Editing the host file acts as a "local firewall." It tells your computer to ignore specific internet addresses. In the context of SketchUp, this is often used to:
Windows Defender or third-party AV sometimes resets the Hosts file. Add your C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts file to your Antivirus exclusion list.
Q: Is editing the Hosts file illegal? A: Editing the Hosts file itself is not illegal; it is a standard network administration tool. However, using it to bypass paid software licensing may violate Trimble's terms of service.
Q: Will this work for SketchUp 2024 or 2025? A: Trimble has moved many checks to certificate-based validation. The Hosts file method works best for SketchUp Make 2017 and older Pro versions (2019 and earlier). Newer versions may store a local cache of the license status.
Q: How do I undo this?
A: Simply reopen the Hosts file, delete the lines you added (the ones starting with 127.0.0.1 sketchup.com), save the file, and reboot.
Q: Does this work for SketchUp Free (Web Version)? A: No. The web version runs entirely in your browser. You would have to block it via browser extensions or your router, but the web version is already free.
The fluorescent lights of the architectural firm "Apex & Draw" hummed in a monotonous key that matched the tapping of Bradley’s pencil. Bradley was the firm's senior drafter, a man who loved clean lines and even cleaner budgets.
The firm had just landed the contract for the new city library, but there was a catch: the partners had decided to "optimize costs." This meant the expensive, networked licenses for the industry-standard 3D modeling software were gone. In their place, they expected Bradley to find a "solution."
"Bradley," Mr. Henderson, the managing partner, had said with a slick smile, "I need you to block the old licensing costs. We’re going agile. Find a way to make the models happen for free."
Bradley knew exactly what Henderson meant, even if he didn't say it. Henderson wanted him to pirate software. But Bradley was a creature of habit and a stickler for the rules. He wasn't going to risk his career over a malware-laden crack file. He was, however, going to use his technical know-how to bend the rules of the system itself.
The solution, Bradley decided, was SketchUp. Specifically, the older, web-based version that used to be free. The problem was that modern commercial accounts were constantly pestered by "host file checks"—digital handshakes that verified if a user was on a paid license or a trial.
"If I can just block the verification," Bradley muttered to his dual monitors, "I can run the legacy mode indefinitely without triggering the paywall pop-ups."
He cracked his knuckles. It was time to edit the Hosts file.
For the non-technical, the Hosts file is the local address book of a computer. It tells the computer where to find a website before it even asks the internet. If you tell the computer that the "verification server" lives at a dead-end address (127.0.0.1), the computer blocks the check, and the software assumes the network is just down.
Bradley opened his text editor with administrative privileges. He navigated to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.
He typed with surgical precision, adding the lines that would effectively blind his machine to SketchUp’s licensing servers.
127.0.0.1 skpLicenseManager.sketchup.com
127.0.0.1 api.sketchup.com
127.0.0.1 3dwarehouse.sketchup.com
He saved the file. "Block successful," he whispered.
He launched the application. It loaded. The splash screen glowed. The familiar interface appeared, devoid of the "Start Trial" or "Sign In" banners that usually plagued unpaid versions. He had successfully created a sandboxed environment where the software ran on his local machine, blissfully unaware that it wasn't connected to the paid mother-ship.
For three days, Bradley worked like a man possessed. He modeled the library’s brutalist columns, the sweeping glass atrium, and the intricate reading nooks. He downloaded free textures and blocked the warehouse server so it wouldn't pester him for login credentials. It was the perfect crime of efficiency.
On the fourth day, the meeting arrived.
Bradley set up the projector in the conference room. Mr. Henderson sat at the head of the table, flanked by the client—a stern woman named Ms. Vance, who represented the city council.
"Now," Henderson said, gesturing grandly to the blank screen. "Bradley will show you the future of our library. Zero overhead, maximum output."
Bradley clicked the icon to open the model.
Because he had been so aggressive with his Host file edits to block the license checks, he had also inadvertently blocked the asset servers. Furthermore, he had blocked the authentication required to run certain high-end rendering plugins he had 'borrowed' to make the presentation look good.
The software opened.
