Fixing "SolidWorks host file block" issues typically involves unblocking the Windows hosts file from security software or manually editing it to resolve server connection problems. This common technical hurdle often prevents SolidWorks PDM or license managers from communicating with their servers. Common Causes for Host File Blocks
If the file remains inaccessible even after disabling security blocks: Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc . Right-click the file and select Properties . solidworks host file block fix
: The hosts file may be set to "Read-only" or requires administrative privileges to modify. Right-click the file and select Properties
After unblocking and editing the hosts file, verify the connection using the PDM Connectivity Test Tool or by attempting to ping the server by name in the Command Prompt. If the connection still fails, check if the or SolidWorks Licensing Service are running and set to Automatic in Windows Services. If the connection still fails, check if the
: Search for Notepad in the Start Menu, right-click it, and select Run as Administrator .
For SolidWorks PDM or network licenses to work when DNS fails, you must manually point the machine to the correct server IP.
Before editing, ensure your security suite is not actively blocking access to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts .