SketchUp license file doesn't exist

Situation: you are using a network version of SketchUp Pro on a PC, and when you start it, this message is displayed:

The server.dat specifies a SketchUp license file that does not exist or is not currently accessible: \\ServerName\ServerFolder\SketchUp#.lf.

This message can be displayed for two reasons. To figure out which reason applies, try to browse to the license folder and view the SketchUp#.lf file:

  1. Open the "Start" menu.
  2. Click "Run."
  3. In the "Open" box, type the location of the license file folder, as it is displayed in the message, for example: \\ServerName\ServerFolder\
  4. Click "OK."

Once you have tried this:

  • If you can browse to the license folder and see the SketchUp#.lf file, it's possible the file has been corrupted. For instructions for how to fix a corrupt file, click here.
  • If you can't browse to the license folder and see the SketchUp#.lf file, it's possible that the server has been renamed or moved. For instructions on how to move a license file to a new or renamed server, click here. In this case, you may need to contact your network administrator for assistance.