How to Block CorelDRAW from Accessing the Internet: A Comprehensive Guide

CorelDRAW, a powerful vector graphics editor, is a staple in the design world. However, like many software applications today, it often attempts to connect to the internet for various reasons, such as license verification, updates, and cloud-based features. While these connections can sometimes be beneficial, they can also be a source of annoyance for some users, especially those who prefer offline work or who are concerned about data privacy or excessive background resource consumption. Fortunately, there are multiple methods to block CorelDRAW’s internet access, ensuring a smoother, more controlled workflow. This article provides a comprehensive guide detailing various methods you can use to effectively block CorelDRAW from accessing the internet on your Windows computer.

Why Block CorelDRAW’s Internet Access?

Before we delve into the ‘how,’ let’s explore the ‘why.’ There are several compelling reasons why you might want to prevent CorelDRAW from connecting to the internet:

• License Verification: CorelDRAW, particularly subscription-based versions, often require periodic internet connections to verify license validity. If you prefer to avoid such checks or use an older, perpetual license, blocking internet access might be necessary.
• Update Management: While updates usually bring improvements, they can also introduce compatibility issues or unwanted changes. Blocking internet access allows you to control when and if updates are installed.
• Resource Conservation: Background internet activity can consume system resources, impacting performance, particularly on older machines. Blocking connections can free up these resources.
• Privacy Concerns: Some users are wary of software constantly communicating with servers, potentially sending usage data or other information. Blocking internet access mitigates this concern.
• Avoiding Unwanted Cloud Integration: If you prefer to work locally and dislike cloud integration, preventing internet connectivity will keep your files and work process confined to your computer.
• Offline Work Preference: Simply put, some users prefer to work entirely offline for various personal or professional reasons.

Methods to Block CorelDRAW’s Internet Access

Here are several methods you can use to block CorelDRAW from accessing the internet, ranging from simple to more advanced techniques. Choose the method that best suits your technical proficiency and requirements.

Method 1: Using the Windows Firewall

The Windows Firewall is the built-in security system in Windows that allows you to control network traffic to and from your computer. It’s an effective way to block specific applications from accessing the internet.

Steps to Block CorelDRAW using Windows Firewall:

1. Open Windows Firewall with Advanced Security:
   • Press the Windows key, type “Windows Firewall” and select “Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.”
2. Select “Outbound Rules”:
   • In the left pane, click on “Outbound Rules.”
3. Create a New Rule:
   • In the right pane, click on “New Rule…” This will open the “New Outbound Rule Wizard.”
4. Choose “Program”:
   • In the “Rule Type” window, select “Program” and click “Next.”
5. Specify Program Path:
   • In the “Program” window, select “This program path” and click “Browse…”
   • Navigate to the folder where CorelDRAW’s main executable file (usually CorelDRW.exe) is located. The default installation path is typically C:\Program Files\Corel\CorelDRAW Graphics Suite [Year]\Programs. For instance: C:\Program Files\Corel\CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2023\Programs. Select the CorelDRW.exe file and click “Open.”
   • Click “Next.”
6. Block the Connection:
   • In the “Action” window, select “Block the connection” and click “Next.”
7. Choose Profile:
   • In the “Profile” window, select all the checkboxes i.e. “Domain”, “Private”, and “Public” to ensure the rule is applied to all network types, then click “Next”
8. Name the Rule:
   • In the “Name” window, give the rule a descriptive name, for example, “Block CorelDRAW Internet Access.”
   • You can add an optional description.
   • Click “Finish.”

Now, CorelDRAW should be unable to access the internet. You may repeat this process for other executable files belonging to the CorelDRAW suite such as Corel Capture, etc. if required.

Method 2: Blocking CorelDRAW Using Host File

The hosts file is a system file that maps hostnames to IP addresses. By modifying this file, you can redirect CorelDRAW’s attempts to connect to the internet to an invalid or local IP address (like 127.0.0.1), effectively blocking its access.

Steps to Block CorelDRAW using Hosts file:

1. Open Notepad as Administrator:
   • Press the Windows key, type “Notepad,” right-click on the “Notepad” app, and select “Run as administrator.” This step is crucial to make changes to the hosts file.
2. Open the Hosts File:
   • In Notepad, click “File” > “Open.”
   • Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.
   • In the open dialog, select “All Files (*.*)” from the dropdown menu at the bottom.
   • Select the “hosts” file (without any extension) and click “Open.”
3. Add Entries to Block CorelDRAW Servers:
   • At the end of the file, add the following lines, each on a new line, to redirect CorelDRAW connection attempts to your local machine:

       127.0.0.1 apps.corel.com
       127.0.0.1 mc.corel.com
       127.0.0.1 myaccount.corel.com
       127.0.0.1 activation.corel.com
       127.0.0.1 validation.corel.com
       127.0.0.1 www.corel.com
       127.0.0.1 corel.com
       127.0.0.1 cdn.corel.com
       127.0.0.1 coreldraw.com
       127.0.0.1 corel.net
       

   • You may need to add more addresses depending on which Corel servers your version of CorelDRAW attempts to connect to.
4. Save the Hosts File:
   • Click “File” > “Save.”

