To resolve these blocks, you must often manually configure the hosts file to bypass failing DNS lookups:

When deploying heavy-duty 3D CAD software like Dassault Systèmes SOLIDWORKS, network configurations and licensing checks are critical components of the process. In enterprise environments, educational institutions, or during the setup of standalone network licenses, system administrators often need to control exactly which servers the application interacts with during and after the installation.

Change the file type filter in the bottom-right corner from "Text Documents ( .txt)" to **All Files ( .*)** to see the hosts file. Select the file named hosts (no extension) and click . 2. Add Block Entries

Malware often modifies the hosts file to redirect your bank to a fake site. If your antivirus sees a modified hosts file, it may flag it as Generic.Malware.Suspicious . You need to add an exception to your AV for C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts .

While the list above covers the basics, a more comprehensive block list can help ensure software cannot phone home. Below is a reference list of domains that are commonly targeted.

# START OF SOLIDWORKS BLOCK LIST # (Installed on: [Date you are doing this])

: If SOLIDWORKS is unable to connect for activation, a new outbound rule may need to be created in the Windows Firewall to "Allow the connection" for the specific program executable.

Every Windows computer (from Windows 7 to Windows 11) contains a plain text file named hosts (no extension). Its job is to map hostnames to IP addresses. Think of it as a local, manual DNS (Domain Name System) list.

If your installation process is restricted by a hosts file block, the SolidWorks Installation Manager will typically exhibit one or more of the following behaviors:

Resolving SolidWorks Installation Failures Caused by Hosts File Blocks