Solid Edge Composite Hostid (CID) changing when switching WiFi networks

When using a laptop as a floating license server then whenever changing WiFi networks the license is no longer valid because the linked composite hostid (CID) has changed. Why does the CID change and how to prevent this?

Modern wireless network adapters and operating systems employ functionality known as MAC randomization. MAC randomization is used as a security feature to prevent hijacking and spoofing attempts over WiFi networks. For more on MAC randomization see the external resource - https://www.kandji.io/apple-mdm-definitions/mac-address-randomization/ 

MAC randomization works by generating a new random anonymous MAC address every time the laptop is connected to a new wireless network.

Because the CID used for licensing is linked to the operating system MAC address , the use of MAC randomization will cause the CID to also change every time the laptop is connected to a new wireless network thereby making the license file invalid and preventing the user from being able to run software.

It is possible to overcome this MAC randomization and the changing CID for the license file by either disabling MAC randomization on the operating system or tie the license to a non-wireless network adapter because non-wireless adapters do not employ MAC randomization.

Note: Before disabling MAC randomization check with your IT support team as it is a potential security concern.

On Windows 11 you can disable MAC randomization by turning off “Random hardware addresses” on the operating system through “Settings > Network & internet > WiFi”

If there is no physical wired network adapter available to tie the license to then it is possible to create a virtual network adapter and tie the license to the virtual adapter instead.

If you have further inquiries about Solid Edge Floating Licensing please refer to the FAQs collection link below:

Solid Edge Floating License FAQs Collection