With these entries in place, CorelDRAW’s connection requests to the specified server addresses will be redirected to your local computer, effectively blocking internet access.

Note: Modifying the hosts file should be done cautiously. Incorrect entries can cause network issues. If something goes wrong, you can always revert to the original state by deleting the lines you added.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Firewall Software

Besides the built-in Windows Firewall, many third-party firewall applications offer more fine-grained control over network access for applications. If you prefer a more advanced solution or have a third-party firewall already installed, this is a suitable option. Some popular options include:

• TinyWall: A free and lightweight firewall focused on ease of use.
• Comodo Firewall: A free, feature-rich firewall with intrusion prevention and application behavior analysis.
• GlassWire: A paid firewall that provides a visual representation of network activity and allows for granular control.

General Steps for using Third-Party Firewalls

The specific steps may vary slightly based on the software you choose, but the general approach remains the same:

1. Install the Third-Party Firewall: Download and install the chosen third-party firewall.
2. Add a Block Rule for CorelDRAW:
   • Launch your chosen third party firewall application.
   • Navigate to the section where you can manage application-specific network rules.
   • Find a button or option to “Add application” or “Create a new rule”.
   • Browse to the location of CorelDRAW’s main executable (CorelDRW.exe) file.
   • Select the option to block the program from accessing the internet. This is often presented as a ‘block’ or ‘deny’ option.
   • Save or apply the changes.

After completing these steps, the third-party firewall will prevent CorelDRAW from accessing the internet.

Method 4: Using a Software Restriction Policy (SRP) – Advanced Users

Software Restriction Policies (SRP) are a feature in Windows that allows you to control which software applications can run on your computer. While primarily used for security, it can also be used to block an application’s network access. This method is more complex and intended for advanced users familiar with Group Policy or Local Security Policy editor.

Steps to Block CorelDRAW using SRP:

Note: Software restriction policy are applied at the local machine level by default but can be managed on Domain level using Group Policy. The following instructions assume you’re working on a local machine.

1. Open the Local Security Policy Editor:
   • Press the Windows key, type “secpol.msc”, and hit enter.
2. Navigate to Software Restriction Policies:
   • In the left pane, go to “Security Settings” -> “Local Policies” -> “Software Restriction Policies”.
3. Create a New Software Restriction Policy:
   • If Software Restriction Policies do not exist, right-click in the right panel and click “New Software Restriction Policies”
4. Create a Path Rule to block CorelDRAW:
   • Right-click on “Additional Rules”, and click “New Path Rule…”
   • Browse and select the path of CorelDRW.exe executable file (Typically C:\Program Files\Corel\CorelDRAW Graphics Suite [Year]\Programs)
   • Select “Disallowed” under “Security level” and click OK.

Once the policies are applied, CorelDRAW will not be able to execute. This method, while effective in blocking the entire application, is typically not just used for blocking internet access alone, but also to prevent the software from being launched. You should choose the method most suitable to your level of comfort.

Testing Your Blocked Internet Access

After implementing any of the above methods, you should verify that CorelDRAW is indeed blocked from the internet. Here’s how:

1. Launch CorelDRAW: Open the application as usual.
2. Attempt an Online Feature: Try accessing an online feature, such as cloud storage, online resources or updates. If properly blocked, the attempt should fail with an error message indicating no internet connection or inability to reach the server.
3. Check with a network monitor tool (optional): You can use a network monitoring tool (like the built in Resource Monitor on windows) to see if CorelDRAW is attempting to connect to any servers. If blocked, there will be no network traffic associated with the application.

Reverting the Changes

If at any point you want to allow CorelDRAW to access the internet again, you will need to revert the changes made. The methods to do so are simple:

1. Windows Firewall:
   • Go back to “Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security” and navigate to “Outbound Rules”.
   • Find the rule you created to block CorelDRAW, right-click, and select “Disable Rule” or “Delete”.
2. Hosts File:
   • Open the “hosts” file in Notepad as an administrator.
   • Delete the lines you added for blocking CorelDRAW’s servers.
   • Save the file.
3. Third-Party Firewalls:
   • Launch the application and navigate to the application rules management.
   • Delete the rule related to CorelDRAW or change the permission to allow internet access.
4. Software Restriction Policy:
   • Go back to “Local Security Policy” (secpol.msc).
   • Navigate to “Software Restriction Policies” -> “Additional Rules”.
   • Right click on the rule you created for CorelDRAW and click “Delete”.

Conclusion

Blocking CorelDRAW’s internet access is a manageable task that can greatly improve your workflow if you prefer a local and offline environment. Whether you prefer the simple approach of the Windows Firewall or the more advanced control offered by third-party firewalls or Software Restriction Policies, the methods described in this comprehensive guide will help you effectively disconnect CorelDRAW from the internet while maintaining a smooth and controlled design process. Choosing the right method depends on your preference, technical knowledge, and specific requirements. Always remember to save a backup of any original files before making significant changes, such as modifying the hosts file. By following the steps outlined here, you can achieve a more private and efficient design experience with CorelDRAW.