Instead of the photorealistic, sun-drenched library Ms. Vance was expecting, the screen displayed a grey, void-like box. Because the texture servers were blocked, the bricks were a default hot pink. Because the 3D Warehouse was blocked, the furniture he had hot-linked hadn't loaded.
Worst of all, the rendering engine couldn't phone home to verify its license. A giant, watermarked text splashed across the center of the projection screen in jagged, low-resolution letters:
[ UNLICENSED VERSION - FOR EDUCATIONAL USE ONLY ]
The room fell silent. Ms. Vance squinted at the screen. "Is... is that a pink box?"
Henderson’s smile froze. "Bradley? Where is the glass atrium?"
Bradley frantically minimized the model, realizing his Host file edits had created a local prison rather than a free paradise. He tried to open a browser to show the saved images, but he had blocked a necessary domain in his fervor, causing the browser to lag.
"It appears," Ms. Vance said, her voice cold, "that this 'agile' approach involves hot pink blocks and watermarks."
Mr. Henderson turned a shade of red that matched the untextured walls. "Bradley, I thought you said this was a professional solution."
"It is," Bradley stammered. "It’s just... the local Host file routing is blocking the asset packets—"
"English, Bradley!" Henderson snapped.
Bradley stood up. He realized the "free" workaround had cost him his credibility. He had tried to cheat the system, and the system had simply shown everyone exactly what he was doing.
"I apologize," Bradley said, closing the laptop. "I attempted to block the licensing fees to save the firm money. I edited the system files to bypass the cost."
Ms. Vance stood up. "We hired Apex & Draw for integrity, not for
Blocking SketchUp domains via the hosts file is a common method for preventing the software from communicating with licensing servers or web tools like the 3D Warehouse. This technique is often used to resolve connection hangs or to force a "checked out" license to remain offline. How to Block SketchUp via Hosts File
To block access, you must redirect specific SketchUp domains to a non-existent local IP address ( ).
Open Notepad as Administrator: Search for Notepad, right-click, and select Run as administrator. block sketchup host file free
Open the Hosts File: Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\ and open the file named hosts.
Add the Block Entries: Paste the following lines at the bottom of the file: 0.0.0.0 license1.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license2.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license3.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license4.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license5.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license6.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 app.sketchup.com (for web-based tools)
Save and Replace: Save the file. Ensure it does not have a .txt extension. Critical Domains and Ports
If you are blocking to solve "hanging" issues during startup, SketchUp often attempts to reach these specific points:
This blog post explores how to use the hosts file to manage network connections for SketchUp. While often used for privacy or troubleshooting, modifying system files should be done with care.
Mastering Your Network: How to Block SketchUp Hosts for Free
Whether you're looking to troubleshoot licensing errors, manage bandwidth, or stop unwanted background connections, editing your computer's hosts file is a powerful, free way to gain control. This method acts as a local "blacklist" for your machine, redirecting specific web addresses before they even leave your computer. What is a Hosts File?
Think of the hosts file as your computer's private phone book. When you try to connect to a website or service, your PC checks this file first. By adding a simple line of text, you can tell your computer that a specific address (like a SketchUp update server) doesn't exist, effectively "blocking" it. How to Edit Your Hosts File
The process varies slightly depending on your operating system, but the core principle is the same: mapping a domain to the "invalid" IP address 0.0.0.0 or the "local" address 127.0.0.1. For Windows Users:
Open Notepad as Administrator: Search for "Notepad" in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
Locate the File: Go to File > Open and navigate to:C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.(Tip: Change the file type in the bottom-right corner from "Text Documents (.txt)" to "All Files")*.
Add Your Blocks: Scroll to the bottom and add the addresses you wish to block. For example: 0.0.0.0 license.sketchup.com Save: Press Ctrl + S to save your changes. For Mac Users:
Open Terminal: Use Spotlight (Cmd + Space) and type "Terminal."
Type the Command: Enter sudo nano /etc/hosts and hit Return. You will need to enter your admin password.
Edit: Use the arrow keys to reach the bottom and type your block entries.
