Change the file type filter (bottom right) from "Text Documents ( .txt)" to **"All Files ( Select the file and click 3. Adding the Blocks
In a legitimate IT context, editing the hosts file is a standard troubleshooting step. For example, if a VPN connection is causing slow or failed lookups for a SolidWorks PDM (Product Data Management) server, an administrator can add a direct IP-to-name mapping to bypass the DNS delay. This use case is fully compliant and recommended for specific, temporary scenarios.
Modern Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) platforms and antivirus software strictly monitor the integrity of the Windows hosts file. Unauthorized or automated changes to this file are a common tactic of malware (DNS hijacking). Manually editing the file may trigger high-severity security alerts within an enterprise IT network. Alternative Solutions for Enterprise Management
Using a modified hosts file to bypass license checks constitutes software piracy. The EULA for SolidWorks explicitly grants the user the right to use the software only under specific, paid conditions. Bypassing these checks is a breach of contract. Furthermore, it is a violation of the DMCA, which prohibits circumventing “a technological measure that effectively controls access to a work”. Legal actions have been filed against individuals and companies for using similar bypass methods, including the use of tools like “SolidSquad (SSQ)”. Solidworks Host File Block
Are you working on a or a standalone personal computer?
SolidWorks (and its background services like SW Licensing Service, SolidWorks FlexNet Server, and Publisher) makes outbound HTTP/HTTPS calls to specific Dassault Systèmes domains.
| Category | Solution | Key Features & Benefits | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | SolidWorks for Makers | A full-featured version for non-commercial hobbyist use at a very low annual subscription cost. | | | SolidWorks for Students & Educators | Free or heavily discounted licenses for eligible students and educators for learning purposes. | | | Network Licensing (SNL) | For businesses, the SolidNetWork License (SNL) allows multiple users to share a pool of licenses, which is a cost-effective and compliant way to scale up. | | Free CAD Alternatives | FreeCAD | An open-source, parametric 3D modeler. It is widely regarded as the best free alternative to SolidWorks for professional-level modeling. | | | Fusion 360 for Personal Use | A cloud-based CAD/CAM tool offered for free by Autodesk for hobbyists and non-commercial users. | | | Solid Edge Community Edition | A professional-grade, fully featured CAD software available for free to makers and hobbyists. | | | Onshape Free Plan | A cloud-native CAD platform with a free plan for non-commercial users. | | | Tinkercad | A simple, browser-based 3D design and modeling tool, perfect for beginners and educational use. | Change the file type filter (bottom right) from
Antivirus programs like SentinelOne , ZoneAlarm , and Webroot may lock the host file to prevent malicious changes, which inadvertently stops legitimate network troubleshooting. Step-by-Step: How to Unblock and Configure the Host File
By explicitly linking the name and IP, you eliminate the "guesswork" for your computer. This is especially helpful in WAN environments or when local firewalls/DNS settings are being overprotective and "blocking" the standard handshake between your machine and the . Pro-Tips for Success
Below is the consolidated list of domains that SolidWorks typically communicates with. To implement the block, you must map all of these to 127.0.0.1 . This use case is fully compliant and recommended
While often viewed as a "block," this is usually a that can be bypassed by manually configuring the Windows hosts file to act as a local directory. Understanding the Host File "Block"
: Ensure you have local Windows Administrator credentials, or you won't be able to save your changes.