Modern Adobe versions use a separate background service. If "unlicensed" pop-ups persist, you may need to disable the AdobeGCClient in your Activity Monitor or delete it from Library/Application Support/Adobe/AdobeGCClient Dynamic IPs:
In nano:
127.0.0.1 cc-api-data.adobe.io 127.0.0.1 guzg78logz.adobe.io 127.0.0.1 prod.adobegenuine.com 127.0.0.1 3dns-2.adobe.com 127.0.0.1 3dns-3.adobe.com hosts file entries to block adobe activation mac better
If you are looking for a "better" solution today, relying solely on the hosts file is insufficient for the latest Creative Cloud versions (2022-2024).
By mapping known activation and telemetry domains to 127.0.0.1 (the local loopback address), you tell macOS that the remote server resides on your own computer. Because your computer cannot fulfill the server requests locally, the connection drops immediately, blocking communication. Complete List of Adobe Activation and Telemetry Domains Modern Adobe versions use a separate background service
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For users who want to remove all Adobe software thoroughly—whether to reinstall correctly or to eliminate licensing issues permanently—Adobe provides the Creative Cloud Cleaner Tool. This official utility removes all Adobe application files, preferences, and licensing data. Running this tool before a fresh installation often resolves persistent licensing problems that hosts file blocking alone cannot address. Because your computer cannot fulfill the server requests
can't uninstall applications manager - fix host file - Adobe Community
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to safely, efficiently, and "better" edit your Mac's hosts file to block Adobe activation, ensuring a smoother workflow. Disclaimer
Blocks all Adobe apps (Photoshop, Premiere, Lightroom, etc.) simultaneously.
If issues persist, restarting your Mac will also clear all DNS caches and force the system to reload the hosts file.