Solidworks Host File Block Fix 90%
To resolve issues where SOLIDWORKS (particularly PDM) cannot connect to a server or where an installation is blocked by the Windows file, follow this guide to modify or unblock the file. 1. Fixing DNS/Connectivity via the Hosts File
- Check for other blocking mechanisms:
- DNS Resolution Failures: The computer cannot translate the server name (e.g.,
@SW_LICENSE_SERVER) into an IP address. - VPN/WAN Issues: Using SolidWorks over a VPN where broadcast signals are blocked.
- Ghosts in the Machine: Windows updates or network adapter changes causing the license manager service to lose its target.
Connectivity Errors
: Getting "Bad Data" errors or unable to log into the PDM vault view despite being on the same network. solidworks host file block fix
Issue 4: The License Server path is wrong
Cause:
The issue is usually caused by the Windows host file ( C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts ) blocking the connection to the SolidWorks license server. To resolve issues where SOLIDWORKS (particularly PDM) cannot
If your Archive and Database servers share one machine, only one line is needed. Save the File: File > Save and close Notepad. 4. Verify the Connection Check for other blocking mechanisms:
2. Malware Disguised as "Activators"
- DNS Resolution Failures: The computer cannot translate the server name (e.g.,