Save & Exit: Press Ctrl + O, then Enter to save, and Ctrl + X to exit. Common Uses & Benefits
The screen flickered, casting a pale blue light over Leo’s cramped desk. It was 3:00 AM, and the deadline for his architecture thesis was exactly nine hours away. His laptop groaned under the weight of a massive 3D model, but every time he tried to render the final image, a small, stubborn window popped up: Subscription Expired.
rubbed his eyes. He didn't have the money for a renewal, and he certainly didn't have the time to find a new software. He remembered an old forum post about "blocking the host file" to bypass the activation check. It sounded like a digital secret, a way to make the software believe it was offline and free from the prying eyes of the license server. With trembling fingers, he navigated to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
. He right-clicked the "hosts" file and opened it in Notepad. It felt like breaking into a vault. He typed the lines he’d found online: 127.0.0.1 ://sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 ://sketchup.com
He saved the file, his heart racing. He relaunched SketchUp. The loading bar crawled across the screen. He held his breath.
The "Subscription Expired" window didn't appear. The workspace opened. His model—a sprawling, glass-walled library—bathed in the digital sunlight of the viewport. He had done it. He was "free."
But as he clicked the render button, the fans in his laptop began to scream. The cursor turned into a spinning blue circle. Suddenly, the screen didn't just flicker; it distorted. Bright green pixels bled across his beautiful library. A line of text appeared at the bottom of the screen, one he hadn't typed: Connection Refused. Integrity Compromised.
The "hosts" trick had blocked the license check, but it had also triggered a failsafe. The software wasn't just offline; it was locking down. One by one, the walls of his 3D library began to vanish. The glass ceilings shattered into digital dust. "No, no, no!" Leo whispered, clicking frantically.
The screen went black. A single prompt remained in the center of the darkness:
To recover your work, please connect to a valid network and verify your account.
Leo looked at the clock. 3:15 AM. The "free" shortcut had cost him everything. He realized then that digital walls weren't just there to keep people out; sometimes, they were the only thing holding the roof up. He deleted the lines from the host file, plugged in his ethernet cable, and reached for his credit card. It was time to pay for the foundation he was building his future on. 🛠️ Technical Reality Check
While the story explores the drama of software "cracking," here are the real-world facts: Security Risks
: Modifying host files is often a gateway for malware. Many "free" tutorials online bundle malicious scripts with their instructions. Stability Issues
: Modern software uses "heartbeat" checks. Blocking these often causes the program to crash or disable essential features like 3D Warehouse or Extensions. Legal Alternatives
: For students or hobbyists, there are legitimate ways to use SketchUp: SketchUp for Web : A free, browser-based version for personal projects. SketchUp for Schools
: Free for K-12 educators and students via Google Workspace or Microsoft Education. Trial Periods
: Standard trials offer full functionality for a limited time.
If you're working on a project and need help, I can help you find: Free, open-source alternatives (like Blender or FreeCAD) Official student discount information Troubleshooting for the legitimate SketchUp Free web version How would you like to proceed with your project
How to Block SketchUp Internet Access Using the Hosts File If you are using an older version of SketchUp, like SketchUp Make 2017, you might find that the software frequently tries to "call home" to verify licenses or load web-based components like the 3D Warehouse. For users who prefer to work entirely offline or want to prevent unwanted background connections, modifying your system's hosts file is a powerful, free method to redirect these requests to a dead end. Why Block SketchUp Connections?
Performance: Prevents the software from hanging while it tries to reach unreachable servers.
Privacy: Stops the application from sending usage data back to Trimble.
Offline Stability: Ensures that legacy versions don't get interrupted by "trial expired" or "update required" prompts. Step-by-Step Guide to Editing Your Hosts File
The hosts file acts as a local "address book" for your computer. By mapping SketchUp's web addresses to 0.0.0.0 (a non-existent IP), you effectively block those connections. 1. Locate the File
This article explains how to manage your Windows or Mac host file to block SketchUp’s connection to its licensing and update servers. This is often done to troubleshoot persistent "subscription expired" pop-ups, prevent automatic updates that may break plugins, or manage connectivity in offline environments. How to Block SketchUp in the Host File (Windows & Mac)
If you need to prevent SketchUp from communicating with its home servers, the most effective method is through the system host file. By redirecting SketchUp’s specific URLs to a "null" address (127.0.0.1), you can effectively cut off its internet access without disabling your entire Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection. Why Block SketchUp via Host Files?
