How Does SolidWorks Licensing Work?

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How Does SolidWorks Licensing Work?

If you’re new to SolidWorks, understanding how its licensing works is essential. SolidWorks is a powerful 3D modeling software widely used in industries such as engineering, manufacturing, and product design. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of SolidWorks licensing and explore the different options available.

1. Types of Licenses

SolidWorks offers various licensing options to cater to different user requirements. Here are the most common types:

  • Stand-alone License: A stand-alone license is tied to a specific computer or user. It allows for full access to SolidWorks on that machine without the need for network connectivity.
  • Network License: A network license allows multiple users to share a pool of licenses over a network.

    This type of license requires a connection to a license server.

  • Student License: SolidWorks provides discounted or free licenses for students and educational institutions. These licenses usually have limitations on commercial use.

2. Subscription Services

In addition to the base license, SolidWorks offers subscription services that provide additional benefits and updates. Here’s what you can expect from these services:

  • Maintenance: Maintenance services include technical support, access to service packs and updates, as well as entitlement to new versions released during the subscription period.
  • Term Licensing: Term licenses are short-term subscriptions that allow users to access SolidWorks for a specific duration, typically three months or one year.

3. License Activation

To start using SolidWorks, you need to activate your license. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Install SolidWorks: Download and install the SolidWorks software on your computer.
  2. Launch SolidWorks: Open SolidWorks and select “Activate Licenses” from the Help menu.
  3. Enter Serial Number: Enter the serial number provided with your license purchase.
  4. Select License Type: Choose the appropriate license type based on your setup (stand-alone or network).
  5. Activate License: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the activation process.

4. License Transfer

If you need to transfer your SolidWorks license from one computer to another, follow these steps:

  1. Deactivate License: On the computer with the active license, open SolidWorks and select “Transfer Licenses” from the Help menu. Deactivate the license.
  2. Install SolidWorks on New Computer: Install SolidWorks on the new computer where you want to transfer the license.
  3. Select “Transfer Licenses”: Launch SolidWorks on the new computer and select “Transfer Licenses” from the Help menu.
  4. Select License to Transfer: Choose the deactivated license from Step 1 for transfer.
  5. Complete Transfer: Follow the instructions provided to complete the license transfer process.

In Conclusion

SolidWorks licensing offers flexibility and scalability for users of all types. Whether you’re an individual user or part of a large organization, SolidWorks has licensing options to suit your needs. By understanding the various license types and subscription services, as well as the activation and transfer processes, you can make the most out of this powerful 3D modeling software.