Host File Block [top] — Solidworks

SolidWorks Host File Block

Part 8: How to Remove the SolidWorks Host File Block

If you have a legitimate license or want to clean your system:

1. Open Notepad as Administrator.
2. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.
3. Delete any line that contains solidworks, dasult, geomagic, or 0.0.0.0.
4. Leave the default 127.0.0.1 localhost line intact.
5. Save the file.
6. Run ipconfig /flushdns in Command Prompt.
7. Restart your PC.
8. Run a full antivirus scan (Malwarebytes or Windows Defender Offline).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

For Educational/Student Users

Student editions have watermarks and expiration dates. Blocking the host file does not remove the watermark. It only breaks the license check, causing the software to crash after 30 days. Solidworks Host File Block

1. SolidWorks for Makers ($99/year)

Dassault Systèmes offers a full-featured version for hobbyists and makers. It has a watermark. It cannot open commercial files. But for learning and personal projects, it is $9 a month—cheaper than a pizza. SolidWorks Host File Block Part 8: How to

4. Step-by-Step Implementation (Technical)