Prevent Auto-Updates: Stop SketchUp from forcing version updates that might be incompatible with your current extensions. Editing the host file acts as a "local firewall
Offline Stability: Stop the software from attempting to verify licenses or fetch "3D Warehouse" data if you are working in a secure, air-gapped environment.
Avoid Nagware: Reduce the frequency of pop-up notifications regarding subscription status or promotional offers. Step 1: Locating Your Host File
The host file is a protected system file. You cannot simply double-click and save it; you must open it with Administrator Privileges. For Windows Users: Click the Start menu and type "Notepad." Right-click Notepad and select Run as Administrator. In Notepad, go to File > Open. Navigate to: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
Change the file type dropdown from "Text Documents (*.txt)" to "All Files". Select the file named hosts and click Open. For Mac Users: Open Terminal (Cmd + Space, then type Terminal). Type the following command: sudo nano /private/etc/hosts
Enter your Mac password (it will not show as you type) and hit Enter. Step 2: The Lines to Add
Once the file is open, scroll to the very bottom. You will need to add the specific SketchUp domains. To "block" them, you point them to the local loopback address 127.0.0.1.
Copy and paste the following lines at the end of the document:
127.0.0.1 ://sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 ://sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 ://sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 ://sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 ://sketchup.com Use code with caution.
Note: Depending on your version (2021, 2022, 2023, or 2024), you may also need to block ://sketchup.com. Step 3: Saving Changes
Windows: Simply go to File > Save. If it asks you to save as a .txt file, you did not run Notepad as an administrator.
Mac: Press Ctrl + O to write the changes, then Enter to confirm, and Ctrl + X to exit. Step 4: Flush Your DNS (Optional but Recommended)
Sometimes your computer remembers (caches) the old connection. To make the block instant, clear your cache. Windows: Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig /flushdns. Mac: In Terminal, type sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder. Important Considerations
3D Warehouse Access: By blocking these lines, you will no longer be able to download models directly inside SketchUp. You will have to unblock them or download models via a web browser and import them manually.
Plugin Issues: Some plugins require an internet handshake to function. If your extensions stop working, you may need to remove the extensionwarehouse line from your host file.
Legality: Always ensure you are using software according to the Terms of Service provided by Trimble. This guide is for educational and troubleshooting purposes for users managing their network environments.
Summary: Blocking SketchUp in the host file is a free and effective way to gain total control over your software's connectivity. By following the steps above, you can enjoy a more stable, distraction-free modeling experience.
To block SketchUp from communicating with its licensing or update servers via the hosts file, you can add specific domains and redirect them to your local loopback address (127.0.0.1). 1. Locate the Hosts File The file location depends on your operating system: Windows: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts macOS / Linux: /etc/hosts 2. Common SketchUp Domains to Block
Open your hosts file with Administrator/Root privileges in a text editor (like Notepad or TextEdit) and add the following lines at the bottom:
127.0.0.1 accounts.sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 3dwarehouse.sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 extensionwarehouse.sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 license.sketchup.com 127.0.0.1 checkin.sketchup.com Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard 3. Verification and Troubleshooting
Permissions: If you cannot save the file, ensure you launched your text editor as an Administrator. On Windows, you can also right-click the hosts file > Properties > Security to check write permissions.
Effects: Blocking these domains will disable the 3D Warehouse, Extension Warehouse, and online license verification.
Alternative: If you are using SketchUp Free (web-based), this method will not work as the application runs entirely within your browser and requires an active internet connection.
Blocking SketchUp's connection via the hosts file or Windows Firewall is a common method used to troubleshoot licensing issues , prevent unwanted telemetry , or manage network-bound assets . This can be done for free using built-in system tools. 1. Identify Necessary Host Domains
To block SketchUp's outgoing requests, you typically need to target its primary communication domains. While specific lists can vary by version, common domains to block include: *.sketchup.com client.sketchup.com
Specific IPs identified for licensing: 34.218.95.16, 52.10.114.51, 35.155.75.69, and 52.40.227.59 . 2. Modify the Windows Hosts File
The hosts file is a local text file that maps hostnames to IP addresses, overriding DNS . File Location: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts . Editing Procedure:
Search for Notepad in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator .
Open the file at the path above (you may need to change the file type filter to "All Files") . Add the following lines at the bottom of the file: 0.0.0.0 sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 www.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 client.sketchup.com .
Save the file and restart your browser or computer to apply changes . 3. Alternative: Block via Windows Firewall
To block SketchUp from communicating with its servers for free, you can manually edit your computer's hosts file
. This file acts as a local "address book" that overrides external internet requests, effectively cutting off the application's ability to "call home" for license checks or updates. Step-by-Step: Editing the Hosts File Open Notepad as Administrator Search for in your Start menu. Right-click it and select Run as administrator Locate the File In Notepad, go to File > Open Navigate to: C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc
Change the file type in the bottom-right corner from "Text Documents ( .txt)" to **All Files ( .*)** so you can see the Add Block Entries Scroll to the very bottom of the file. Add the following lines (replace if preferred): 0.0.0.0 sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 www.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 trimble.com 0.0.0.0 www.trimble.com Save and Close Save the file ( ) and exit Notepad. Why This Method is Used Privacy & Security
: Prevents the software from reporting anonymous usage data or making registry changes during license verification. Connection Stability
: Sometimes used in managed corporate environments to prevent the internal Chromium browser from causing "Bugsplats" or slow startups due to proxy issues. : This is a built-in Windows tool and is entirely free.
: If the block doesn't seem to work immediately, your browser or system may be using DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH)
, which can bypass the hosts file. You may need to disable this in your browser settings. CurrentWare Are you experiencing a specific connection error performance issue in SketchUp that you're trying to resolve? HOSTS File 101: Solid Site Blocking Tool - Dong Knows Tech
Unlocking the Power of SketchUp: A Comprehensive Guide to Blocking Host Files and Enhancing Your Design Experience
As a designer, architect, or engineer, you're likely no stranger to the popular 3D modeling software, SketchUp. With its intuitive interface and robust features, SketchUp has become an industry standard for creating detailed models and designs. However, have you ever encountered issues with the software's performance or encountered errors while working on a project? One potential culprit could be the host file, a critical system file that can sometimes cause problems. In this article, we'll explore the concept of blocking SketchUp host files and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it for free.
Understanding the Host File
Before we dive into the process of blocking SketchUp host files, it's essential to understand what a host file is and its role in your system. A host file, also known as the hosts file, is a system file that maps hostnames to IP addresses. It's used by your operating system to resolve domain names into IP addresses, allowing you to access websites and online services.
The host file is a plain text file located in the root directory of your operating system, typically at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts on Windows or /etc/hosts on macOS and Linux. The file contains a list of entries, each consisting of an IP address and a hostname, separated by spaces. Windows Defender or third-party AV sometimes resets the
Why Block SketchUp Host Files?
So, why would you want to block SketchUp host files? There are several reasons:
Methods to Block SketchUp Host Files
There are several methods to block SketchUp host files, and we'll explore two approaches:
Method 1: Editing the Host File
To block SketchUp host files, you can edit the host file directly. Here's how:
Method 2: Using a Hosts File Editor
Alternatively, you can use a hosts file editor to block SketchUp host files. There are several free tools available, such as:
These tools provide a simple and intuitive way to block or edit host files without requiring technical expertise.
Blocking SketchUp Host Files for Free
If you're looking for a free solution to block SketchUp host files, here are some options:
Additional Tips and Tricks
In addition to blocking SketchUp host files, here are some additional tips and tricks to enhance your SketchUp experience:
Conclusion
Blocking SketchUp host files can be a simple yet effective way to resolve licensing issues, improve performance, and prevent unwanted connections. By following the methods outlined in this article, you can easily block or edit your host file for free. Remember to always exercise caution when editing system files, and consider using a hosts file editor to simplify the process. With these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to unlocking the full potential of SketchUp and taking your designs to the next level.
FAQs
Q: What is a host file, and what is its purpose? A: A host file is a system file that maps hostnames to IP addresses, allowing your operating system to resolve domain names into IP addresses.
Q: Why would I want to block SketchUp host files? A: You may want to block SketchUp host files to resolve licensing issues, improve performance, or prevent unwanted connections.
Q: How do I block SketchUp host files for free? A: You can block SketchUp host files for free by editing the host file directly or using a free hosts file editor.
