or your text editor) was not launched with administrator privileges. Solution : Completely close your text editor, then right-click its icon and select "Run as administrator" before opening and editing the hosts file again. solidworks host file block install

The Strategic Use of Host File Modification in SOLIDWORKS Installations

The hosts file is a system file used to map hostnames to IP addresses. It can be used to block or redirect access to specific websites or servers. In this write-up, we will explore how to block the installation of SolidWorks by modifying the hosts file. Install SolidWorks inside a VM that has no

: 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

If you configure this file to point a specific SOLIDWORKS web domain to a dummy or local IP address, the computer will attempt to route the traffic there instead of connecting over the live internet. This method is highly useful for: By editing this file, a user can redirect

By mapping these domains to 127.0.0.1 in the Windows etc/hosts file, the installation manager immediately skipped the online check and allowed the install to proceed from local files.