If you are receiving "Cannot find license file" or "License server down" errors (Error -15,10,10061), a rogue entry in your hosts file might be the culprit.
Before proceeding, this article will explain how blocking via the HOSTS file works, why it is done, and the significant legal and security risks involved. This information is provided for educational purposes only regarding how software licensing functions. Solidworks Host File Block
Are you running any software like CrowdStrike, SentinelOne, or Windows Defender GPOs? If you are receiving "Cannot find license file"
Right-click on the Notepad application icon and select . Step 2: Open the Hosts File In Notepad, click File > Open . Are you running any software like CrowdStrike, SentinelOne,
Here is the standard method for modifying your hosts file:
The practice of using a “Solidworks Host File Block” to bypass license validation is a high-risk activity with potentially devastating legal and professional consequences. While the Windows hosts file is a valuable tool for legitimate network administration, using it to circumvent software licensing is a direct violation of the law and the software’s EULA.
Select the file named (with no file extension) and click Open . Step 3: Append the Blocking Rules Scroll to the very bottom of the document.