Q: What are some additional tips and tricks for enhancing my SketchUp experience? A: Regularly update your software, use a robust antivirus, and clear your cache and cookies to ensure a smooth SketchUp experience.
While blocking SketchUp's internet access via the hosts file is possible, it is often unreliable for total internet isolation . Instead, using the Windows Defender Firewall is the most effective and straightforward method. Option 1: Using Windows Firewall (Recommended)
This method is reliable because it blocks the specific application executable regardless of the domain it tries to reach. Super User Open Firewall Settings : Search for "Firewall" in your Start menu and select Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security Create Outbound Rule Outbound Rules from the left panel, then click
How to Block SketchUp in Your Hosts File for Free Managing how applications like SketchUp communicate with the internet can be essential for troubleshooting license activation issues, preventing unwanted updates, or securing your local network. One of the most effective and free ways to control these connections is by editing your computer's hosts file. Why Block SketchUp via the Hosts File?
The hosts file acts as a local phonebook for your computer, mapping domain names (like license1.sketchup.com) to specific IP addresses. By redirecting SketchUp's servers to an invalid address (like 0.0.0.0), you can:
Prevent Automatic Updates: Stop the software from checking for new versions without your consent.
Troubleshoot Licensing Errors: Sometimes, blocking specific licensing URLs helps in environments where a proxy or firewall is causing "online" detection issues.
Enhance Privacy: Limit the background data sent to Trimble servers during launch. Step-by-Step Guide: Blocking SketchUp on Windows
On Windows 10 and 11, the hosts file is protected and requires administrative privileges to edit. Open Notepad as Administrator: Press the Windows Key and type "Notepad". Right-click it and select Run as administrator. Navigate to the Hosts File: In Notepad, go to File > Open.
Paste this path into the address bar: %SystemRoot%\System32\drivers\etc.
Change the file type dropdown from "Text Documents (.txt)" to **All Files (.*)** to see the hosts file. Add Blocking Entries:
Scroll to the bottom and add the URLs you wish to block, preceded by 0.0.0.0. Common SketchUp Domains to Block: 0.0.0.0 license1.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license2.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license3.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license4.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license5.sketchup.com 0.0.0.0 license6.sketchup.com Save and Replace:
Save the file (Ctrl + S). If prompted, ensure you are replacing the original file in the etc folder. How to Block SketchUp on macOS
Open Terminal: Use Spotlight (Cmd + Space) to search for "Terminal". Edit the File: Type sudo nano /etc/hosts and press Enter. Enter your admin password.
Insert Lines: Use the arrow keys to go to the bottom and paste the same 0.0.0.0 entries listed above.
Save: Press Ctrl + O to write the changes, then Enter, and Ctrl + X to exit. Alternative Method: Using Windows Firewall
If the hosts file feels too technical, you can use the built-in Windows Defender Firewall to block the SketchUp.exe file directly.
Note: These steps are shown to explain the mechanism. They should only be applied to software you own or have explicit permission to modify.
Many users search for ways to "block SketchUp host file free" to prevent the software from "phoning home"—connecting to Trimble’s license validation servers. This technique is commonly discussed in forums as a method to extend trial periods or prevent license deactivation. This write-up explains what the hosts file is, how blocking works, and the practical steps to do it, while also outlining the risks and legal context.
Open your web browser. Try to visit http://license.sketchup.com. If the page does not load (connection refused or timed out), you have successfully blocked it for free. Now open SketchUp. The nag screens should disappear, and any "phone home" features should fail silently.
You need to add specific lines to the bottom of the file. The standard format is:
[IP Address] [Domain Name]
Typically, 127.0.0.1 is used to block a site (it redirects the request back to your own computer).
Common SketchUp Related Domains: Copy and paste the following lines at the very bottom of your open host file:
# Block SketchUp Licensing Servers
127.0.0.1 auth.sketchup.com
127.0.0.1 api.sketchup.com
127.0.0.1 3dwarehouse.sketchup.com
127.0.0.1 extensionwarehouse.sketchup.com
127.0.0.1 help.sketchup.com
127.0.0.1 learn.sketchup.com
(Note: The # symbol creates a comment. It helps you remember what you added later. You can leave that line out if you prefer.)
